Italy, the world’s eighth-largest economy, places a strong emphasis on innovation. The government invests over €25 billion annually in research and development, positioning Italy among Europe’s top four countries in R&D expenditure. Cryptocurrency companies also benefit from various forms of financial support, including tax incentives and relief programs.
The Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate) oversees tax compliance, ensuring that individuals and businesses meet their fiscal responsibilities. While Italy has not yet introduced a specific tax framework for cryptocurrencies, general tax rules apply to crypto-related activities.
Tax residents in Italy are subject to taxation on worldwide income, while non-resident companies are taxed only on income generated within Italy. A company is considered a tax resident if its registered office, effective management, or primary business operations are located in Italy for the majority of the fiscal year.
Tax Incentives and International Agreements
To foster a fair and attractive business environment, Italy has signed more than 90 international agreements aimed at eliminating double taxation on income and capital. Non-resident taxpayers can claim refunds if domestic taxes exceed the limits set by these treaties.
Incentives such as capital grants, soft loans, and tax credits are available to eligible businesses. Support is particularly strong for research and development, with a 25% tax credit for private R&D investments—increasing to 50% for projects conducted with universities or research institutions. Energy efficiency improvements and investments in machinery also qualify for tax reductions.
Additional incentives target job creation for women and young people, as well as intangible asset-based income. Companies operating in Southern Italy may benefit from even more substantial public support.
Corporate Taxation: IRES and IRAP
Companies in Italy are subject to two primary taxes:
- Corporate Income Tax (IRES) at a rate of 24%
- Regional Production Tax (IRAP) at a base rate of 3.9%
Annual tax returns must be filed electronically within 11 months after the end of the fiscal year. Advance tax payments are made in two instalments: 40% of the prior year’s tax liability is due in the sixth month, and the remaining 60% by the eleventh month.
Crypto Activities and Corporate Tax
The Italian Revenue Agency has provided the following guidance for cryptocurrency-related corporate activities:
- Profits from cryptocurrency trading are subject to both IRES and IRAP
- Tax losses can offset gains within the same fiscal year or be carried forward, subject to an 80% cap of relevant income
- Mined cryptocurrencies are taxed at their market value upon receipt
- Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) are not considered taxable events
- Utility tokens are taxed based on income from related products or services
- Security tokens do not receive specific tax treatment
It’s important to note that EU-wide regulations also apply to crypto assets in Italy. 👉 Explore tailored tax strategies for your business
Withholding Tax Regulations
Withholding tax rates and applicability depend on several factors:
- Dividends paid to resident individuals are generally subject to a 26% withholding tax
- Payments to non-resident companies or individuals without a permanent establishment in Italy are subject to a final 26% withholding tax on dividends, interest, and royalties
- Reduced rates or exemptions may apply under EU directives or double taxation treaties
- Dividends distributed to EU/EEA corporate shareholders are subject to a 1.2% domestic final withholding tax
Capital Gains Tax on Crypto Assets
In December 2022, the Italian Senate approved new tax regulations for cryptocurrency gains. Effective from 2023, a 26% tax applies to gains exceeding €2,000 per year. Capital gains or losses arise from the disposal or change of ownership of crypto assets.
Transactions considered disposals include:
- Selling crypto assets for fiat currency
- Exchanging one cryptocurrency for another (including stablecoins and NFTs)
- Using cryptocurrency to pay for goods or services
Value Added Tax (VAT) Treatment
Italy's standard VAT rate is 22%, applicable to goods and services supplied within Italy, as well as imports. For crypto-related activities, the Italian Revenue Agency follows the European Court of Justice ruling that cryptocurrency exchange services qualify for VAT exemption under the monetary exemption.
The agency has also clarified that ICOs receive the same VAT treatment as vouchers, meaning tokens issued during an ICO are not subject to VAT at the point of issuance—VAT applies when tokens are used.
In 2022, the EU VAT Committee examined VAT liabilities arising from crypto assets, concluding that activities such as mining, minting, airdrops, and token modifications remain outside VAT scope. However, cryptocurrency wallet services provided for a fee are subject to VAT.
Supplies of goods or services paid for with cryptocurrency receive the same VAT treatment as those paid with fiat currency.
Social Security Contributions
Social security contribution rules primarily depend on employment relationships. Crypto companies must consider regulations for employees and executives specifically.
Total social security contributions amount to approximately 40% of gross salary, with employers contributing 30% and employees 10%. About 33% of the total rate funds the national pension system, with the remainder allocated to unemployment, maternity, social mobility, and sickness funds (the latter two not applicable to executives).
International Tax Transparency Framework
Italy's crypto business owners should stay informed about international tax developments, as Italy complies with evolving global regulations. The OECD recently introduced the Crypto Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), designed to enhance tax transparency through automatic reporting and information exchange between jurisdictions.
CARF applies to entities providing services involving crypto-to-crypto, crypto-to-fiat, and fiat-to-crypto transactions, including retail payment transactions. Italian crypto businesses must be prepared to accurately report transaction information to the Italian Revenue Agency, which may share this data with foreign tax authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are cryptocurrency profits taxed for individuals in Italy?
Individuals are subject to a 26% capital gains tax on profits exceeding €2,000 annually from cryptocurrency disposals. This includes trading, exchanging, and using crypto for payments.
Do I need to declare crypto-to-crypto trades?
Yes, exchanging one cryptocurrency for another constitutes a taxable event. You must calculate gains or losses based on market values at the time of each transaction.
What records should I maintain for tax purposes?
Keep detailed records of all transactions, including dates, values in EUR, purpose of transactions, and counterparty information. This is essential for accurate tax reporting.
Are there any tax exemptions for small crypto investors?
The €2,000 threshold provides a de minimis exemption—only gains exceeding this amount are taxable. Losses can be carried forward to offset future gains.
How does Italy treat cryptocurrency mining for tax purposes?
Mined cryptocurrencies are taxed as income at their market value upon receipt. Mining expenses may be deductible against this income.
What is the deadline for reporting cryptocurrency taxes?
The tax year follows the calendar year. Declarations must be filed electronically by November 30 of the following year.
Conclusion
Italy's approach to cryptocurrency taxation continues to evolve alongside market developments and international standards. While the absence of a dedicated crypto tax framework creates some complexity, existing rules provide clarity on most activities. Businesses and individuals should maintain meticulous records, stay informed about regulatory changes, and consider professional advice to ensure compliance.
The integration of EU regulations and international standards like CARF will likely bring further changes to Italy's crypto tax landscape. Proactive planning and compliance remain essential for navigating this dynamic environment successfully.