Bitcoin in Ireland: rules, tax and how it's priced
In Ireland bitcoin is quoted in euros per 1 BTC (BTC/EUR), and small amounts are often given as a fraction of a bitcoin or in satoshis (100 million sats = 1 BTC). The figures on this page are the international BTC/USD price converted at today's EUR/USD exchange rate, before exchange fees, spreads and any local premium.
Is bitcoin legal in Ireland? Central Bank and MiCA
Owning and trading bitcoin is legal in Ireland, but it is not legal tender. From 2021 crypto firms had to register with the Central Bank of Ireland as virtual asset service providers (VASPs) under anti-money-laundering law. Since 30 December 2024 crypto-asset service providers have been regulated under the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), with the Central Bank as the national authority. Ireland chose a 12-month transitional period: registered VASPs without MiCA authorisation had to stop operating by 30 December 2025. Since then any firm serving Irish customers needs MiCA authorisation from the Central Bank or from another EU regulator.
How is bitcoin taxed in Ireland?
Revenue applies the normal tax rules to crypto-assets. For most individuals, selling bitcoin, exchanging it for another crypto-asset or using it to pay for goods or services is a disposal for Capital Gains Tax (CGT). The first €1,270 of an individual's total gains each year is exempt. Budget 2027 announced a cut in the standard CGT rate from 33% to 31% for disposals made on or after 7 October 2026, so earlier disposals are taxed at 33%; the change is being legislated in the Finance Bill. CGT is paid in two instalments: by 15 December for disposals from January to November, and by 31 January for December disposals, with the return due by 31 October of the following year. If your activity amounts to trading, profits are taxed as income instead, and crypto received from employment or mining is taxable income.
Buying bitcoin in Ireland and DAC8
Irish residents buy bitcoin in euros through MiCA-authorised exchanges and brokers. Check the Central Bank of Ireland's registers or the ESMA register to confirm a provider is authorised, and remember that MiCA protections apply only to the authorised EU entity you contract with. Bitcoin exchange-traded products listed on European exchanges are available through some brokers. Since 1 January 2026, under the EU directive DAC8, crypto-asset service providers must collect information on their users and report their transactions to the tax authorities, and Revenue will receive data on Irish residents from providers across the EU, starting with 2026 data in 2027.
Legal and tax information last reviewed October 2026. Crypto rules change quickly — check with the regulator or tax authority, or a qualified adviser, before acting. This is not tax, legal or investment advice.