Vietnam will officially recognize cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum as digital assets starting January 1, 2026. This marks a historic milestone in legal policy, opening the door for Vietnam’s crypto market to become more transparent, sustainable, and secure. Whether you own cryptocurrencies, invest in blockchain projects, or simply are interested in the field, this article will help you understand upcoming changes and prepare accordingly.

What’s Changed Now That Vietnam Recognizes Digital Assets?

The Vietnamese Parliament’s approval of the Digital Technology Industry Law is the first legal milestone to remove millions of crypto holders from a long-standing “legal gray zone.” From January 1, 2026, assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum will be considered civil assets, protected by law in ownership rights, transfers, and dispute resolution.

Clear Classification of Digital Assets

The new law defines three categories:

Virtual assets: reward points or in-game items.
Cryptocurrencies: digital currencies like Bitcoin and ETH.
Other digital assets: NFTs or tokens with undefined functions.

This classification is vital for defining owner rights and obligations under legal frameworks.

Why Vietnam’s Law Matters to the Crypto Market

Eliminating Legal Ambiguity

Previously, crypto investments in Vietnam lacked official recognition, causing investor and business concerns. The new law creates a clear legal framework, enabling more secure trading and investment.

Fostering Local Blockchain Ecosystem

With clear legal guidance, local tech startups no longer need to move projects abroad. This allows Vietnam to retain talent, attract international investment, and elevate its regional blockchain status.

Enhancing Oversight and Tax Revenue

Legalizing digital assets allows authorities to monitor transactions and enforce transparent taxation—an important step in protecting the digital economy and mitigating financial risks.

What Should Businesses and Investors Prepare by 1/1/2026?

The legalization of digital assets is a golden opportunity—but only for those who prepare now. From individual investors and blockchain startups to firms planning to integrate crypto into operations, everyone must act before the deadline.

For Blockchain Companies and Exchanges

These businesses should promptly:

Prepare legal documentation for operating digital asset services.
Establish strong KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) systems.
Build secure, transparent blockchain platforms.

Early preparation ensures compliance once the law takes effect.

For Individual Investors

Crypto holders should:

Keep detailed records of transactions, invoices, and wallet details.
Stay updated on regulatory and tax changes.
Organize clear financial ledgers, especially with large asset holdings.

This helps protect rights and avoids risks if authorities request documentation.

For Businesses Using Stablecoins or Tokens

Even though not covered initially, companies should:

Set up dedicated accounting processes for digital assets.
Implement transparent data storage systems.
Proactively categorize various asset types.

This forward planning will give them a head start when regulations expand.

5 Practical Tips to Stay Ahead in the New Crypto Era

In a shifting legal landscape, information alone isn’t enough—practical application is key to avoiding risks and seizing opportunities. Here are five field-tested tips from advising blockchain startups, exchanges, and individual investors:

Document Every Transaction
Record dates, amounts, asset types, and equivalent value to prepare for disputes or tax checks.
Maintain Separate Crypto Accounting
Businesses should log crypto assets separately for clear auditing and transparency.
Ensure KYC/AML Compliance
Critical for exchanges and blockchain startups, this groundwork is essential to secure legal operation.
Correctly Identify Asset Types
Misclassification can lead to wrong legal treatment and avoidable damage.
Prepare for Tax Requirements
Proactively plan for tax declarations and estimated costs to avoid future complications.

Conclusion

From January 1, 2026, Vietnam enters a new era of legalized and transparent digital assets. This provides a huge opportunity—but also tests the readiness of businesses and investors. Those who act early will gain a clear competitive edge in this high-stakes, rapidly evolving digital landscape.

DEDICA Law Firm – Your legal partner in digital transformation and blockchain markets. With rich experience advising on digital assets, tech startups, and financial investment, we support you from legal documentation to dispute resolution in the crypto field.

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Vietnam Legalizes Cryptocurrency from 2026 – Opportunities and Challenges for Investors