Is Crypto Legal in Nicaragua?

Cryptocurrencies in Nicaragua are not recognized as legal tender and there is no blanket prohibition against their use or exchange. Instead, digital tokens are treated as “virtual assets” which can be traded or held, provided exchanges and service providers comply with national regulatory requirements (2).

In April 2022, the Central Bank of Nicaragua (BCN) adopted the “Reglamento de los proveedores de tecnología financiera de servicios de pagos y proveedores de servicios de activos virtuales” (Resolution CD-BCN-XXV-1-22), establishing licensing, registration, and operational standards for Virtual Asset Service Providers (PSAV) under Law No. 1072 (2).

"Activo virtual: Es una representación digital de valor que se puede comercializar o transferir digitalmente y se puede utilizar para pagos o inversiones. Los activos virtuales no incluyen representaciones digitales de moneda fíat, valores y otros activos financieros." (1)

In January 2025, the Unidad de Análisis Financiero (UAF) issued specific AML/CFT/CFP norms for PSAV, reinforcing that providers of crypto exchange, custody, transfer, or related services must implement due diligence, reporting, and internal controls in line with Law No. 976 and Law No. 977 (1).

While cryptocurrencies remain outside the official currency regime, their legal circulation through regulated PSAV channels ensures that market participants operate under clear oversight. Prospective users and businesses should verify that service providers hold valid BCN licenses and comply with UAF requirements (1)(2).

Source:
https://www.pgr.gob.ni/PDF/2025/GACETA/GACETA_17_01_2025.pdf
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=d36444eb-fa1e-4fe5-9143-3ecd0b563f76

Last updated: 16-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.