Ireland vs Luxembourg
Crypto regulation comparison
Ireland
Luxembourg
Legal
Legal
Cryptocurrency is legal in Ireland and subject to a 33% capital gains tax, one of the higher rates in the EU. The Central Bank of Ireland supervises VASPs under AML regulations, and Ireland follows the EU's MiCA framework. Ireland's status as a European tech hub has attracted crypto businesses.
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
Capital gains
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Rate
33%
Tax Rate
0-42%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
Central Bank of Ireland, Revenue Commissioners
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
- 33% capital gains tax on crypto profits (CGT), with an annual exemption of €1,270
- Income from crypto mining, staking, or airdrops may be treated as income tax
- Central Bank of Ireland registers VASPs under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering) Act
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024
- Ireland hosts European headquarters of several major crypto firms
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