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The whole tax advantage of cryptocurrencies in Switzerland rests on one status: that of private investor. If the administration classifies you as a professional securities trader, your gains become taxable.
Private investor: your capital gains are tax-exempt and, in return, your losses are not deductible. All that counts each year is the value of your cryptocurrencies as at 31 December.
Professional trader: your gains become income from self-employment, taxable at all three levels (Confederation, canton, commune) and subject to AHV/AVS social security contributions. In return, your losses and expenses become deductible.
You do not choose this status: it is established from the way you operate.
Circular no. 36 of the Federal Tax Administration defines a safe harbour. If you meet all five criteria at once, your status as a private investor is guaranteed:
Exchanging one cryptocurrency for another is not taxed, but it counts towards the transaction volume: very frequent exchanges bring you closer to the limit.
Missing one criterion is not enough to reclassify you. The administration then looks at all the circumstances: how often you trade, the link with your profession, the use of borrowing or derivatives, the time you spend on it. The decision is made case by case.
If you are close to the limit, or if a reclassification would have significant consequences for you, ask a tax adviser before filing your tax return. Fiscoin explains the rules, but does not replace personal advice.
The frequently asked questions and the glossary cover these concepts. The free guide Understand explains them in detail.
Page updated on 22 October 2026. Tax rules and the practice of the administrations may change: we update this page regularly, but rely on its date and, if in doubt, check with your cantonal administration.