Moldova to Introduce Cryptocurrency Legislation in 2026, Aligning with EU's MiCA Framework

Moldova will introduce its first comprehensive cryptocurrency legislation by the end of 2026, aligning with the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulatory framework. Finance Minister Andrian Gavrilita announced the plan in a recent interview with state-owned TVR Moldova.

The legislation will allow citizens to legally hold and trade cryptocurrencies but will not recognize digital assets as legal tender. Gavrilita stressed that the government sees cryptocurrencies as speculative rather than as traditional investments, and that regulatory oversight is necessary to prevent misuse.

Moldova's central bank has previously issued warnings about the volatility and money laundering risks associated with cryptocurrencies. The new rules aim to address these concerns by establishing a legal framework that supports financial transparency and consumer protection.

Why Did This Happen?

Moldova's move reflects its broader goals of aligning with EU regulatory standards and progressing toward EU membership. As a candidate country, Moldova is under pressure to implement EU-level rules across multiple financial sectors, including cryptocurrency according to analysis.

The legislation is expected to be developed in collaboration with the National Bank of Moldova, the financial markets regulator, and the Anti-Money Laundering authority. This multi-agency approach will help ensure a balanced and enforceable regulatory framework.

How Will the Legislation Work?

Under the proposed rules, the government will set strict criteria for who can conduct crypto transactions and convert digital assets into the national currency, the Moldovan leu, or foreign currencies according to reports.

Gavrilita clarified that while owning and trading cryptocurrencies will be legal, using them for payments will remain prohibited. This mirrors the EU approach, where cryptocurrencies are not recognized as official tender but are regulated for investment purposes.

The legislation will also introduce tax obligations for income derived from cryptocurrency transactions. Moldovan residents will be required to pay a 12% tax on profits from crypto trades.

What Are Investors Watching?

Regulatory clarity is a key factor for institutional and retail investors considering exposure to crypto markets. Moldova's alignment with MiCA could make its market more attractive to international investors familiar with EU standards.

The government has acknowledged the potential for misuse in unregulated crypto environments, citing a recent case where a citizen was convicted for transferring large sums of cryptocurrency to a foreign entity.

Moldova's central bank will play a key role in enforcing compliance and ensuring that the new rules do not create loopholes for financial crime.

What's Next for the Regulatory Process?

The draft legislation is expected to be finalized and introduced by the end of 2026, with implementation likely to follow in early 2027. Financial institutions and service providers will need to prepare for compliance with the new rules.

The European Union's MiCA framework has already entered full effect across EU member states, with some countries opting for shorter transitional periods. Moldova's timeline aligns with the EU's broader approach to crypto regulation .

Market participants will be watching for further details on how the legislation will be enforced, particularly around tax reporting and AML requirements. The government has not yet provided a detailed timeline for enforcement.