Greece Enforces MiCA Crypto Rules, Eyes 24% VAT Tax

- Greece introduced stricter licensing requirements for crypto exchanges and wallet providers. - New taxes on crypto capital gains and services will take effect this fall. Greece has enforced tougher cryptocurrency regulations to align with the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. These new rules aim to strengthen industry oversight and combat tax evasion and money laundering. On August 26, 2025, Cryptopolitan reported that the Hellenic Capital Market Commission (HCMC) rolled out new licensing requirements for cryptocurrency companies. Exchanges and wallet providers must now meet with regulators and submit comprehensive dossiers that include business plans and shareholder details, as companies without a Greek license cannot offer services locally. In addition, Greece has enhanced regulatory oversight, with the Hellenic Anti-Money Laundering Authority (HAMLA) and the Independent Public Revenue Authority (IAPR) expanding their roles to monitor cryptocurrency transactions. These agencies now have the authority to investigate fund origins and freeze assets if they detect suspicious activity. Furthermore, Greece will introduce new taxes on cryptocurrency activities later this year. Individual investors will face a capital gains tax starting at 15%, while a 24% value-added tax (VAT) will apply to certain crypto-related services. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will provide specific details on these tax rates during his address at the Thessaloniki International Fair in September.