Czechia

#34

Crypto Exchanges & Regulation – Top exchanges in Czechia by Coincub criteria

Country facts

Czechia crypto score

Trade and store crypto

The Czech Republic

Cryptocurrency exchanges and regulation – Top exchanges in the Czech Republic by Coincub criteria.

Country Facts         

Czechia crypto score

• Web3 regulation
• Crypto tax
• Crypto fraud

Can I trade cryptocurrency in Czechia?

Yes. Cryptocurrency is legal in Czech, which means you can buy and sell it and hold it as an investment. However, you must trade and invest in crypto through regulated platforms.

In addition, all crypto providers must be licensed in Czech to operate legally within the country. Cryptocurrency firms that don’t acquire the proper authorization from Czech authorities will have their business services revoked.

Is Bitcoin banned in the Czech Republic?

No. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are not banned in the Czech Republic. While all cryptocurrencies are permissible in the country, the government does not consider them legal currency. Czech authorities classify digital currencies as commodities that users can buy, sell, and trade.

Is Czechia crypto-friendly?

The Czech Republic is one of the most cryptocurrency-friendly countries in Europe. Its capital city, Prague, is ranked as Europe’s second-best crypto-friendly destination, where digital currencies are used most freely.

Czechia stands out for its efforts to embrace and support cryptocurrencies. By being forward-thinking and accepting crypto, Czechia is known as a burgeoning tech hub for emerging technologies and is open to accommodate new talents, innovators, businesses, and cash flows.

The nation has a regulatory framework that governs the use and trading of cryptocurrencies. Crypto businesses and firms offering crypto-related services are subject to compliance with general regulations aimed at the Czech financial market. The country embraces a liberal approach to crypto regulation, allowing for innovation with fast-evolving services and products so long as business entities adhere to all the relevant EU rules.

The Czech Republic’s commitment to blockchain and crypto

The globe is experiencing a rapid digital transformation, and Czechia is at the forefront of this technological revolution. The Czechia government has been proactively promoting blockchain technology – a testimony to their unwavering commitment to it.

In a bold move, the government established a government agency, CzechInvest, in its capital city. The government research facility runs the CzechStarter incubator program, providing educational seminars, expert mentorship, and financial aid to local startups.

The Blockchain Connect Association/Czech Alliance, formed in 2018, also actively promotes the adoption of crypto and blockchain technology and transparent financial solutions. Moreover, the Institute of Cryptoanarchy, backed by Paralelni Polis, remains committed to promoting adoption of a decentralized economy and blockchain products and services in the country. 

Due to its flexible regulatory approach and innovative atmosphere for startups, the Czech Republic attracts blockchain and cryptocurrency companies to operate there. This explains why blockchain firms like Asociace CTIT, Fragments.Network, Signals Network, Baserank, CLEO.one, and more are based in the country.

The country’s tech talent pool ensures the availability of skilled experts to work for these blockchain companies. The nation’s well-developed financial infrastructure also makes integration into the broader financial ecosystem easier.

Lastly, Czechia blockchain startups often engage in international collaboration, developing partnerships and contributing to the global blockchain industry.

Bitcoin and crypto tax in Czechia

The issue of taxation of crypto gains remains a hot topic for several nations, including the Czech Republic. Czechia’s approach to crypto tax thrives to ensure fair taxation while spurring economic growth and attracting new investments.

Basics of Crypto Taxation in Czechia

While the Czech Republic does not consider cryptocurrencies as a legal tender, it recognizes that such commodities are subject to taxation. Taxes are administered and collected by the Tax Offices.

According to existing laws, Czechia imposes a tax on digital assets based on their use. When a virtual currency is mined, no taxable income is made. However, profit is generated only when crypto is sold (when it is exchanged for fiat money), when it is exchanged for services or goods, or when one digital asset is exchanged for another.

Taxation for individuals

If you are trading crypto in Czechia, you will have to pay personal income tax. People trading virtual currency in the nation face a tax rate of 15%. Nevertheless, if total income (including capital gains from business activities and employment) is above the statutory limit (CZK 1,867,728), a tax rate of 23% will apply.

For an individual to pay the tax correctly, they need to:

• Document all crypto transactions: Keeping records of all transactions is essential. This also includes the dates of sale and purchase, the value in the local currency (Czech crown – CZK) at the time of the transaction, and the loss or profit realised.
• Calculate profit: Crypto users must calculate the total profit or loss from all transactions for the tax year to determine the taxable base.
• Tax filing: Individuals must include information about cryptocurrency income in the annual tax return and file it with the tax office.

Taxation for businesses

Businesses engaging in crypto product and service offerings must pay corporate income tax on income generated in Czechia and overseas if they are resident taxpayers. A firm is considered a resident taxpayer if incorporated or has its headquarters in the country.

Nonresident crypto companies operating in the jurisdiction must also pay taxes on income earned. Therefore, businesses trading crypto in Czechia are subject to a corporate income tax rate of 19%.

Taxpayers must do their best to navigate the legislation framework to avoid tax evasion charges. Any company that fails to pay taxes faces a fine of up to 500,000 koruna (around $20,000).

