Russian Cryptocurrency Law: Rules, Risks, and Recent Changes

When navigating Russian cryptocurrency law, the set of rules that govern how digital assets are created, traded, and taxed in the Russian Federation. Also known as Russian crypto regulation, it shapes everything from exchange licensing to investor reporting. The law covers three core pillars: classification of crypto assets, tax obligations for holders, and mandatory anti‑money‑laundering (AML) procedures. Understanding these pillars is the first step to staying compliant and protecting your portfolio.

Key Areas to Watch

One major component is crypto exchange licensing, the process by which platforms must obtain a permit from the Central Bank to operate legally in Russia. Without this license, an exchange cannot offer fiat‑crypto pairing or provide custodial services, and users risk account freezes. Another crucial part is digital asset tax, the 13% tax on cryptocurrency income that the Federal Tax Service enforces on both individuals and businesses. The tax applies when you sell, exchange, or use crypto to pay for goods, and failure to report can trigger hefty penalties. Finally, AML compliance, the set of know‑your‑customer (KYC) and transaction‑monitoring rules required by Roskomnadzor and the Ministry of Finance, ensures that suspicious flows are flagged and reported. These three entities intersect: a licensed exchange must embed AML checks, and both must feed data to tax authorities for accurate reporting.

Putting it all together, Russian cryptocurrency law requires participants to align their technical infrastructure with legal expectations, maintain transparent records, and stay updated on policy shifts. Below you’ll find a curated collection of articles that break down how the law impacts exchange reviews, cross‑border token swaps, and tax strategies. Whether you’re a trader, a developer, or a compliance officer, the pieces ahead will give you practical steps to navigate the evolving Russian crypto landscape.