Estonia vs Seychelles
Crypto regulation comparison
Estonia
Seychelles
Legal
Legal
Estonia was an early mover in crypto regulation, offering licenses since 2017. However, a 2022 overhaul significantly tightened requirements, revoking hundreds of licenses and imposing stricter capital and compliance standards. Crypto gains are taxed at 20% (rising to 22% from 2025).
The VASP Act 2024 effective Sept 2024 establishes FSA as regulator for virtual asset service providers. Exchanges require licensing. Mining and mixer/tumbler services are prohibited in Seychelles.
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Type
No tax
Tax Rate
20-22%
Tax Rate
0%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
No
Regulator
Finantsinspektsioon (EFSA), Rahapesu Andmebüroo (FIU)
Regulator
Financial Services Authority (FSA)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under VASP Act 2024
Key Points
- Estonia issued crypto licenses since 2017 but drastically tightened rules in 2022
- Hundreds of crypto licenses were revoked in 2020-2022 due to AML concerns
- New requirements include higher share capital (€100,000-€250,000) and local management
- Crypto gains taxed at 20% personal income tax (22% from 2025)
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024
Key Points
- VASP Act 2024 enacted Aug 30, effective Sept 1, 2024
- FSA licenses and supervises all virtual asset service providers
- Mining facilities and mixer/tumbler services prohibited
- VASPs must maintain local office and resident director
- Licensed IBC VASPs taxed at 1.5% on assessable income