Is Monero legal in the United Kingdom?
Legal to own, but no mainstream FCA-registered exchange offers it.
| Owning XMR | Legal |
|---|---|
| Local exchanges | Delisted by licensed exchanges |
| National rule | No specific rule on privacy coins |
| Regulator | Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); HMRC |
| Last reviewed | 25 October 2026 |
The legal situation in the United Kingdom
The UK has no law banning Monero or privacy coins, and owning XMR is legal. FCA-registered crypto firms must meet AML and travel-rule obligations, and in practice the main UK-facing exchanges do not offer XMR. Kraken delisted XMR for UK customers in November 2021, citing compliance. The EU AMLR does not apply to the UK.
Key facts
- 2021-11-26: Kraken told UK customers that XMR trading and deposits would end after 26 Nov 2021, citing UK regulatory compliance.
- 2024-02-20: Binance removed XMR worldwide.
- 2026-03-05: A CCN survey listed the UK as having no direct ban, with FCA registration and AML expectations leading platforms to avoid privacy coins.
- Tax: Gains are subject to capital gains tax at 18% or 24% with a GBP 3,000 annual exemption; staking and mining are taxed as income.
What this means for you
Owning Monero in your own wallet is legal, but regulated exchanges here do not list it or are being pushed to drop it. If you hold XMR on an exchange, read what to do when an exchange delists Monero and move it to a wallet you control. Only use buying routes that are legal where you live; see how to buy Monero.
Sources
ambcrypto.com, bitcoin.tax, ccn.com, theblock.co.
Sources are listed by publisher so you can look them up yourself; we do not link out.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Monero legal in the United Kingdom?
Legal to own, but no mainstream FCA-registered exchange offers it.
Can I buy Monero on a local exchange in the United Kingdom?
No. Licensed exchanges here have delisted XMR or may not list it.