Malta vs Seychelles
Crypto regulation comparison
Malta
Seychelles
Legal
Legal
Malta positioned itself as the 'Blockchain Island' with the 2018 Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) Act, one of the world's first comprehensive crypto regulatory frameworks. The MFSA licenses VFA service providers and oversees ICOs. Long-term crypto holdings are generally not subject to capital gains tax for individuals, while trading profits may be taxed as income.
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
0-35%
Tax Rate
0%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
No
Regulator
MFSA (Malta Financial Services Authority)
Regulator
Financial Services Authority (FSA)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under MFSA VFA framework and EU MiCA
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under VASP Act 2024
Key Points
- Virtual Financial Assets Act (2018) provides a comprehensive licensing framework
- MFSA licenses VFA exchanges, brokers, custodians, and portfolio managers
- Long-term crypto holdings generally not subject to capital gains tax for individuals
- Day trading profits may be taxed as business income at progressive rates up to 35%
- Transitioning to EU MiCA framework 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