Belarus took a major step on January 16, 2026, when President Aleksandr Lukashenko signed Decree No. 19 to lay down rules for so-called “cryptobanks.” This move creates a clear legal environment for companies that want to mix token services with traditional banking and payment services.
Resolution Explains Cryptobanks and Laws
According to this law, a cryptobank is a joint stock company that may perform token operations alongside banking, payment and other financial services.
Reports revealed that these companies must be residents of the Belarus High-Tech Park (HTP) and will be listed in a special register maintained by the National Bank.
The new document links the status of the cryptobank to the tenure of the HTP, which aims to concentrate work in a recognized technical area. That requirement also means that HTP rules will play a role in day-to-day monitoring.
Market Entry Requirements
Based on reports from regulators, cryptobanks will face dual supervision: supervision from both the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus and the governing bodies of the HTP. This twin structure is designed to allow token services to grow while maintaining close control of financial risks.
Officials say cryptobanks will follow many of the rules that apply to non-bank credit and financial institutions, including capital standards, risk controls and anti-money laundering checks.
That suggests applicants will have to demonstrate robust compliance systems before being accepted into the registry.
Image: Altorise
Belarus: Short-Term Business Plans
National Bank officials said the law could be followed by real market action soon. Aliaksandr Yahorau, First Vice-Chairman of the National Bank, said that Belarus could see its first operational cryptobank within six months after the rules and regulations are aligned.
He added that cryptobanks can issue loans secured by cryptocurrency, offer payment cards linked to crypto accounts, and allow self-employed people to receive wages in tokens.
What’s Next for Belarus
This decision builds on previous efforts to attract tech and crypto business to Belarus, and clearly shows the state’s interest in bringing token activity under legal control.
The next steps will include the drafting of implementing regulations, creating a special registration at the National Bank, and determining the amount and limits of licensing for applicants.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
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