Czech Republic vs El Salvador
Crypto regulation comparison
Czech Republic
El Salvador
Legal
Legal
Cryptocurrency is legal in the Czech Republic with a growing regulatory framework aligned with EU standards. Crypto gains are subject to personal income tax at 15% (or 23% for high earners). A 2024 amendment introduced a tax exemption for crypto held over 3 years, effective from 2025.
El Salvador made history in September 2021 by becoming the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender through the Bitcoin Law. However, under a January 2025 IMF agreement (Decreto 199), El Salvador amended the law to make Bitcoin acceptance by businesses voluntary rather than mandatory, and repealed several articles. There is no capital gains tax on Bitcoin. The CNAD regulates digital assets.
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Type
No tax
Tax Rate
15-23%
Tax Rate
0%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
CNB (Czech National Bank), FAU (Financial Analytical Office)
Regulator
BCR (Banco Central de Reserva), CNAD (Comisión Nacional de Activos Digitales)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
USD is the primary currency; Bitcoin-specific legislation in place
Key Points
- Crypto gains taxed at 15% income tax (23% for income above CZK 1,935,552)
- New exemption from 2025: crypto held over 3 years or gains under CZK 100,000 per year exempt
- VASPs must register with the FAU (trade licensing office) and comply with AML law
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024
- Prague is a notable European hub for crypto businesses and blockchain development
Key Points
- First country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender in September 2021 via the Bitcoin Law
- Government developed the Chivo wallet for citizens, offering $30 USD in BTC incentive
- January 2025 Decreto 199 made merchant Bitcoin acceptance voluntary (IMF condition)
- No capital gains tax on Bitcoin transactions for individuals
- Government has been accumulating Bitcoin reserves and launched Bitcoin-backed bonds