Paying taxes on crypto income requires careful documentation and an understanding of the applicable tax rules. It is vital to keep in mind that tax laws could change. 

Users and business entities are therefore advised to keep up to date with the latest updates and consult a tax expert whenever necessary. This helps ensure compliance with tax regulations and avoid potential penalties for skipping paying crypto taxes or incorrect income declarations.

Crypto tax when moving residency to the Czech Republic

All Czechia residents, citizens, businesses, and foreign individuals and companies transacting cryptocurrency in the Czech Republic are subject to tax laws.

Those who are in Czechia as nonresidents of the country and nonresidents of the EU and transact crypto or earn income from crypto are subject to a tax rate of 35%. That means any profit they make on cryptocurrency is subject to capital gains tax at 35% and must be included on their tax return file.

On the other hand, residents of the Czech Republic and residents of the EU who transact crypto are subject to a tax rate of 15% or 23%, as explained in the personal income tax details above.

Tax on Bitcoin mining in the Czech Republic

With its robust tradition in innovation and engineering, strategic location in the heart of Europe, and strong industrial base, the Czech Republic presents a sophisticated landscape for Bitcoin mining.

Cryptocurrency mining operations in the country are subject to taxation regulations. Income generated from crypto mining is considered as income from business activities and is, therefore, subject to a tax rate of 19%. Miners must also adhere to the EU’s strict AML and KYC rules, which require detailed transparency and reporting.

Crypto financial services in Czechia

Fin services – banking:

About 12% of Czechia’s population has some cryptocurrency investment. Bitcoin is the best-known cryptocurrency in the country, followed by Ethereum, Litecoin, other major cryptocurrencies, and hidden crypto gems.

The number of people who invest in cryptocurrencies has nearly doubled since 2018. Czechia crypto customers say cryptocurrency offers alternative ways of accessing financial freedom and independence.

The volume of trade in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in the Czech Republic rose significantly, fuelled by the increasing value of BTC and a growing demand.

Notable crypto banks that allow people to trade and invest in digital assets in Czechia include Revolut, Swissquote Bank, Saxo Bank, and Nordark, among others.

Fin Services – DeFi

Many Czechia citizens are aware that traditional banking systems are inadequate, leaving people without access to essential financial services like savings accounts, loans, and investment opportunities.

The locals know that cryptocurrencies offer such services through decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms operating on blockchain networks. Reliable DeFi apps like MakerDAO, Compound, AAVE, and others allow Czechia customers to earn interest on their crypto holdings or borrow against them without the need for traditional bank accounts. People can borrow money using their crypto as collateral without worrying about meeting traditional banking requirements.

Czechia residents can borrow money using their crypto as collateral without worrying about meeting traditional banking requirements.

Best 6 DeFi platforms 

Spending Bitcoin and Crypto in Czechia

Czechia is home to around several crypto firms alongside a growing community of friendly merchants and businesses supporting increasing crypto users. Czechia’s diverse international expat environment and the country’s relaxed tax on crypto investments attract such businesses and consumers.

Czechia boasts several areas with beautiful scenery, with its capital remaining one of the most beautiful eastern European cities. The country embraces a friendly regulatory framework that favors crypto users and companies.

The country witnesses rapid crypto adoption because of high user interest in cryptocurrency. Czechia citizens have had a low-key distrust of fiat money because of its volatile history—a reason that influences locals to be quick to adopt private, deregulated currencies.

Prague – the Czech capital – is home to a strong community of cryptocurrency supporters and users. In Prague, inhabitants can purchase practically every goods and services using cryptocurrency. Prague-based SatoshiLabs Group is one of several startups providing various solutions for crypto users.

Prague is well known all over North America and Europe as a party city, which makes it a great place to spend cryptocurrencies on goods and services. This is not surprising, as Prague caters to the needs of younger, more sophisticated global visitors.

The capital is known for its advancements in the everyday use of cryptocurrency. People can buy their shopping, see their moves, and even pay their rent using digital assets.

Bitcoin in Czechia

How to buy Bitcoin in Czechia

Those who want to buy Bitcoin in Czechia can use various ways to acquire the cryptocurrency, directly or indirectly, through exchanges or emerging platforms.

Cryptocurrency exchanges: Several cryptocurrency exchanges have emerged to facilitate the seamless integration of virtual currencies into the Czech economy. Such exchanges act as intermediaries between customers and merchants, enabling businesses to accept cryptocurrencies for goods and services. Here are the top 3 crypto exchanges operating in the Czech Republic.

Financial brokers: Established financial brokers have been quick to recognize the crypto trend and have seamlessly integrated cryptocurrency trading services into their offerings. Here are some of the well-recognized financial brokers that operate in Czechia:

Bitcoin ATMs: Major cities in the Czech Republic, including Prague, Hradec Kralove, Pilsen, Brno, Olomouc, and others, have Bitcoin ATM installations. These Bitcoin ATMs provide a direct option to purchase Bitcoins, although they have higher commission fees than other methods. Some ATMs allow selling and buying transactions, usually with debit cards or cash.

