EU Tightens Rules on Belarus People in Crypto World

The European Union is stepping up its crackdown on crypto activities linked to Belarus.
Starting in August, any Belarusian citizen or resident will be barred from:

• Owning, running, or managing crypto businesses under the EU’s MiCA framework
• Exchanges and trading platforms
• Firms offering investment advice or portfolio management

This move is part of a broader sanctions package aimed at pressuring Belarus for its support of Russia in Ukraine. The new rules will take effect a few weeks after MiCA’s transition period ends, meaning firms without EU authorisation may shut down or face penalties.

Key Restrictions for Belarus Nationals

• No controlling interest in EU‑based crypto service providers
• Cannot sit on company boards or oversee day‑to‑day operations

Services Covered by the Ban

• Running exchanges
• Handling client orders
• Holding crypto assets for customers
• Moving funds
• Providing investment guidance
• Managing portfolios

The EU is applying the same restrictions to 14 non‑EU crypto platforms, expanding its broader sanctions against Russia.

This move signals the EU’s intent to limit Belarusian influence in digital finance while tightening its overall regulatory environment for crypto services across Europe.