RESEARCH: Georgia (country) cryptocurrency and digital asset enforcement regulatory requirements

RESEARCH: Georgia (country) Cryptocurrency and Digital Asset Enforcement Regulatory Requirements

Executive Summary

Cryptocurrencies are legal in Georgia, but the regulatory framework is evolving. The National Bureau of Enforcement (NBE) oversees enforcement across various domains, including digital assets indirectly through broader financial regulation. As of 2025‑2026, there is no specific licensing regime solely for cryptocurrency exchanges or wallet providers under Georgian law; however, entities facilitating crypto services may fall under general financial sector regulations enforced by the National Bank of Georgia (NBG). No crypto-specific licenses have been issued yet, indicating a practical reality where operations proceed under broader banking or securities rules. The primary risk remains regulatory uncertainty and potential future enforcement actions targeting unlicensed crypto activities.

Regulatory Framework

Regulatory Bodies:

• National Bureau of Enforcement (NBE): Responsible for enforcing general laws across Georgia.
• National Bank of Georgia (NBG): Oversees financial sector compliance, including indirect oversight of crypto-related activities via existing financial regulations.
• Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission (GAMCC): Regulates low‑THC oil but not broader cryptocurrency markets.

Primary Laws:

• Law of Georgia on Enforcement Proceedings (1999): Governs enforcement across judicial and administrative acts, including those related to financial offenses. Source
• National Bank of Georgia Competition Policy: Addresses market manipulation and unfair practices that could affect crypto trading platforms. Source

International Standing: Georgia is a member of FATF (Financial Action Task Force) with commitments to AML/CFT standards, indirectly affecting cryptocurrency regulation.

Licensing Requirements

No specific licenses for cryptocurrency exchanges or wallets exist in Georgia as of 2025‑2026. Entities providing such services must comply with existing financial regulations:

• NBG Oversight: Crypto platforms may be classified under securities or payment system licensing if they facilitate tokenized assets or fiat conversions.
• Application Process: Not applicable without a specific crypto license; entities would need to apply for general banking or payment licenses per NBG rules. Source
• Capital Requirements: Vary by the type of financial service but generally require meeting NBG’s minimum capital standards.
• Actual Licensing Status: No crypto‑specific licenses have been issued; existing licensed entities operate under broader categories.

AML/KYC Requirements

While no dedicated crypto AML framework exists, general financial regulations apply:

• CDD (Customer Due Diligence): Required for all financial service providers, including those handling cryptocurrency transactions.
• **EDD (Enhanced Due

Enforcement Actions

Tax Treatment

Key Gaps & Risks

Sources

• Source
• Source
• Source