Creating a cryptocurrency business in Slovenia

15.06.2023

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Slovenia

has become a successful European country, actively promoting the development of the cryptocurrency and blockchain sectors. What sets Slovenia apart from other progressive jurisdictions? Its unique approach to the regulation of cryptocurrencies, namely, the refusal of compulsory licensing and a focus on business compliance with the requirements established by the European Bank. To ensure transparency and protect the interests of investors and consumers in the cryptocurrency space, Slovenia has implemented a system for registering cryptocurrency licenses. This license allows companies to engage in all cryptocurrency transactions.

Requirements for obtaining a crypto license in Slovenia

To obtain approval for such activities, companies must meet some requirements designed to ensure the security of transactions and compliance with regulatory standards.

Company registration

The company must be registered in Slovenia and take a certain legal form, for example, a limited liability company (LLC) or a joint stock company (JSC). This step ensures that the company operates in accordance with Slovenian law, providing a strong legal basis for its activities.

Professionalism and reliability

The company must adhere to AML and CFT standards. This involves creating and implementing effective systems and procedures aimed at detecting and preventing illegal financial transactions in the cryptocurrency space.

Ownership and management information

Companies planning to set up a cryptocurrency exchange in Slovenia must provide information about their owners and management personnel, as well as details about the types of cryptocurrency activities they intend to carry out. This disclosure allows regulators to assess a company's compliance and ensure it is operating legally.

Essentially, the process of obtaining a cryptocurrency license in Slovenia is focused on identifying the level of professionalism of applicants and the security of transactions. These stringent requirements combine to create a supportive and trustworthy environment for the growth of cryptocurrency businesses in Slovenia while promoting transparency and trust among customers and investors.

Advantages of registered organizations

After successful registration in the register of companies engaged in cryptocurrency activities in Slovenia, organizations receive the privilege of conducting cryptocurrency transactions and offering various services related to blockchain technologies. A cryptocurrency license opens up a wide range of opportunities for such organizations in the cryptocurrency sector.

Companies are eligible to engage in cryptocurrency transactions, which include the purchase, sale, and exchange of various digital assets. Additionally, they can offer cryptocurrency custody services to clients, ensuring the safety and security of their digital assets.
Firms with a crypto license can provide services for the development and maintenance of blockchain platforms. This involves creating innovative systems based on blockchain technology for various industries, such as finance, logistics, and healthcare. The organization can help clients implement and optimize blockchain solutions, ensuring their reliable functionality.
Registered companies can offer services for creating and auditing smart contracts. Smart contracts are software codes that facilitate self-regulation and automation of contracts based on blockchain technology. These firms can help clients develop and review such contracts to ensure they are reliable, secure, and compliant with specified terms.
With a crypto license, companies can conduct an ICO, a method of attracting investment by offering digital tokens or coins that are useful in the project's system. These organizations can assist clients in conducting successful ICOs, including concept development, legal support, marketing, and technical implementation.

Opening a bank account for your cryptocurrency business in Slovenia

The initial step in establishing a bank account for your cryptocurrency business in Slovenia is to select a bank that specializes in serving cryptocurrency companies and provides related services. Opting for a bank with experience in the cryptocurrency sector is advisable, as it will be well-versed in the unique requirements of your industry.

Thereafter, you must prepare certain essential documents. These may include:

requisite registration certificate, which serves as a testament to your company's legal status;
copies of the company's constituent documents, such as the articles of association and memorandum to establish a cryptocurrency exchange in Slovenia;
copies of identification documents for all owners and managers of the company;
submission of a comprehensive business plan that outlines your cryptocurrency business activities.

Once you have assembled the necessary documents, you will need to complete an application for opening a bank account. This application is a critical part of the process, as it captures various details about your company, its activities, and its financial standing. Accuracy and completeness are key when filling out this application.

The bank will identify and verify the company's owners. It is critical to follow the AML and CFT policies. It might involve checking who owns the business and looking into its history.

After the identification and verification procedures have been completed, the bank will open a bank account for your cryptocurrency business. You will receive account details that enable you to conduct financial transactions within the realm of your crypto activities.

