3 Countries Just Legalized Crypto: Pakistan, Jordan & Vietnam
Breaking: Three countries reversed crypto bans or restrictions in 2025, opening the doors for millions of new users. Pakistan, Jordan, and Vietnam have each introduced legal frameworks that legitimize cryptocurrency ownership, trading, and taxation for the first time.
Pakistan: The Virtual Assets Act
In July 2025, Pakistan passed the Virtual Assets Act, officially reversing the State Bank of Pakistan's 2018 ban on cryptocurrency transactions. This landmark legislation makes Pakistan the largest country by population to legalize crypto in 2025, with over 230 million people now gaining legal access to digital assets.
Pakistan Key Details
- • Law: Virtual Assets Act (passed July 2025)
- • Tax rate: 15% capital gains tax on crypto profits
- • Regulator: Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) created
- • Reverses: State Bank of Pakistan's 2018 crypto ban
- • Exchanges: Binance and HTX received No Objection Certificates (NOCs)
- • Strategic reserves: Government exploring strategic BTC reserve plans
The creation of PVARA signals Pakistan's commitment to building a structured regulatory environment. By granting NOCs to major exchanges like Binance and HTX, the government is ensuring local users have access to established global platforms. The discussion around a strategic Bitcoin reserve, while still in early stages, positions Pakistan alongside countries like El Salvador and the United States in considering BTC as a national asset.
Jordan: Law No. 14/2025
Jordan introduced its first-ever legal framework for cryptocurrency through Law No. 14/2025. This reverses the Central Bank of Jordan's (CBJ) 2014 directive that banned financial institutions from dealing with virtual currencies. Jordan now recognizes crypto as a legitimate asset class under regulated conditions.
Jordan Key Details
- • Law: Law No. 14/2025 (first legal framework)
- • Tax rate: Up to 25% capital gains tax
- • Regulator: Jordan Securities Commission (JSC) oversees VASPs
- • Reverses: Central Bank of Jordan's 2014 ban
- • Requirements: All Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) must register with JSC
- • AML/KYC: Full compliance mandated for all licensed operators
While Jordan's tax rate of up to 25% is higher than Pakistan's 15%, the creation of a clear legal framework is a significant step for the Middle East. The JSC registration requirement ensures consumer protection while allowing innovation. Jordan joins the UAE and Bahrain as MENA countries with regulated crypto markets.
Vietnam: Law on Digital Technology Industry
Vietnam passed the Law on Digital Technology Industry in June 2025, with provisions effective January 1, 2026. This law classifies cryptocurrency as property for the first time, ending years of regulatory ambiguity in one of Southeast Asia's most active crypto markets.
Vietnam Key Details
- • Law: Law on Digital Technology Industry (passed June 2025, effective Jan 2026)
- • Classification: Crypto classified as property
- • Sandbox: 5-year regulatory sandbox for crypto businesses
- • Tax: 0.1% transaction tax proposed but not yet adopted
- • Licensing: Applications now open for crypto service providers
- • Timeline: Full implementation expected through 2026-2027
Vietnam's approach is notably progressive. The 5-year regulatory sandbox gives crypto businesses room to innovate while regulators develop detailed rules. The proposed 0.1% transaction tax, while not yet formally adopted, would be one of the lowest in the world if implemented. With license applications already open, Vietnam is moving quickly to build its regulated crypto ecosystem.
Comparison: All Three Countries
| Factor | Pakistan | Jordan | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tax Rate | 15% CGT | Up to 25% CGT | 0.1% proposed (TBD) |
| Legal Status | Legal (regulated) | Legal (regulated) | Legal (property) |
| Regulator | PVARA | JSC | MIC / State Bank |
| Key Date | July 2025 | 2025 | Jan 2026 (effective) |
| Previous Status | Banned (2018) | Banned (2014) | Unregulated |
| Exchanges | Binance, HTX (NOCs) | JSC-registered VASPs | License apps open |
What This Means for Crypto Nomads
The legalization wave in these three countries creates exciting opportunities for digital nomads looking to explore emerging markets:
Early Mover Advantage
These newly regulated markets are in their infancy. Nomads with crypto expertise can find consulting opportunities, partnerships, and community-building roles in these growing ecosystems.
Low Cost of Living
All three countries offer significantly lower costs of living compared to traditional crypto hubs like Dubai or Singapore. Vietnam especially stands out with its nomad-friendly infrastructure and affordable lifestyle.
Regulatory Clarity
New legislation means fresh, modern frameworks. Unlike older jurisdictions patching outdated rules, these countries are building crypto regulation from scratch with 2025 realities in mind.
Things to Watch
- • Implementation timelines: Laws are passed, but detailed regulations are still being drafted
- • Banking access: Local banks may take time to fully integrate crypto services
- • Tax enforcement: New tax regimes may see changes in the first 1-2 years
- • Visa requirements: None of these countries have dedicated crypto or nomad visas yet
The Bigger Picture
Pakistan, Jordan, and Vietnam collectively represent over 350 million people gaining legal access to cryptocurrency. This is part of a broader global trend: countries that once banned crypto are now racing to regulate it and capture the economic benefits of the digital asset economy.
For nomads, this expansion means more destinations, more opportunities, and a growing global acceptance of crypto as a legitimate financial tool. The question is no longer whether countries will regulate crypto, but how they will do it.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on legislation passed as of January 2026. Tax laws and regulations are subject to change. Consult a licensed tax professional before making any financial or relocation decisions.