Bosnia and Herzegovina crypto license
Last Update: 12.11.2025
Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of Southeast Europe’s most promising jurisdictions for crypto business. The authorities are actively developing a legal framework for blockchain startups, IT companies, investors, and attracting alternative for VASPs. Obtaining a Bosnia and Herzegovina crypto license is a strong choice for those looking to expand their business and operate legally in the Balkans. Gofaizen & Sherle will provide a professional approach to licensing crypto activities and launching an innovative business.
The government of Bosnia and Herzegovina, seeing enormous potential in IT companies and the crypto sector, has created favorable investment conditions and a legal framework based on the FATF global standards, MiCA. In February 2024, the AML/CFT Law was adopted, which, in addition to introducing mandatory FATF rules, defined the concept of VASP.
A crypto license in Bosnia and Herzegovina allows operators to legally offer the following services:
- Conversion operations – crypto/crypto, crypto/fiat.
- Launch trading platforms and provide diversified trading tools.
- Custodial services and management of clients’ crypto investment portfolios.
- Secure transactions between wallets.
- Token sale services, ICO.
Advantages of Crypto License in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Strategically advantageous location.
Fintech companies not only have access to the Balkan market but also the opportunity to establish business ties with EC countries.
Legal status without the need to comply with MiCA rules.
The country is only seeking to join the EU, so strict EU legislation does not apply to local crypto investors.
A wide range of crypto services.
The jurisdiction allows crypto companies to officially offer their clients a variety of services, from trading and exchange to ICOs.
Optimal crypto business registration process.
Minimal capital requirements, no need to rent a local office, and entry into the state register within a few days make the registration process not only cost-effective but also fast, which is especially attractive to startups with low budgets.
Effective taxation.
Crypto businesses enjoy favorable tax rates: 10% income tax (CIT), exchange and transactions are exempt from VAT, and there is no tax on dividends.
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Key Aspects of a Crypto Business in Bosnia and Herzegovina
At present, there is no specific legislation regulating the entire crypto licensing process in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The country’s central bank does not recognize virtual currencies as legal tender, but it also does not prohibit their trade and exchange. No VAT is levied on transactions in digital currencies (similar to EU legislation). There is also no direct ban on mining, and no fintech regulation has been adopted regarding NFTs.
However, in the Republika Srpska (an administrative unit of BiH), in 2022, according to the Law on the Securities Market, cryptocurrencies were given official status as digital records of value with the possibility of exchange. Also, in 2020, the Digital Assets Act was adopted, which set standards for working with cryptocurrencies.
Cryptocurrencies are gaining popularity among the local population—4.3% are owners, there are several BTC ATMs, and the Adriatic Crypto Exchange (ACX) operates with the ability to trade 15 digital assets. Overall, the cryptocurrency market is estimated at $3.2 million.
Requirements for Obtaining a Bosnia and Herzegovina Crypto License
Bosnia and Herzegovina crypto regulation aims to create a transparent environment for companies and protect the interests of customers.
Key requirements for crypto applicants:
- Legal entity structure. IBCs are not eligible for crypto operation licenses, so registration of a local company is required. However, there are no requirements for capital or office space.
- Registration with government agencies. All registered companies must register with the Tax Service, the Statistical Office, and the Securities Commission.
- Deposit initial capital into a local bank account. It is permitted to deposit the authorized capital into a bank account (approximately 29 local banks) opened only in this jurisdiction; subsequently, it is permitted to work with banks in any country.
- AML/KYC procedures. Bosnia crypto compliance is an internal policy aimed at complying with FATF recommendations, so companies are required to develop and implement all necessary AML/CFT procedures. The company must also have an AML manager with the appropriate professional qualifications and experience.
- Criteria for hiring a manager. The key manager must be either a resident or have a “white card” – a residence and business permit, and the manager must be present when the account is opened.
Step-by-Step Process for Getting a Crypto License in Bosnia and Herzegovina
A Crypto License in Bosnia and Herzegovina requires applicants to comply with all regulatory standards and formalities. The jurisdiction is fairly simple for starting a legal business, but it is important to follow a step-by-step plan:
Preparatory phase.
Stage 1
Initially, the applicant must:
- Decide on the type of activity.
- Establish the initial capital.
- Decide who will manage the entire business process.
- Choose a name and register it.
Creation of a fintech company.
Stage 2
At this stage, the following takes place:
- Preparation of basic documents: Articles of Association, Memorandum.
- Schedule of AML/KYC procedures.
- Appoint a manager, obtain their written statement of acceptance of the position, and copies of their documents. When hiring a non-resident, a certificate of residence is required.
- Deposit the initial capital (only to a local bank account).
- Obtain a certificate of no tax arrears.
- Apply for registration.
Start a crypto business in Bosnia.
Stage 3
A license can be obtained after the company has been registered and AML/CFT procedures have been established. The Securities Commission reviews the application with:
- attached documents;
- specified information about the AML manager;
- receipts for paid fees (approximately €500).