Regulation of cryptocurrency activities in Slovenia

The FURS is the tax authority in Slovenia and is entrusted with the regulatory oversight of cryptocurrency activities in the absence of specific cryptocurrency legislation in the country. FURS fulfills several key functions related to the supervision and control of cryptocurrency activities in Slovenia.

Classification and taxation

FURS takes on the critical role of classifying cryptocurrency assets within the existing tax system and formulating tax obligations for both individuals and companies engaged in cryptocurrency-related activities. This encompasses a wide range of activities, including cryptocurrency exchange, sales, and the utilization of digital currencies. As the primary tax authority, FURS is responsible for the collection of various taxes associated with cryptocurrency activities in accordance with Slovenian tax legislation.

Control and supervision

FURS maintains a system of control and supervision over cryptocurrency-related tax obligations. This involves the authority's capacity to conduct reviews and audits aimed at verifying and ensuring compliance with tax laws. These reviews are essential for verifying the accuracy of income reporting and cryptocurrency transactions.

Providing information and advice

In addition to its regulatory role, FURS serves as an informative resource and advisor to stakeholders in the cryptocurrency space. The authority offers valuable information and guidance on various tax-related matters within the cryptocurrency sector. This may encompass elucidating tax rules and procedures, providing assistance to taxpayers encountering questions or challenges, and generally supporting individuals and businesses in understanding and adhering to the tax aspects of cryptocurrency operations.

FURS plays a pivotal role in the regulation of cryptocurrency activities in Slovenia. It fosters transparency and control, ensuring that cryptocurrency market participants are cognizant of their tax obligations and adhere to them rigorously.

Taxes applicable to cryptocurrency firms in Slovenia

Taxation for cryptocurrency organizations in Slovenia is subject to varying rates and conditions contingent upon certain factors, including the type of company. To ensure accurate compliance with tax regulations, it is advisable to consult tax professionals. The following are some general tax considerations that are pertinent to cryptocurrency organizations in Slovenia.

Income tax

Companies in Slovenia are subject to income tax based on their earnings. The income tax rate is not uniform and is generally around 19% for small and medium-sized enterprises and 22% for large enterprises. The precise rate may be determined by the specific characteristics of the company.

Value-added tax

For cryptocurrency companies providing goods or services that are not exempt from VAT, the calculation and payment of VAT are applicable. The standard VAT rate in Slovenia is 22%.

Capital gains tax

The standard capital gains tax rate is 19%. Typically, it is levied on transactions involving the sale of assets, including electronic assets, where the seller realizes a profit (i.e., the sale price exceeds the acquisition cost). Nevertheless, it's essential to be aware that, depending on the circumstances, the capital gains tax rate may be reduced to 0%.

Important Note!

Individual tax rates and conditions can evolve and vary from one company to another. Therefore, individuals and businesses seeking to establish a crypto venture in Slovenia are strongly recommended to consult professionals seasoned in Slovenian taxation.

Conclusion

The process of registering a cryptocurrency business in Slovenia is a prerequisite for enterprises aiming to participate in cryptocurrency activities within the country. Slovenia, although it has not yet introduced specialized cryptocurrency legislation, has established registries for entities involved in cryptocurrency activities to ensure the regulation and oversight of relevant organizations. The acquisition of a crypto license in Slovenia entails registering a company, establishing financial and operational security, and providing detailed information about the company's owners and management personnel.

A crypto license offers extensive opportunities for companies engaging in cryptocurrency business in Slovenia. These entities can facilitate cryptocurrency transactions, offer services related to blockchain technology, and attract customers and investors, thereby contributing to the development of an innovative cryptocurrency industry within the country. This, in turn, enhances the reputation and trustworthiness of cryptocurrency businesses that hold a crypto license.

Our experienced professionals are well-equipped to guide you through the entire process of obtaining authorization in the relevant jurisdiction. For a comprehensive consultation, please complete the feedback form, and we will arrange a suitable time to discuss your needs.