Belgium vs Luxembourg
Crypto regulation comparison
Belgium
Luxembourg
Legal
Legal
Cryptocurrency is legal in Belgium and regulated under the EU's MiCA framework. Tax treatment depends on whether gains are considered normal management of private assets (tax-free), speculative (33% misc income), or professional income (progressive rates). The FSMA has banned distribution of crypto derivatives to consumers.
Luxembourg is a major European hub for crypto and blockchain financial services. The CSSF regulates VASPs and crypto-related investment funds. Crypto held for more than 6 months is generally exempt from capital gains tax for individuals, making it attractive for long-term holders. Luxembourg hosts several prominent crypto exchanges and fund administrators.
Tax Type
Varies
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Rate
0-33%
Tax Rate
0-42%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
FSMA (Financial Services and Markets Authority)
Regulator
CSSF (Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework; Luxembourg hosts major stablecoin issuers
Key Points
- Tax treatment depends on classification: normal portfolio management (0%), speculation (33%), or professional (up to 50%)
- FSMA banned advertising of crypto derivatives and certain crypto products to consumers in 2022
- VASPs must register with FSMA and comply with AML/KYC requirements
- MiCA regulation fully applicable from December 2024
- Belgium has a relatively active crypto community and blockchain ecosystem
Key Points
- CSSF oversees VASPs under the Luxembourg AML/CFT framework
- Individuals holding crypto for 6+ months are generally exempt from capital gains tax
- Short-term gains taxed at progressive income tax rates up to 42%
- Major hub for crypto investment funds and blockchain companies
- MiCA framework fully applicable from December 2024