Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other virtual assets have gained massive popularity in India over the past few years. But with this rise comes a growing concern around taxation and regulation. While income tax on crypto gains is already in place, what about GST? In this guide, we break down the gst on cryptocurrency, whether it applies to traders, exchanges, or platforms, and how the government views digital currencies under its tax lens.
The Government of India is updating GST rates effective after 22 Sep 2025. Below are the expected new GST treatments for crypto (VDA) participants and common transactions (no compensation cess). Platform/service fees are generally under the standard 18% slab.
Type of Entity | New GST Rate | Comments |
---|---|---|
Individual investor / trader (own account) | — (No GST on buy/sell) | Out of GST scope; 30% income tax on gains + 1% TDS u/s 194S apply |
Cryptocurrency exchanges (India & offshore) | 18% | On platform fees/commissions (spot, futures, P2P, deposits, withdrawals, subscriptions) |
Crypto wallet / custody / infra services | 18% | On maintenance, transfer, and other service charges |
NFT platforms & marketplaces | 18% | On platform/service fees; NFT supplies taxed at residual 18% unless notified |
Note: From July 2025, offshore platforms offering services to Indian users are required to register and charge 18% GST on their fees.
Transaction Type | New GST Rate | Remarks |
---|---|---|
Buying/selling crypto by individual (own account) | — (No GST) | GST only on platform/service fee, not on crypto itself |
Brokerage/service fee by exchange | 18% | Standard services slab; ITC eligibility as per rules |
P2P marketplace facilitation fee | 18% | GST on platform fee only |
Crypto-to-crypto trades (own account) | — (No GST) | No GST on swap itself; platform fee at 18% if charged |
Under Indian GST law, goods are defined as movable property, and services cover anything other than goods. Since cryptocurrencies are not legal tender but are still exchanged for value, they are treated as goods or intangible assets in many contexts.
So, transactions involving cryptos are taxable under GST, but the method of taxation varies depending on the nature of the transaction.
Type of Entity | GST Applicability | Comments |
---|---|---|
Individual investor/trader | No GST on crypto sales | Income tax applies on capital gains |
Cryptocurrency exchange | Yes – 18% | On trading service fees/commissions |
Crypto wallet services | Yes – 18% | On maintenance and transfer fees |
NFT platforms & services | Yes – 18% | Applies on NFT sales, platform charges |
Transaction Type | GST Rate | Remarks |
---|---|---|
Buying/selling crypto by individual | Exempt | Treated like exchange of assets |
Brokerage fee by exchange | 18% | Platform charges service fee |
Peer-to-peer exchange platform | 18% | GST on platform fee only |
Crypto-to-crypto trades | Exempt | No GST unless platform charges a fee |
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Understanding the gst on cryptocurrency in india is key for crypto businesses, investors, and tax professionals. While trading in digital currency may seem straightforward, the tax treatment on services like exchanges, wallet management, and NFT platforms must be closely followed for compliance.