Cryptocurrency and Blockchain
In recent years, cryptocurrency and blockchain technology have rapidly expanded across the global business and investment landscape, including in Georgia.
While cryptocurrency is not considered legal tender, it is classified as a virtual asset. According to the Organic Law of Georgia "On the National Bank of Georgia," a virtual asset is defined as a digital expression of value that is interchangeable and non-unique, serves as a subject of digital transfer or trading, and is used for investment and/or payment purposes.
A virtual asset does not include digital expressions of monetary funds, securities, or other financial instruments.
As the use of virtual assets increases and technology evolves rapidly, the need for legal regulations, tax rules, and various standards has grown to ensure consumer protection from financial manipulation.
The National Bank of Georgia explains that operations with cryptocurrencies are allowed; however, they are not subject to banking supervision, and users act at their own risk.
Is Cryptocurrency Trading Legal in Georgia?
Cryptocurrency is a virtual asset that can be stored, bought, and sold in Georgia. Although the definition of virtual assets is relatively limited, the National Bank has established clear registration procedures for entities that operate trading platforms involving crypto assets.
These entities are referred to as Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). To obtain this status, organizations must meet a number of requirements and strictly comply with regulations set by the National Bank.
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain – Regulations in Georgia
Since 2023, the registration rule for Virtual Asset Service Providers has been in effect. This rule, established by the Financial Monitoring Service of Georgia, is based on international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
If you operate as:
- A cryptocurrency exchange
- A crypto wallet service provider
- A tokenized asset platform
- A provider of blockchain-based financial services
you are required to register as a Virtual Asset Service Provider. The purpose of registration is to implement AML/CTF (Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing) regulations in the crypto industry and to protect consumer rights.
Taxation of Cryptocurrency and Blockchain in Georgia
Georgia’s Tax Code does not explicitly define the taxation rules for cryptocurrency trading. However, based on current practice:
- Income earned from crypto assets is considered taxable and subject to profit or income tax.
- For legal entities, crypto-related income is typically taxed as part of standard commercial activity.
- For individuals, income from crypto assets is assessed on a case-by-case basis. It is crucial to properly account for and assess cryptocurrency transactions using fair market value.
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain – Legal Services by Justice League
Justice League offers comprehensive legal support in the field of cryptocurrency and blockchain, including:
- Legal consultation on virtual asset regulations
- Preparation and submission of documentation for VASP registration with the National Bank
- Development of AML/CTF policies and compliance systems
- Drafting contracts related to tokenization, NFTs, crypto wallets, and platform terms of use
- Legal analysis of blockchain projects (tokenomics, whitepapers, legal structuring)
- Tax strategy development for crypto projects
Dispute resolution and representation before regulatory authorities and courts If you operate in the field of cryptocurrency or blockchain or plan to launch a related platform in Georgia, Justice League is ready to provide full legal support — from registration to ensuring regulatory compliance.