Although cryptocurrency offers the potential for substantial returns, investing in these digital assets carries higher risks due to their volatility. Before investing in these virtual currencies, investors should assess their personal risk tolerance, investment goals, and individual preferences. 

What Bitcoin wallet to use in Czechia

In Czechia, three reputable wallets for storing and managing cryptocurrencies include web, desktop, and hardware wallets.

Web wallets: A web wallet is a wallet provided by a third party, such as a crypto exchange, which stores private keys on a server it controls. Like any other apps, Czech crypto users can simply download a web wallet from the Google Playstore or Appstore.

Web wallets allow users to access their funds quickly and easily anytime, anywhere, as long as they are connected to the internet. The drawbacks of mobile wallets are hacks, malware, fraud, and entrusting your private keys to a third party.

Some of the best web wallets that Czechia crypto users can go for include the following:

Desktop wallets: A desktop wallet is a software that allows crypto users to store their private keys on their computer’s hard drive. These wallets are more secure than mobile wallets, as users don’t rely on a third party to store their private keys. However, desktop wallets still need an internet connection in case users want to access or purchase cryptocurrency.

Choosing the best desktop wallet is essential for efficient and secure crypto storage. Here are the top five desktop wallets that support multiple currencies, boast top security standards, and allow hardware wallet integration.

Hardware wallets: These are physical devices – similar to a large USB key – that crypto users can connect to their computers or smartphones. Hardware wallets are the most secure way of storing crypto as they are disconnected from the internet when not used. When users want to access or buy crypto, they need to connect the hardware wallet to their computer and run software to move the currency. 

The three best hardware wallets that Czechia users can choose to store cryptocurrency securely are Ledger Nano X, Trezor Model T, and Keystone Wallet.

Gifting Bitcoin in Czechia

In the Czech Republic, cryptocurrency is becoming a popular gift. Users can give crypto as gifts to family members and friends or offer as donations to charity organizations and others.

There are no taxes on gifting crypto in the country. However, authorities expect users to file their crypto gifts if their value exceeds a specific limit for transactions in the tax year. It is crucial to consult a tax professional to understand the limit and how to report your crypto gifts to the Tax Offices.

In Czech, the Tax Offices work with centralized exchanges to extract data and track information and identities to combat tax evasion, money laundering, and other criminal activities.

So, if you plan to avoid crypto taxes in Czech, you should know that the government will probably find out, and you may face criminal charges, even if you use decentralized exchanges. The appropriate and intelligent thing to do is to pay all cryptocurrency taxes honestly and accurately.

Crypto regulation in Czechia

With its progressive stance on cryptocurrencies and streamlined regulatory procedures, Czechia has become a hotspot for blockchain and crypto firms.

The Czechia regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies combines domestic rules and legislation from the European Union. The Czech National Bank (CNB) supervises the financial market and cryptocurrencies. The authority subjects cryptocurrencies to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-financing of terrorism (CFT) regulations.

The regulator expects Czech crypto companies to adhere to the EU’s MiCA directives. Such directives oblige Czech crypto firms, including cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet providers, to comply with strong AML/CFT measures, including strict Know Your Customer (KYC) standards.

To operate in Czechia, authorities require cryptocurrency firms to get trade licenses from the Trade Licensing Register. Such licenses facilitate business operations across the EU while removing bureaucratic barriers. Failure to acquire the requisite permits can lead to penalties and business closure.

Czechia provides efficient and transparent regulations for firms seeking to obtain their licenses. The country has been burgeoning into a destination for emerging crypto startups because of its progressive stance on crypto regulation. A straightforward registration timeline of about two weeks and minimal capital requirements make Czechia an excellent place for cryptocurrency businesses. Its proactive stance on virtual currencies explains why the nation has the highest number of registered crypto companies. With its 9,372 registered digital asset service providers (DASPs), Czechia leads the cryptocurrency registration race in Europe.

Czechia Regulation score     

• Positive regulation – 5/5
• Negative regulation – N/A  
• Institutional outlook – 4/5

Taxes in Czechia

The following table summarizes the critical cryptocurrency income tax rates in the Czech Republic.

Ways to reduce crypto taxes

While there is no way to evade crypto taxes, there are strategies Czechia people can use to minimize their tax burden legally. Here are vital tips that can potentially help crypto users save thousands of euros on their tax bills:

• Proper recordkeeping can help prevent potential penalties and fines.
• Holding cryptocurrency for 12 months or longer results in paying a lower tax rate (0-20%).
• Giving out crypto gifts and crypto donations are usually not subject to tax in most cases.
• Sell assets at a loss to offset capital gains and, therefore, lower tax liability. This is commonly known as crypto tax loss harvesting. Users should execute such trades before the end of the tax year. Once the new tax year rolls in, capital gains and losses are locked in for the previous tax year. Free crypto profit calculators like CoinLedger and TokenTax can allow users to make plans and calculate potential crypto losses.
• Holding the asset is the only way to ensure you won’t be taxed on cryptocurrency.
• Consult a tax professional to help identify other potential strategies to reduce tax bills.