PiS Draft Tightens Cryptocurrency Rules in Poland

11 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A PiS bill seeks strict cryptocurrency regulations Poland could enforce, with heavy penalties and broad debate. What expats should know.

A PiS-backed draft law landed in the Sejm that would tighten cryptocurrency regulations Poland currently uses. Consequently, the proposal has sparked broad debate among politicians and experts.

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Cryptocurrency regulations Poland: What the bill proposes

The draft would treat many crypto activities as unfair market practices. Moreover, it would expand the definition of prohibited conduct. The bill also envisions sanctions for operators and individuals. Therefore, lawmakers propose penalties including prison terms from six months to eight years. However, authors wrote that strong measures will protect consumers and the financial system.

Why lawmakers say change is needed

Authors argued that the crypto market grows fast. In addition, they pointed to high anonymity and hard-to-identify transaction participants. Consequently, they warned of risks to market stability. Moreover, they claimed current oversight tools fall short. Therefore, the draft aims to improve consumer protection and law enforcement reach.

Political and legal hurdles

Support for the bill changed during initial procedure. Some MPs withdrew support. As a result, the draft may not meet formal requirements to proceed. However, the debate will continue. Moreover, legal experts said courts and regulators may challenge parts of the proposal. In addition, the European Union already works on crypto rules that could limit national measures.

Impact on businesses and innovation

Firms in Poland worry about uncertain rules. Moreover, startups fear that heavy sanctions will deter investment. Therefore, some say the bill would push activity offshore. However, proponents argue that clear rules can boost trust. In addition, the direction of regulation will affect fintech hubs in Warsaw and other cities.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: Poland uses a civil law system and its parliament, the Sejm, crafts national laws. For expats, note that Polish administrative codes reference institutions like ZUS (social insurance fund), NFZ (national health fund) and PESEL (national ID number). Consequently, any business licensing or enforcement can require local registrations. Moreover, if you hold crypto in Poland, monitor rule changes. Therefore, consult a local lawyer or tax advisor before launching operations.

Experts stress balance is key. Moreover, the global trend shows regulation tends to both constrain and formalise crypto markets. However, the Polish approach may prove uniquely strict. In addition, the debate touches on broader questions of innovation, consumer safety and state control. Therefore, the final shape of the law will matter not only to traders, but also to startups, investors and foreign workers in Poland.

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