Portugal vs Uganda
Crypto regulation comparison
Portugal
Uganda
Portugal was formerly a crypto tax haven with 0% capital gains tax on crypto for individuals, but the 2023 State Budget introduced a 28% capital gains tax on crypto held for less than one year. Crypto held for over 365 days remains tax-free for individuals. Banco de Portugal registers VASPs for AML compliance, and Portugal transitions to MiCA. Portugal attracted many crypto entrepreneurs due to its previously favorable tax regime and NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) program.
Uganda restricts cryptocurrency. The Bank of Uganda issued a 2022 circular (NPSD 306) barring licensed payment service providers from facilitating crypto transactions. A 2023 High Court ruling upheld the circular, declaring cryptocurrencies illegal under the National Payment Systems Act 2020. No crypto exchanges are licensed to operate. Informal P2P crypto activity exists despite restrictions.
Key Points
- 28% capital gains tax on crypto sold within 365 days (introduced in 2023 budget)
- Crypto held for more than 365 days is exempt from capital gains tax for individuals
- Banco de Portugal oversees VASP registration for AML/CFT compliance
- CMVM regulates crypto where classified as securities
- Former 0% tax regime attracted crypto entrepreneurs; NHR tax regime phased out in 2024
Key Points
- BOU Circular NPSD 306 (April 2022) bars licensed entities from facilitating crypto
- 2023 High Court ruled cryptocurrencies illegal under National Payment Systems Act 2020
- Growing crypto adoption, particularly for cross-border transactions
- No specific crypto taxation rules
- Financial Intelligence Authority requires VASPs to comply with AML laws