Individual Taxation: Cryptocurrency taxation in the Czech Republic varies depending on its use. Individuals engaged in cryptocurrency trading are typically subject to a 15% tax rate, while businesses face a higher rate of 19%. Interestingly, businesses that accept cryptocurrency payments for goods and services are often taxed similarly to their competitors who use traditional currencies like Euros. Although applying the same tax treatment to cryptocurrencies as conventional money can be complex, the Czech government emphasizes that taxpayers must make diligent efforts to understand and comply with the intricate legal framework to avoid accusations of tax evasion.
Czech nationals who sell products and services in exchange for cryptocurrencies are required to pay income taxes on these transactions. In this context, cryptocurrencies are treated similarly to traditional fiat currency. Profits derived from cryptocurrency transactions are subject to a 15% tax rate for individuals, which aligns with the tax rates applied to international payments. Transactions involving cryptocurrencies and foreign currencies are, therefore, treated in a similar tax manner. Recipients of cryptocurrencies are subject to the same tax obligations as other taxpayers, with their taxable base determined by the proceeds from cryptocurrency sales and the market value of these assets, minus any losses.
Corporate Income Tax: Companies that utilize cryptocurrencies face more substantial tax obligations compared to individuals, with a corporate income tax rate of 19%. Businesses that incorporate cryptocurrencies into their commercial activities are required to obtain an operating license and fulfill tax obligations to the Social Fund and the Health Fund to optimize their taxation. This applies to businesses whose entire business model revolves around cryptocurrencies, as well as those involved in trading cryptocurrencies on exchanges like Coinbase. For instance, cryptocurrency mining companies, which operate primarily to profit from mining cryptocurrencies, are subject to a 19% tax rate in the Czech Republic.
Despite the complexity and lack of clarity surrounding cryptocurrency taxation, the Czech government emphasizes that residents must comply with the law and avoid engaging in tax evasion. The authorities have displayed a proactive stance in pursuing taxpayers who attempt to evade taxes using Bitcoin. In 2017, the Czech government mandated strict client identification for banks, cryptocurrency exchanges, and other financial service providers. This move was aimed at enhancing transparency in cryptocurrency transactions and preventing taxpayers from exploiting cryptocurrency’s anonymity to evade taxes, underscoring the government’s commitment to combating tax evasion.
Value Added Tax (VAT): In most cases, Value Added Taxes (VAT) are not applied to cryptocurrency transactions in the Czech Republic. However, there is one exception where Czech cryptocurrency companies may be required to pay VAT. When suppliers fail to remit VAT, Czech tax authorities can seek to recover these taxes from the purchasing company. Consequently, if suppliers neglect to pay VAT, the burden of paying VAT may fall on cryptocurrency buyers. For instance, if a cryptocurrency exchange does not pay VAT, authorities may attempt to recover taxes from the cryptocurrency buyer. Nevertheless, in the majority of cryptocurrency transactions, buyers are exempt from paying VAT.
