Is Crypto Legal in Belize?

Cryptocurrency is not recognized as legal tender in Belize, and virtual currencies remain largely unregulated by the country's financial authorities. The International Financial Services Commission does not regulate or license trading in virtual currencies, meaning that individuals engaging in cryptocurrency transactions have no regulatory recourse or safeguard for losses resulting from such investments (1). Virtual currencies are not issued by any government and are not backed by any asset or issuer, creating significant risks for investors.

The Central Bank of Belize serves as the primary financial regulator overseeing anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing requirements for all financial institutions, including those involved in cryptocurrency activities. Virtual Assets are defined under the Financial Services Commission Act as any digital representation of value that can be digitally traded or transferred (2). The regulatory framework continues to evolve as authorities work to balance innovation with consumer protection and financial stability.

"The IFSC does not regulate or license trading in virtual currencies. Therefore, the public will have no regulatory recourse or safeguard for losses as a result of investments in virtual currencies."

Despite the lack of recognition as legal tender, cryptocurrency transactions are not explicitly prohibited in Belize, though they carry substantial risks due to their anonymous and largely untraceable nature. The government has expressed concerns about the susceptibility of virtual currencies to abuse by criminals and their potential misuse for money laundering and terrorism financing (1). Authorities advise the public to exercise extreme caution when dealing with cryptocurrency exchanges and virtual currency promoters, particularly those lacking physical presence in Belize or verifiable credentials.

Source:
https://www.belizefsc.org.bz/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/14-02-2019-Cryptocurrency-Public-Statement_Final.pdf
https://www.centralbank.org.bz/docs/default-source/2.7-compliance/q2---cbb-aml-highlights-.pdf?sfvrsn=fb0349db_3

Last updated: 18-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.