Crypto Tax in 🇮🇳 India (2026)
Updated June 2026· By Net Life Value Editorial
How a private crypto investor is taxed in India: India taxes all Virtual Digital Asset gains at a flat 30% (plus a 4% cess, about 31.2% effective) under Section 115BBH regardless of holding period, with no loss offset allowed and a 1% TDS on transfers; staking is taxed at slab rates on receipt.
Crypto tax
How India taxes a private crypto investor — not part of the NLV score
India taxes all Virtual Digital Asset gains at a flat 30% (plus a 4% cess, about 31.2% effective) under Section 115BBH regardless of holding period, with no loss offset allowed and a 1% TDS on transfers; staking is taxed at slab rates on receipt.
Crypto tax is national — these rules apply to a private individual investor, not a professional trader or company, and are not part of the NLV score. This is general information, not tax advice — rules change and depend on your residency and circumstances. Confirm with the linked tax authority or a qualified adviser.
What you would owe
Estimated tax for a private investor on a realised gain in India, by holding period. Figures in USD.
| Scenario | Rate | Tax | You keep |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 gain · Held 6 months | 30% | $3,000 | $7,000 |
| $10,000 gain · Held 2 years | 30% | $3,000 | $7,000 |
| $50,000 gain · Held 6 months | 30% | $15,000 | $35,000 |
| $50,000 gain · Held 2 years | 30% | $15,000 | $35,000 |
Simplified estimate — applies the headline rate, holding-period exemption and any annual allowance. Try the full calculator for any amount.
India crypto tax — FAQ
Is cryptocurrency tax-free in India?
No. India taxes all Virtual Digital Asset gains at a flat 30% (plus a 4% cess, about 31.2% effective) under Section 115BBH regardless of holding period, with no loss offset allowed and a 1% TDS on transfers; staking is taxed at slab rates on receipt.
How is crypto taxed in India in 2026?
India taxes all Virtual Digital Asset gains at a flat 30% (plus a 4% cess, about 31.2% effective) under Section 115BBH regardless of holding period, with no loss offset allowed and a 1% TDS on transfers; staking is taxed at slab rates on receipt. This applies to a private individual investor; professional traders and companies are taxed under different rules.
How are crypto staking rewards taxed in India?
Staking rewards are taxed as income in India.
Is there VAT on buying or selling crypto in India?
No. Exchanging crypto for fiat money or for other crypto is VAT-exempt in India.
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Data last updated: · Sources: Crypto-tax treatment reviewed 2026-06-01 from official sources — see the panel above. General information, not tax advice.. See methodology.