From 2025, the Netherlands will enforce new cryptocurrency rules in line with EU-wide regulations — the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) and the revised Transfer of Funds Regulation (TFR), which introduces the so-called Travel Rule. These changes impact both crypto service providers and private investors.

MiCA: licensing requirement for crypto service providers

Starting 30 December 2024, all crypto asset service providers (CASPs) operating in the Netherlands must obtain a license from the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM) to continue offering their services. A transition period runs until 30 June 2025. After that, only licensed companies will be legally allowed to operate in the Dutch market.

MiCA introduces harmonised standards across the EU, including:

• mandatory licensing for CASPs;
• consumer protection and transparency requirements;
• market abuse and anti-money laundering (AML) safeguards.

In the Netherlands, MiCA replaces the current registration regime with the

Travel Rule: data-sharing obligations for crypto transfers

Also from 30 December 2024, the updated TFR will enforce the Travel Rule, requiring crypto transactions to include detailed information about both sender and receiver — even for transfers under €1,000.

Key changes include:

• Data-sharing is mandatory for all CASP-to-CASP transfers, regardless of the amount.
• Transfers to self-custody wallets over €1,000 require proof of ownership — such as a cryptographic signature or wallet screenshot.
• CASPs must implement internal checks and may block transactions lacking the required information.

These changes aim to improve transparency, traceability, and reduce the risk of illicit finance in the crypto space.

Crypto taxes in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, cryptocurrency holdings are taxed as part of your wealth under Box 3. The taxable base is determined by the presumed return on your crypto assets as of 1 January each year.

For 2024:

• Presumed return for crypto: 6.04%
• Tax rate: 36% on the presumed return
• Tax-free threshold: €57,000 per individual or €114,000 for fiscal partners

If you earn income through mining, staking, or professional trading, these may fall under Box 1 and be taxed as regular income.

What it means for crypto users

• Check service providers: Make sure any exchange or crypto platform you use is licensed by AFM starting in 2025.
• Prepare for ownership verification: Be ready to prove wallet ownership for larger transfers to self-custody wallet.
• Report your crypto: Don’t forget to declare your assets based on their value on 1 January 2024 in your 2025 tax return.
• Seek advice if needed: Crypto taxation is nuanced — when in doubt, consult a tax advisor familiar with Dutch regulations.

Final thoughts

As crypto continues to evolve, the Dutch and EU regulators are introducing clear frameworks to protect users and ensure financial transparency. While these changes may introduce new compliance steps for investors and service providers alike, they also signal a maturing, safer crypto ecosystem in the Netherlands.

Helpful links:

• Scorechain on MiCA licensing in the Netherlands
• AFM guidance on Travel Rule
• Belastingdienst: income in Box 3 (2024)