Is Crypto Legal In Curacao?

Cryptocurrency is legal in Curaçao, operating under anti-money laundering regulations administered by the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. Virtual asset service providers must register with the CBCS for supervisory and AML/CFT purposes following amendments to the National Ordinance on Identification when Rendering Services and the National Ordinance on Reporting of Unusual Transactions, which took effect on May 16, 2024 (1). Non-compliance with these registration requirements may result in legal consequences and sanctions for entities operating cryptocurrency businesses (1).

Curaçao is advancing comprehensive cryptocurrency regulation through the proposed National Ordinance on the Supervision of Virtual Asset Service Providers, which will establish a licensing system overseen by the CBCS. The legislation responds to Financial Action Task Force recommendations and aims to provide legal clarity for businesses dealing with digital currencies including Bitcoin, Tether, and DAI (2). The Advisory Council expedited its review process, with the draft bill scheduled for discussion in a Central Committee meeting of Parliament, marking swift legislative action to meet international standards for combating money laundering and terrorist financing (2).

"The government's Explanatory Memorandum highlights the importance of clear legal frameworks for promoting the safe growth of digital currencies and integrating new technologies into the financial sector."

The current regulatory framework requires virtual asset service providers to implement customer identification procedures, transaction monitoring, and reporting obligations for unusual transactions under existing AML laws. Curaçao operates on a territorial tax system with a 22% corporate income tax rate, though effective rates can be significantly lower for companies earning income outside the jurisdiction (1). The island does not impose capital gains tax on cryptocurrency profits, dividend withholding tax, or value-added tax, though a 7% general sales tax applies to goods and services while crypto transactions generally remain exempt (1).

Source:
https://manimama.eu/cryptolicense/cryptolicense-in-curacao-accessing-the-caribbean-and-latin-american-markets/
https://www.curacaochronicle.com/post/technology/curacao-moves-forward-with-new-legislation-to-regulate-cryptocurrency-service-providers/

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