The Dominican Republic does not have any specific crypto laws, and the Central Bank of the country does not consider crypto assets as legal currency. Any entity operating a digital asset must do it at its own risk. Despite not regulating any crypto law, it is expected by the users to follow anti-money laundering (AML)and counter financing terrorism protocols (CFT).
Everything you need to know about crypto regulations in the Dominican Republic
Legal status (2021)
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic has issued two separate statements so far, one of which confirms that ‘crypto assets are not government-backed and are not fiat currency’. This asserts the grey area of cryptocurrency in the country. According to Law 183-02 of the Republic, no payments are debts are to be accepted by the banks with crypto assets.
Risk and Penalty
Another statement released by the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic warned the entities operating crypto, saying any individual or company dealing and investing in crypto should do it at their own risk.
In the same statement, the officials announced that any banks or other regulated financial institutions dealing with crypto may be subject to fines and sanctions. As a result of this, most banks do not take clients dealing with crypto assets.
License–
The Dominican Republic does not have any specific crypto regulations or licenses for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). However, if digital assets are used in financial intermediation, then the company and individual engaging in the activity would require a crypto license.
Virtual Asset Business Legislation 2022-
In mid-2022, the Dominican Republic released new virtual asset business legislation involving an agreement to appoint the TRON Protocol (a global blockchain platform). It aimed to designate the national blockchain infrastructure and to unite the Dominican Republic with the global economy.
2017 Monetary Board Announcement-
The Monetary Board and the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic emphasized that local financial institutions are not allowed to perform operations using digital currency. If they do not comply with this law, they may be subject to penalties.
Legalised crypto platforms-
Despite not legalizing crypto assets or regulating specific laws, people are engaging with crypto in the Dominican Republic. Platforms offering services are required to follow AML and KYC compliance to ensure the safety of customers’ funds.
Arkham and Arkham Futures are some of the best crypto platforms in the Republic to ensure the protection of the user. These platforms do not engage in illegal activities and have strict compliance with KYC and AML.
What is the government of the Dominican Republic saying about crypto?
The government of the Dominican Republic, more specifically the Central Bank, has taken several cautious steps regarding cryptocurrency in the country. It has reiterated that crypto is not legal tender and is not backed by the government.
It has not officially banned crypto but has warned the local institutions, banks, and citizens from using crypto due to its potential risks. The government has also emphasised that the national currency of the Dominican Republic remains the sole legal tender for payments in the country.
Crypto Tax in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic follows a territorial tax regime to balance revenue and promote innovation. Under this regime, any income earned within the country is subject to tax. This same principle applies to crypto as well. Thus, earnings from crypto-related activities such as mining and trading are taxable in the Republic.
Tax summary of the Dominican Republic
TAX
RATE
Corporations
27%
residents
25%
Gifts
27%
Wealth Tax
NA
Inheritance
3%
Crypto Adoption Rate in the Dominican Republic
Crypto adoption rate in the Dominican Republic is low in comparison to other crypto-friendly countries. In 2025, the crypto rate in the country is found to be 3.7%, representing one of the lowest crypto adoption rates in Latin America.
The top crypto exchanges, such as Arkham, have a trading volume reaching $74.2 billion and increasing continuously.
Dominican Republic government’s crypto holdings: As of 2025, the Dominican government does not officially hold any crypto. Policies are currently focusing on warning people about crypto’s potential risks.
Conclusion
The central bank of the Dominican Republic has warned against crypto but has not outright prohibited the use of digital assets. Despite the lack of comprehensive legislation regarding cryptocurrency, it is used by Dominican people. Bitcoin is one of the most popular cryptocurrencies among them, there are even Bitcoin ATM’s in Santo Domingo.
FAQs
Is cryptocurrency legal in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, cryptocurrency ownership and use are legal in the Dominican Republic. However, the Central Bank does not consider crypto legal tender and warns users to operate at their own risk.
What is the Dominican Republic’s stance on crypto regulation?
The Dominican Republic lacks specific crypto laws. While it doesn’t ban crypto, the Central Bank advises caution, emphasizes AML/CFT compliance, and prohibits regulated financial institutions from dealing with digital assets.
Which government body regulates crypto in the Dominican Republic?
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic primarily oversees monetary policy and has issued warnings regarding crypto, but there isn’t a dedicated regulatory body for cryptocurrencies or specific crypto laws.
What is the crypto tax in the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic follows a territorial tax regime. This means income earned within the country, including profits from crypto activities like mining and trading, is subject to tax. There is no specific capital gains tax on crypto.
Zafar Naik
Zafar is a seasoned crypto and blockchain news writer with four years of experience. Known for accuracy, in-depth analysis, and a clear, engaging style, Zafar actively participates in blockchain communities. Beyond writing, Zafar enjoys trading and exploring the latest trends in the crypto market.