India Cryptocurrency Tax
Detailed cryptocurrency tax rates and rules for India in 2026.
India introduced a specific tax framework for Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) including cryptocurrencies effective April 1, 2022. All gains from the transfer of VDAs are taxed at a flat 30% (plus applicable surcharge and cess), with no deduction allowed except the cost of acquisition. No set-off of losses against other income or carry-forward of crypto losses is permitted.
Crypto Tax Status
Taxed
Treatment
Virtual Digital Assets (VDA)
Additional Notes
A 1% Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) under Section 194S applies to all VDA transfers exceeding INR 10,000 per year (INR 50,000 for specified persons). Gifts of VDAs are taxable in the hands of the recipient. The 30% tax applies regardless of the individual's income tax slab, making it one of the highest crypto tax rates globally. India has also been exploring a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), the digital rupee.
How India Crypto Tax compares
India taxes cryptocurrency gains. 68 of 203 countries TaxAtlas tracks take the same approach, which is useful context when weighing where to live, invest, or incorporate.
