Brazilian lawmakers are currently considering new legislation that would allow employers to pay their employees using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Federal deputy Luiz Philippe de Orleans e Bragança has introduced a bill, known as PL 957/2025, which aims to regulate crypto payments for wages, remunerations, and labor benefits.
Under the proposed legislation, voluntary and partial salary payments in cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin (BTC), would be legalized. However, employers would still be required to pay a portion of the salary in the national currency, the Brazilian real. The bill also sets a cap on crypto payments, stating that salaries cannot be paid exclusively in virtual assets and must not exceed 50% of the total salary payout.
The conversion of the crypto payment amount into the chosen cryptocurrency must follow the exchange rate officially established by an institution authorized by the Central Bank of Brazil. The bill also includes provisions for independent service providers, who would be allowed to receive full payments in cryptocurrencies, subject to certain contractual agreements.
The introduction of crypto payment salaries in Brazil is seen as a potential boost to the financial technology sector and a way to attract crypto investments into the local economy. The bill emphasizes the principle of autonomy of will, allowing workers and employers greater freedom to decide on their contractual relations without compromising fundamental guarantees.
This move by Brazilian lawmakers follows successful implementations of crypto payments in various global jurisdictions, including Switzerland, Japan, and Portugal. In these countries, specific regulations and guidelines have been put in place to ensure the proper conversion and use of cryptocurrencies in salary payments.
While some countries, like Turkey and Russia, prohibit the use of cryptocurrencies as a means of payment, others, like El Salvador, have adopted Bitcoin as legal tender. However, El Salvador no longer allows tax payments or government fees in crypto following an agreement with the International Monetary Fund.
In addition to the proposed crypto salary legislation, the Brazilian government has also shown interest in facilitating BRICS transactions using cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. This initiative aims to enhance trade between Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Overall, the introduction of legislation to regulate crypto payments for salaries in Brazil reflects the growing acceptance and adoption of cryptocurrencies worldwide. If passed, this bill could provide a framework for employers and employees to embrace the benefits of cryptocurrencies while ensuring compliance with existing financial regulations.