Cost of obtaining a crypto license in Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Full turnkey company formation assistance (inc. gov. fees, and notary fees);
- Address of registration for 1 year;
- Registration as VASP within the Security Commission;
- Opening a Special Purpose account in a local bank;
- Set of corporate documents in Serbian language;
- Standard AML/KYC Policy.
- All services from the Basic Package;
- Set of corporate documents with an apostille and translation to English language;
- Corporate account opening in a European EMI (segregated B2B/B2C accounts, multicurrency accounts);
- Search, integration, and employment agreement with local AML officer;
- Personalized AML/KYC Policy.
- All services from the Advanced Package;
- Assistance with “white card” obtainment for a Director;
- Providing legal assistance in setting up KYC/KYT providers;
- Open office space for 1 year;
- Legal opinion confirming the company’s status.
Role and Responsibilities of VASP Providers in Bosnia and Herzegovina
When applying for a crypto license, applicants should keep in mind the key points they may encounter in their future activities, as well as those that will be monitored by Bosnia’s chief financial regulator:
| Obtaining a crypto license | A mandatory requirement for all those wishing to offer services related to virtual assets in the jurisdiction. |
|---|---|
| AML/KYC Rules | Mandatory for all participants in the financial sector. Crypto operators must hire an AML officer to monitor transactions and submit reports to the Regulator, as well as implement systems for identifying customers and their financial transactions. |
| Registration with government agencies | Crypto companies must register with the Tax Service, the Statistical Bureau, and the Securities Commission. |
| Taxes | 10% corporate income tax(CIT) |
| Annual reporting standards | Mandatory maintenance of financial and tax records, as well as reporting on all types of crypto transactions. |
Crypto law Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina crypto regulation is a set of legislative norms (there is no separately adopted VASP law) that must be observed by participants in the financial sector:
| Regulatory framework for crypto operations | Regulatory control of the financial sector |
|---|---|
| The Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act of February 16, 2024, strengthened customer verification and transaction monitoring controls, introduced the concept of VASP (types of possible services) and the obligations of crypto operators, identified PEPs, and limited cash transactions to €15,000. Cryptocurrency is not recognized as a legal means of payment, but it can be transferred, exchanged, or stored. |
The Law on the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina outlined the powers of regulators regarding the control of all monetary transactions (foreign currency, cryptocurrency). |
| The 2022 Law on the Securities Market (Republic of Serbia) defined the status of cryptocurrencies and the regulation of service providers. The Rules of the Republic of Srpska on the Registration of Service Providers Related to Virtual Currencies clarified the stages of state registration. |
The National Payment Transactions Act was introduced to designate methods for controlling and processing all payment systems, including cryptocurrency transactions. |
| The Digital Assets Act of 2020 detailed the types of transactions involving cryptocurrencies. | The Banking Act was adopted to regulate the activities of all financial institutions, as well as their work with fintech companies. |
Mining is subject to commercial activity regulations; regulatory acts regarding NFTs have not yet been adopted.
Taxation and reporting for crypto business in Bosnia and Herzegovina
There is no separate Crypto law in Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding the taxation of digital assets; general tax law applies.
- 10% income tax.
- VAT does not apply to crypto transactions (exchange, transactions).
- 13% on capital gains.
According to the Accounting Act, all commercial organizations are required to maintain financial, tax, and statistical records.
In addition, fintech companies must submit:
- A log of all transactions.
- A customer verification report.
- A report on suspicious transactions detected.
Potential risks for crypto operators in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia’s crypto business opportunities are truly enormous, as the market is accessible to a multi-million audience and a loyal government apparatus.
However, it is important not to forget about the risks, such as:
- There is no specific legislation in place that clearly regulates crypto operators, which introduces some uncertainty and increases the risk of fraud.
- There is no special license for fintech companies.
- The status of cryptocurrencies and their legal protection is undefined.
- There is a lack of consistency between the legislative norms of BiH and the Republika Srpska.
- Working with the banking system is difficult, as many banks refuse to work with digital currencies.
Conclusion
The country’s legislation on innovative products is still developing and faces certain challenges regarding the introduction and adoption of digital assets into its financial environment. However, the new AML Law has set out a path forward aimed at increasing transparency and security. For investors and entrepreneurs, a crypto license is an opportunity to enter the Balkan market, a nascent market with loyal legislation and interested users.
FAQ about Crypto license in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Who is required to obtain a crypto license in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
To carry out any activity related to cryptocurrencies (exchange, trading, storage), legal entities must apply to the Securities Commission for official permission to operate in the jurisdiction.
How long does it take to obtain a Bosnia and Herzegovina crypto license?
The Securities Commission makes a decision fairly quickly, within 1-2 months.
Do AML/KYC procedures need to be followed?
Yes, the AML Law was adopted in 2024, which requires all fintech companies to verify their customers, keep records of suspicious transactions, and hire an AML manager.
What are the main benefits of obtaining a Bosnia and Herzegovina crypto license?
Legal entities will have the opportunity to operate legally in a new, growing market where there are no strict MiCA regulations.
What is the status of cryptocurrencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The legal status of cryptocurrencies is undefined, but they are not prohibited. The central bank allows exchange, trading, and payments in digital currencies. There are also several BTC ATMs in the country.