Italy Establishes Robust Crypto Regulatory Framework Aligned with EU MiCA Standards

Italy is solidifying its position in the global cryptocurrency landscape by establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework, largely driven by the European Union's (EU) Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCAR) standards. This move aims to provide a secure environment for crypto and other digital currencies by enhancing investor protection, promoting transparent practices, and implementing clear stablecoin guidelines.

The Italian government has been actively implementing regulations on taxes and licenses throughout 2025 to align its framework with global standards.

Recent Regulatory Milestones:

• June 25, 2025 - Law Decree 95/2025: Published in the Official Gazette on June 30, this decree extends the deadline for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) operating in Italy to register and obtain licenses until December 30, 2025. This was an extension from the initial June 30, 2025 deadline.
• June 4, 2025 - Decision No. 330: The Italian data protection authority, the Garante, issued clarifications on collecting valid privacy consent for marketing purposes. This regulation is expected to impact Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) and their handling of personal data within the crypto ecosystem.

Evolving Crypto Tax Landscape:

Starting January 1, 2026, Italy's new budget law will increase the capital gains tax on crypto to 33%, though there's still a possibility it could revert to 26%. Additionally, the previous exemption for gains not exceeding €2,000 will be abolished from next year.

The Italian government, as of 2025, is embracing cryptocurrency while tightening security to ensure investor protection. Key focuses include:

• Compliance with MiCA: A legislative decree approved in 2024 adapts national legislation to MiCA, aiming for enhanced transparency and investor protection.
• Compliance with OAM: All crypto business operators are mandated to join the Organismo Agenti e Mediatori (OAM) system for Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance.

Current Taxable Events under Italian law include selling crypto for fiat, using crypto for goods and services, and receiving crypto as payment. However, the tax treatment of events such as Bitcoin mining, airdrops, NFTs, lending, staking, bounties, hard forks, and crypto gifts remains unclear. Crypto taxes must be reported to Agenzia Entrate by October 15 each year.

Crypto Licensing in Italy 2025:

CASPs must comply with MiCA's EU-wide licensing requirements and register with the Financial Services Supervisory Authority (CONSOB) for local operations. Existing CASPs in Italy have until December 30, 2025, to apply for MiCA authorization. Crypto exchanges, digital wallet providers, and other crypto-related service entities are required to adhere to strict AML and Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance.

Types of crypto licenses available in Italy include:

• Crypto exchange and storage license: For exchanging and storing digital assets.
• License for stablecoin: For companies operating with or issuing stablecoins.
• License to issue digital securities: For issuing digital stocks or bonds.

MiCA has also published detailed guidance on how to apply for a crypto license.

Growing Crypto Adoption in Italy:

Experts predict that over 3.6 million Italians will hold digital assets in 2025, with a user penetration rate expected to be 27.98% and growing to 28.93% by 2026. The total number of cryptocurrency users is forecasted to reach 17.05 million by 2026.

Conclusion:

Driven by factors such as public debt, centralized financial control, and economic instability, Italians are increasingly exploring cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin. In response to this growing interest, the government has enacted stricter laws to balance security with innovation. Italy is steadily aligning with global cryptocurrency trends in terms of regulations and adoption rates, positioning itself closer to international standards in the digital asset space.

July 2025, Cryptoniteuae