Lithuania vs Vanuatu
Crypto regulation comparison
Lithuania
Vanuatu
Legal
Legal
Cryptocurrency is legal and regulated in Lithuania. The Bank of Lithuania oversees VASPs under AML regulations and has been an early mover in crypto regulation within the EU. Lithuania attracted a large number of VASP registrations due to initially favorable conditions, though it tightened requirements significantly in 2022-2023. The MiCA framework now applies.
Vanuatu has become a popular jurisdiction for crypto businesses due to its tax-free environment. The VFSC has developed a regulatory framework for digital assets.
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Type
No tax
Tax Rate
15%
Tax Rate
0%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
Bank of Lithuania (Lietuvos Bankas)
Regulator
Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
No specific stablecoin regulation
Key Points
- VASPs must register with the Bank of Lithuania under AML/CFT law
- Capital gains from crypto taxed at 15% personal income tax rate
- Lithuania became a major EU hub for crypto companies; over 500 VASPs registered by 2022
- Tightened VASP requirements in 2022-2023, including local substance and capital requirements
- MiCA transition underway from December 2024
Key Points
- VFSC regulates digital asset businesses
- No income, corporate, or capital gains tax
- Popular jurisdiction for crypto business registration
- Citizenship by investment program exists
- Developing digital asset regulatory framework
