Brazil orders 24-hour crypto transfer holds

Brazil’s central bank has issued a resolution requiring virtual asset service providers to hold certain cryptoasset transfers for up to 24 hours before executing them. The measure applies to transactions above $10,000, whether made in a single transfer or through a customer’s total activity for the same day, when the destination is a foreign virtual asset firm or a self-custody wallet.

Which operations does the hold apply to?

The resolution applies to transactions above $10,000, whether made in a single transfer or through a customer’s total activity for the same day, when the destination is a foreign virtual asset firm or a self-custody wallet. Bitcoin News identified the measure as 584/2026.

What changed under resolution 584/2026?

The resolution, identified in Bitcoin News coverage as 584/2026, amends Resolution 142/2021 to add fraud prevention procedures for institutions in Brazil’s payment system that operate with digital assets. According to Reuters, the central bank said the decision responds to the growing use of virtual assets, including stablecoins, to move funds obtained through financial fraud.

Does the hold mean a permanent freeze?

The rule does not amount to a permanent freeze of assets. It can also apply to other transactions that require closer scrutiny under risk management policies. Bitcoin News also reported that the hold is preventive and that funds can be released before the 24 hours are up if the risk review finds no issues.

When do the new rules take effect?

The new rules will take effect on January 1, 2027, according to the resolution cited by Reuters. Until then, virtual asset service providers will need to adjust their procedures to account for this precautionary hold on transfers that exceed the threshold and are sent to a foreign VASP or a self-custody wallet.