Why USDT are banned in the EU

Content
In 2024, the share of stablecoins in the total volume of cryptocurrency transactions in Europe exceeded 58%. However, from July 1, 2025, the world’s largest stablecoin: USDT from Tether Limited: will be banned from trading on European exchanges and in transactions between companies. For many entrepreneurs and financial directors, this is not just news, but a challenge that could change the structure of international settlements, approaches to liquidity management, and even investment strategy. Why has the USDT ban in the EU become a reality, how are the new MiCA Regulation rules radically changing the market, and what steps should businesses take to maintain their competitive advantage?

Today, companies are faced not only with the need to quickly adapt to new requirements but also with building long-term compliance strategies amidst growing regulatory pressure, tightening AML compliance, and the emergence of central bank digital currencies. How can financial transparency, regulatory risk minimization, and efficiency in international settlements be ensured? Answers to these questions require not only a deep understanding of the market but also practical experience in implementing solutions across different jurisdictions.

In this article, I will explore in detail the reasons and consequences of the USDT ban in Europe, discuss how the COREDO team is helping clients prepare for the new rules, what alternatives are available to businesses, and which legal and compliance solutions truly work in practice. If you want not just to survive in the era of MiCA but to effectively scale your business, read to the end. Here you will find not only analysis but also specific recommendations, tested on real cases.

Reasons for the USDT Ban in the EU: MiCA Regulation of Cryptocurrencies and Tether Restrictions

How MiCA Changes the Rules for Stablecoins

The introduction of the MiCA Regulation (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) marked a turning point for the European cryptocurrency market. This regulatory act for the first time established clear requirements for the issuance, circulation, and control of stablecoins, including parameters such as reserve transparency, audit, issuer responsibility, and mandatory compliance procedures.

Now any stablecoin used in the EU must meet strict criteria:

  • Full disclosure of reserves and liquidity guarantee mechanisms.
  • Regular independent audit.
  • Transparent AML/KYC procedures and AML process automation.
  • Compliance with capital and risk management requirements.
COREDO’s practice confirms: for companies focused on international settlements, these changes mean the need to review not only tools but also the entire policy of financial monitoring and corporate management of crypto assets.

Why Tether (USDT) Does Not Meet New Requirements

The main reason why USDT has become illegal in Europe is its non-compliance with MiCA standards for transparency and reserve management. Despite its scale and liquidity, Tether Limited does not provide a sufficient level of openness about the stablecoin’s backing structure, and independent audits are not always available in real-time. This creates risks for corporate clients related to possible asset freeze, liquidity reduction, and even suspicions of financial fraud.

Our experience at COREDO showed that many companies using USDT for cross-border transfers faced difficulties with financial due diligence and passing banking compliance procedures. As a result, using USDT is now associated with high regulatory risks and can lead to the blocking or confiscation of digital assets.

The Role of AML Compliance and Anti-Money Laundering

One of the key factors influencing the USDT ban was the tightened control over AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and the fight against money laundering through stablecoins. European regulators require not only blockchain transparency but also full traceability of operations, automation of KYC/AML, and the implementation of corporate risk management policies. Solutions developed in COREDO allow companies to integrate automated AML procedures and ensure compliance with new standards, which becomes a mandatory condition for working with any digital assets in the EU.

Consequences of the USDT Ban for Business and the European Crypto Market

Illustration for the section "Consequences of the USDT Ban for Business and the European Crypto Market" in the article "Why USDT is banned in the EU"

The Delisting of USDT on European Cryptocurrencies: How It Happens

From 2025, the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in Europe started a phased delisting of USDT, automatic conversion of balances into alternative stablecoins (such as USDC or euro-stablecoins), and a temporary freeze of funds until compliance procedures are completed. In several cases, the COREDO team assisted clients in transitioning to new tools, helping to minimize liquidity losses and avoid the blocking of corporate wallets.

Impact on International Transfers and Corporate Settlements

For many companies, the USDT ban became a challenge: traditional P2P cryptocurrency exchange schemes and cross-border transfers in stablecoins were put at risk. COREDO’s practice showed that timely transition to MiCA compliant stablecoins allows maintaining the speed and transparency of settlements, as well as reducing risks associated with corporate management of crypto assets.

How the USDT Ban Affects the P2P Market and Alternative Schemes

The P2P market in Europe is undergoing significant transformation: USDT delisting has led to liquidity reduction, fee increases, and the emergence of new settlement schemes using the digital euro and other compliant-stablecoins. COREDO’s solutions for integrating blockchain solutions allow companies to quickly adapt to new conditions and ensure the financial security of the business even under restrictions.

Legal Consequences of Holding USDT in the EU After the Ban

Holding USDT after the ban takes effect can lead to serious legal consequences: from fines and sanctions to confiscation of digital assets at the request of regulators. At COREDO, we recommend conducting a corporate wallet audit, timely replacing USDT with MiCA compliant stablecoins, and updating compliance strategies to minimize risks.

Alternatives to USDT in Europe: What Businesses Should Choose After the Ban

Illustration for the section "Alternatives to USDT in Europe: What Businesses Should Choose After the Ban" in the article "Why USDT is banned in the EU"

Comparison of Stablecoins: USDC, DAI, Digital Euro

Stablecoin MiCA Compliance Reserve Transparency Availability in the EU Fees Issuer
USDC Yes High High Medium Circle
DAI Partially Decentralized High Medium MakerDAO
Digital Euro Yes Maximum In progress Low ECB
USDT No Low Limited Medium Tether Limited

USDC from Circle and the digital euro being introduced by the ECB are becoming the main alternatives for settlements and liquidity storage. DAI, as a decentralized stablecoin, partially meets MiCA but requires separate risk assessments and compliance procedures.

