Cryptocurrency and Capital Gains Tax in Serbia: What You Need to Know

TL;DR:
Serbia is becoming increasingly crypto-friendly, especially for investors and young entrepreneurs. While crypto payments are still restricted in daily transactions, Serbia allows crypto trading, investing, and mining—with clear tax regulations. Capital gains tax on crypto is a flat 15% for individuals and businesses, and Serbia does not participate in the Common Reporting Standard (CRS). Always consult a professional for personalized tax advice.

 

Watch the full video!

Man questioning Canada's future next to Prime Minister Mark Carney with text overlay "Is Canada Cooked?" – political dissatisfaction among Canadians considering moving to Serbia
Why So Many Ask About Crypto in Serbia

Cryptocurrency is a hot topic for many investors and newcomers considering Serbia. Whether you're a digital nomad, business owner, or crypto enthusiast, knowing how Serbia treats crypto can make or break your financial plans.

In this video/post, we break down how crypto is taxed in Serbia, how to legally use it, and what you need to do to stay compliant—especially if you're a foreigner.

🇷🇸 Serbia: A Crypto-Friendly Jurisdiction?

Yes—Serbia is favorable toward cryptocurrency, particularly when compared to Western nations like Canada or the UK. Here’s why:

  • You can buy, sell, and trade crypto legally.

  • Crypto is classified as an intangible asset, not legal tender.

  • The country does not participate in the CRS (Common Reporting Standard), offering more privacy than some EU nations.

  • Licensed crypto exchanges and mining operations are active and growing.

  • A 2025 draft law may introduce additional incentives for crypto-related R&D and lower tax burdens for retail traders.

However, Serbia does not allow crypto payments in day-to-day business (e.g. selling products or services in Bitcoin).

Not Legal Tender: You Can’t Get Paid in Crypto

Although Serbia is open to crypto investment, crypto cannot legally be used as a method of payment in commercial transactions. That’s why even crypto-friendly businesses don’t accept direct crypto payments.

All invoices must be issued in Serbian dinars (RSD) regardless of how you're paid—whether in euros, dollars, or potentially crypto (if converted later).

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

This is not tax advice. For personal or business-related tax guidance, you should book a consultation with Relocation Serbia and speak to our international tax advisors.

How Is Cryptocurrency Taxed in Serbia?

Cryptocurrency taxation in Serbia is based on several laws, including:

  • Law on Digital Assets (2021)

  • Personal Income Tax Law

  • Corporate Income Tax Law

  • Value Added Tax (VAT) Law

Tax enforcement is handled by the Serbian Tax Administration, National Bank of Serbia, and the Securities Commission.

Types of Crypto Taxation:
Activity Tax Applied
Selling/trading crypto        15% Capital Gains Tax
Mining, staking, airdrops, bounties       15% Personal Income Tax
Business income from crypto       15% Corporate Income Tax
Transfer of virtual currencies           Not subject to VAT



Tip: If you just buy and hold crypto without selling or converting it, there is no tax on unrealized gains.
Crypto Tax Deadlines

  • Individuals: Must report capital gains within 120 days of the end of the quarter in which the gain occurred.

  • Businesses: Must report crypto-related gains annually in their tax balance.

Exemptions and Tax Relief

  • 50% Capital Gains Rebate if profits are reinvested into a Serbian company or fund within 90 days.

  • Exemption for Dealer Inventory: Exchanges and dealers are exempt from capital gains tax on inventory coins meant solely for resale.

Want to Start a Crypto Business in Serbia?

You can—but don’t use a sole proprietorship. For finance-related businesses (crypto, stock trading, lending), you need a corporate structure (e.g. LLC or joint-stock company).

Relocation Serbia can assist with company formation, tax registration, and compliance for crypto and fintech businesses.

What's Coming in 2025?

A draft amendment to the Law on Digital Assets could make Serbia even more appealing for crypto users:

  • Regulatory sandbox for blockchain startups

  • Capital gains tax exemption on profits under €1,000 (de minimis)

  • Tax credits for crypto-related R&D

These changes would make Serbia one of Europe’s most competitive environments for crypto entrepreneurs.

Work With International Tax Experts

Relocation Serbia works with multilingual, experienced international tax advisors who specialize in foreign investors and digital assets.

📞 Book a consultation if you're serious about using crypto in Serbia—for personal or business purposes.

Frequently asked questions
Can I get paid in Ethereum for my freelance work in Serbia?
No. Payments in crypto are not legally allowed for services. You must be paid in legal tender and issue invoices in dinars.
Do I pay tax if I just hold Bitcoin?
No. Serbia only taxes crypto when you sell, exchange, or use it to buy something.
Do I need to declare crypto holdings in Serbia?
Only if you realize a gain (sell, trade, or use it). Otherwise, you don’t need to declare held assets.
Is Serbia safer than other countries for crypto investors?
It’s considered more flexible and less intrusive than many EU nations, especially due to its non-CRS status.
Is Serbia good for crypto mining?
Yes! You can mine crypto and even set up a mining company. But profits are taxed at 15%.
Is Serbia in the CRS system?
No. Serbia does not participate in the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), which some view as favorable for financial privacy.
Can foreigners open a crypto-related business in Serbia?
Yes. Foreigners can own and operate Serbian companies, including in the crypto and finance sector.
What if I’m a U.S. citizen?
You’re still subject to FATCA and must report foreign financial assets to the IRS. Relocation Serbia can help coordinate cross-border tax compliance.