Portugal vs Vanuatu
Crypto regulation comparison
Portugal
Vanuatu
Legal
Legal
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.
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
28%
Tax Rate
0%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
Banco de Portugal, CMVM (Securities Market Commission)
Regulator
Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC)
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
No specific stablecoin regulation
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
- 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