How to Prepare a Company for Transitioning to New Stablecoins

Transitioning to compliant-stablecoins requires not only technical migration but also revisiting corporate policies, automating KYC/AML, and integrating new blockchain solutions. COREDO’s experience shows: timely preparation, staff training, and updating internal procedures can minimize costs and ensure a seamless transition to new tools.

Implementation of Digital Euro and the Impact of CBDC on the Stablecoin Market

The introduction of CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency) – digital euro – forms a new infrastructure for corporate settlements, reducing fees, and increasing financial transparency. COREDO’s solutions for integrating CBDC into corporate processes allow businesses not only to meet new requirements but also to leverage the advantages of digital currencies for scaling businesses.

AML Compliance and Legal Support for Cryptocurrency Transactions in New Conditions

Illustration for the section "AML Compliance and Legal Support for Cryptocurrency Transactions in New Conditions" in the article "Why USDT is banned in the EU"

How AML and KYC Procedures for Crypto Companies Will Change

With the MiCA Regulation coming into force, AML and KYC requirements are significantly tightened: now every crypto asset transaction must be accompanied by automated monitoring, financial due diligence, and cryptocurrency reporting. COREDO’s practice shows that integrating modern compliance solutions not only reduces operational risks but also boosts trust from banks and investors.

Registration and Licensing of Crypto Companies in the EU After the USDT Ban

Registration of crypto companies and Licensing of services in the EU is now impossible without full compliance with the new MiCA standards, including information disclosure on beneficiaries, the introduction of compliance officers, and automation of AML processes. The COREDO team has implemented dozens of successful cases of registration and licensing of cryptocurrency services in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Slovakia, and Cyprus, helping clients navigate all due diligence stages and obtain necessary permits.

Practical Recommendations for Legal Support and Risk Minimization

To minimize risks, it is important not only to implement automated compliance strategies but also to regularly conduct an audit of corporate policies, update contracts with counterparties, and train staff on new requirements. COREDO’s solutions in the field of legal support allow companies to protect investors’ interests, ensure financial transparency, and minimize tax and regulatory risks.

Key Conclusions and Practical Steps for Business

  • Conduct an audit of current crypto assets and assess the risks of holding USDT.
  • Prepare for the transition to MiCA compliant stablecoins (USDC, DAI, digital euro).
  • Review and automate AML/KYC procedures, implement modern compliance solutions.
  • Update corporate policies on crypto asset management and integrate blockchain solutions.
  • Conduct staff training and consult COREDO experts on new EU requirements.
  • Review contracts with counterparties, considering new regulatory restrictions.
  • Prepare cryptocurrency reporting and ensure financial transparency.

FAQ – Answers to Key Questions from Entrepreneurs and Managers

How will the USDT ban in the EU affect my company if we use stablecoins for settlements?
The ban will necessitate a transition to compliant stablecoins. Lack of timely migration may lead to blocked funds and sanctions.
Which alternatives to USDT are the safest for businesses in Europe?
USDC and digital euro, are most compliant with MiCA and ensure maximum transparency, DAI requires separate risk assessments.
How to ensure compliance with the new MiCA requirements when working with cryptocurrencies?
Implement automated AML/KYC procedures, conduct a corporate policy audit, and use only licensed services.
What risks does storing USDT on corporate wallets pose after the ban?
Risks include fund freezing, fines, asset confiscation, and loss of liquidity access.
How will the cost and speed of international transfers change after the USDT delisting?
Transition to compliant stablecoins and digital euro may reduce fees and increase transparency, but will require process adaptation.
What threatens companies for storing USDT in the EU after the ban?
Legal consequences: from fines to criminal liability and asset confiscation.
How will AML and KYC procedures for crypto companies change in the EU?
Financial monitoring, process automation, and mandatory reporting on all operations will be strengthened.

Prospects for Cryptocurrency Regulation: Experience from the EU, Asia, and Africa

Comparison of Stablecoin Regulation Approaches in the EU, Asia, and Africa

The EU’s experience with MiCA implementation has become a benchmark for several Asian and African countries. In Singapore and Japan, requirements for crypto company licensing are also being tightened, financial due diligence and AML process automation are being introduced. In Africa, there is a growing interest in DeFi regulation and the integration of blockchain solutions into corporate processes.
The COREDO team regularly supports projects on company registration and licensing of cryptocurrency services in Singapore, Dubai, the United Kingdom, and other jurisdictions, helping clients adhere to international standards and minimize regulatory risks.

Long-term Consequences for the Cryptocurrency Market and Investment Attractiveness

The USDT ban and MiCA implementation will lead to increased investment attractiveness of compliant stablecoins, improved market transparency, and reduced risks of financial fraud. However, the liquidity structure on European crypto exchanges will change, and companies unprepared for new requirements will face restricted market access and sanctions.

COREDO’s practice shows: timely adaptation to new rules, implementation of automated compliance solutions, and integration of blockchain technologies are key factors for long-term success in the international digital asset market.
LEAVE AN APPLICATION AND GET
A CONSULTATION

    By contacting us you agree to your details being used for the purposes of processing your application in accordance with our Privacy policy.