The cryptocurrency market in Vietnam is experiencing significant changes. Notably, a new tax policy is set to be implemented in 2026. Therefore, investors need to be well-informed about these regulations. This article will provide detailed information on crypto taxes in Vietnam. It will help you best prepare for your financial future.
Previously, Vietnam lacked a clear legal framework for cryptocurrencies, causing much concern for investors. However, things are changing. A draft of new tax regulations has been announced by the Ministry of Finance. This draft aims to legalize and more strictly manage digital asset transactions.
New Tax Framework for Cryptocurrency Transactions
The key point of the draft is the application of a 0.1% tax rate. This tax will be levied on revenue from cryptocurrency transactions. Importantly, this tax applies to individual investors, who can be Vietnamese or foreign nationals, provided the transactions occur on licensed platforms. This is a significant step towards market transparency.
This tax mechanism is similar to how securities transactions are currently taxed, thus simplifying the process. Investors will pay tax on the total transaction value. This means tax must be paid regardless of whether the transaction results in a profit or loss. Some may find this burdensome, but the goal is to reduce complexity in calculating net profits.
Value Added Tax (VAT) Exempted
According to the draft, cryptocurrency transactions and trading activities will not be subject to VAT. This aligns with the general trend in many countries that view digital currencies as financial instruments rather than taxable goods or services. For example, Thailand and Indonesia also adopt a similar approach.
Personal Income Tax (PIT) for Individual Investors
Individual investors, whether Vietnamese residents or foreigners, will be required to pay a 0.1% PIT on their revenue for each digital asset transfer. This tax rate is parallel to the current securities transaction tax, thereby creating tax equity.
Corporate Income Tax (CIT) for Organizations
For Vietnamese businesses trading cryptocurrencies, the CIT rate will be 20%. Taxable income is calculated as the selling price minus the purchase price and related transaction costs. On the other hand, foreign companies operating through Vietnamese platforms will be subject to a 0.1% tax on the transfer value. This is a notable difference compared to domestic businesses.
Legal Context and Development Roadmap
This tax draft is part of Vietnam’s 5-year digital asset pilot program, which began in September 2025. The objective is to create a clear legal environment and promote the sustainable development of the digital asset market. Vietnam is striving to establish a modern legal framework for cryptocurrencies.
The Digital Technology Industry Law, effective from January 1, 2026, officially recognizes cryptocurrencies as digital assets. This provides legal protection for digital assets, paving the way for ownership, trading, and inheritance similar to other traditional assets.
Definition of Digital Assets According to the Draft
The draft clearly defines digital assets as digital properties that use cryptography or similar digital technologies to authenticate during their creation, issuance, storage, and transfer. This definition helps to clearly distinguish them from other types of assets.
Pilot Program and Trading Platforms
The digital asset pilot program requires all activities, including issuance, trading, and payment, to be conducted in Vietnamese Dong. The implementation of tax regulations will depend on the development of licensed trading platform infrastructure. For instance, the State Securities Commission began accepting license applications for digital asset exchanges from January 20, 2026.
Unanswered Questions
Despite the draft outlining important regulations, several issues remain unclear. Specifically, the draft does not address:
- Taxes on cryptocurrency mining activities.
- Taxes on staking rewards.
- Regulations for decentralized finance (DeFi).
- Taxation of peer-to-peer (wallet-to-wallet) transactions outside licensed platforms.
- Obligations of cryptocurrency service providers.
These issues need further consideration and clarification in detailed guiding documents. This will provide investors and businesses with a more comprehensive understanding.
Impact on Investors
The introduction of the new tax legal framework brings both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it creates transparency and legal security, which may attract more large investors and institutions. On the other hand, the application of tax on revenue could affect profits, especially for high-frequency traders.
Investors need to prepare thoroughly. Keeping detailed records of transactions is crucial, including wallet history, profits/losses, and income sources. This will facilitate smooth tax reporting. Understanding the capital investment income tax regulations after 2026 is essential.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s new crypto tax policy in 2026 marks a significant turning point, demonstrating the maturity of the digital asset market and the government’s commitment to creating a clear and sustainable legal environment. Investors should proactively learn about and adapt to these changes to optimize their investment strategies and ensure legal compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the new crypto tax policy in Vietnam take effect?
The new tax policy is expected to take effect along with the Digital Technology Industry Law, starting from January 1, 2026.
What is the tax rate for individual investors?
Individual investors will be subject to a 0.1% tax rate on their revenue for each digital asset transfer, regardless of their residency status.
How will foreign companies be taxed?
Foreign companies operating through Vietnamese platforms will be subject to a 0.1% tax on the transfer value.
Are cryptocurrency transactions subject to VAT?
According to the draft, cryptocurrency transactions on licensed platforms will be exempt from VAT.
Has the draft addressed all crypto tax issues?
No, the draft still leaves some issues unaddressed, such as taxes on mining activities, staking, DeFi, and transactions outside licensed platforms.