The Bank of Italy has issued a directive requiring all crypto-asset service providers to verify every transaction against sanctions lists. This mandate removes any minimum transaction value thresholds, ensuring that even the smallest transfers undergo full screening procedures.
The new requirement aligns with the European Banking Authority guidelines EBA/GL/2024/15, which became effective in Italy on December 30, 2025. Providers must now screen both the originator and the beneficiary for every crypto transfer, with no exceptions allowed for speed or transaction type.
Failure to comply with these regulations carries significant risks, including both administrative and criminal penalties under Italian law. The central bank emphasized that existing exemptions for traditional instant payments do not apply to the cryptocurrency sector.
As of mid-2026, nine entities are authorized to provide crypto services in Italy. These firms must now upgrade their compliance infrastructure and integrate real-time sanctions databases to meet the regulator's enforcement standards following the conclusion of the MiCA transitional regime on June 30, 2026.
