Estonia vs Syria
Crypto regulation comparison
Estonia
Syria
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).
Syria has a restrictive stance on cryptocurrency compounded by international sanctions. The Central Bank has not authorized crypto activities. International sanctions make access to crypto platforms extremely difficult.
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
- Central Bank has not authorized cryptocurrency activities
- International sanctions severely restrict crypto access
- No specific cryptocurrency legislation
- Limited internet infrastructure hampers crypto use
- Informal crypto usage exists despite restrictions