Crypto law

Crypto law in United Kingdom

Oldest entry on this page last reviewed 10 July 2026

Not legal advice. General information only, not legal advice. Crypto law changes quickly and varies within jurisdictions. Verify with a qualified local lawyer before acting. Each statement carries its primary source and the date we last reviewed it.

Legal status

Legal, regulated

Legal. Firms must register with the FCA for anti-money-laundering purposes.

Crypto is lawful to own and trade. Cryptoasset businesses operating in the UK must be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority under the Money Laundering Regulations. Financial promotions of cryptoassets are subject to the FCA’s promotion rules.

Regulator: Financial Conduct Authority
Register: Official register ↗

Last reviewed 10 July 2026 by Craig Winder

Capital gains tax

Legal, regulated

Disposals are subject to Capital Gains Tax.

HMRC treats most individual crypto activity as investment, subject to Capital Gains Tax on disposal. Mining, staking and airdrops may be income depending on the facts.

Regulator: HM Revenue & Customs

Last reviewed 10 July 2026 by Craig Winder

Exchanges in United Kingdom

Which exchanges quote GBP, and their licensing position.

Exchanges available in United Kingdom

Spotted an error?

Law changes faster than we publish. If something here is out of date, tell us and we will correct it publicly, with the date.

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