Belarus crypto bank rules set by new Lukashenko decree create regulated digital asset banking sector

Belarus has approved a new legal regime for the belarus crypto bank sector, aiming to connect digital assets with regulated financial services under state supervision.

New decree establishes legal basis for crypto banks

On January 16, 2026, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko signed Decree No 19, which creates a formal regulatory framework for crypto banks in the country.

The measure allows resident companies of the national High-Tech Park to combine token-related services with conventional banking operations. Moreover, it links the fast-growing digital asset market with the existing banking system.

This political move positions Belarus among the countries that are actively integrating digital assets into mainstream financial infrastructure rather than keeping them separate.

Regulatory structure and market access conditions

Under the decree, a crypto bank is defined as a joint-stock company that can simultaneously conduct operations with digital tokens and offer standard banking and payment services.

However, market entry is restricted by a dual qualification requirement. Candidate firms must first obtain High-Tech Park residency, and then secure registration in the National Bank crypto bank registry, which acts as an official list of authorized entities.

This two-level authorization process creates a dual supervision model, ensuring oversight from technology-focused authorities and traditional financial regulators. That said, it also raises the bar for new entrants that wish to participate.

Once licensed, crypto banks will operate under rules that apply to non-bank credit and financial institutions. In addition, they must comply with binding decisions issued by the Hi-Tech Park Supervisory Board, which covers the innovation side of their activities.

The combined regulatory approach is designed to address both technological risk and financial stability. Moreover, it provides a structured environment for digital asset integration into the broader financial system of Belarus.

Registration criteria create explicit entry barriers for potential players. Only joint-stock companies that meet the decree’s conditions can be admitted to this specialized segment of the financial market.

This focus on institutional structures indicates that regulators favor larger, organized market participants rather than individual operators or very small companies.

Operational model and product offering potential

The new rules aim to enable a crypto bank framework where institutions can design hybrid financial products that merge traditional banking advantages with digital token technology.

Customers are expected to gain access to services that combine established banking security with the speed and transparency of blockchain-based transactions. However, these offerings must remain within the boundaries of existing financial rules.

In practice, every crypto bank must comply with standard financial institution requirements while deploying token-based instruments. The decree therefore does not replace conventional banking regulation but extends it to cover token operations.

Throughout their lifecycle, financial institutions will have to deal with obligations set by more than one supervisory body. Moreover, this complex environment is intended to keep innovation aligned with policy objectives and risk management standards.

The belarus crypto bank framework places the country among jurisdictions that promote financial technology development while insisting on structured regulatory oversight.

Unlike regions that draw a strict line between crypto activities and traditional banking, Belarus allows controlled integration when clearly defined conditions are fulfilled.

This policy direction reflects a broader international trend, where lawmakers recognize that token-based banking and related services require tailored yet connected regulation instead of complete separation from established financial systems.

In summary, Decree No 19 sets out a detailed regime for crypto banks in Belarus, combining High-Tech Park innovation policies with National Bank supervision to support regulated digital asset services.