Belarus Welcomes First Crypto Banks Under New Regulatory Framework

Belarus has registered its first two crypto banks under the country's new regulatory framework. The institutions, which are residents of the High-Tech Park (HTP), obtained residency in January and will need to obtain approval from the National Bank's registry before starting operations.

The new framework, established by Presidential Decree No. 19, allows a single entity to manage fiat currency deposits, digital asset custody, and token-based transfers. This approach sets Belarus apart from other jurisdictions that treat crypto and banking licenses as separate regulatory domains.

The two institutions have not been publicly identified, but authorities described them only as operators with proven experience in the sector. They must complete a second step: registration in the National Bank's specific registry before commencing operations, which is expected in the second half of 2026.