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Portugal: crypto & digital assets regulation

Regulated

Portugal VASP registration under Law 83/2017; Banco de Portugal AML oversight

Lead regulator:
Banco de Portugal
Key law:
Law No. 83/2017
Last updated:
2026-07-12

Virtual asset service providers (VASPs) in Portugal are subject to a mandatory registration regime overseen by the Banco de Portugal. This framework is primarily driven by anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) obligations rather than a dedicated crypto licensing act.

Entities providing services with virtual assets must register with the central bank under Article 112-A of Law No. 83/2017. The regulatory focus is on ensuring compliance with preventive duties, with specific procedural requirements detailed in Banco de Portugal notices.

Recent regulatory activity includes the issuance of Notice No. 1/2023, which updates AML/CFT compliance aspects for VASPs, building upon the registration procedures established in Notice No. 3/2021. The regime aligns national rules with broader EU and international AML standards.

Who regulates

  • Banco de Portugal

    Primary supervisor for VASP registration and AML/CFT compliance

    [1][2]

Core laws & rules

  • Law No. 83/2017 (2017)

    Establishes the legal framework for AML/CFT, including Article 112-A which mandates the registration of virtual asset service providers.

    [2]

Licensing & registration

  • VASP Registration

    Mandatory registration with the Banco de Portugal for entities exercising activities with virtual assets to ensure AML/CFT compliance.

    [2]

Restrictions & warnings

  • Entities must comply with preventive duties against money laundering and terrorist financing as outlined in Banco de Portugal notices.

    [1]

Direction of travel

  • Regulatory framework continues to evolve through central bank notices to align with AML/CFT standards, such as the update in Notice No. 1/2023.

    [1]

Sources

  1. Notice No. 1/2023 · 2023-01-01
  2. Notice No. 3/2021 · 2021-01-01

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This guide is compiled automatically from 2 primary-source documents published by Portugal's regulators, reviewed by RegAlert, and refreshed monthly (last updated 2026-07-12). It is not legal advice — always confirm requirements with the regulator or local counsel before acting.