The cryptocurrency market in 2025 has finally stepped out of the shadows. Millions of Europeans trade Bitcoin, receive salaries in USDT, or run blockchain-related businesses. However, many face an unpleasant surprise: traditional banks suddenly freeze their accounts for any connection to cryptocurrencies.
PaySera is a striking example of this approach. What started as a convenient European fintech has turned into a headache for crypto users. In this article, we’ll explore why PaySera has become a problematic choice for cryptocurrency operations and which banks truly support digital assets in 2025.
Why PaySera Blocks Cryptocurrency Transactions
Strict Anti-Crypto Policy
PaySera officially states: "Using your account for cryptocurrency trading is strictly prohibited and outlined in PaySera’s policy. Ignoring this will result in account restrictions and, ultimately, closure."
This means that any connection with cryptocurrencies can trigger a block:
Transfers to crypto exchanges
Receiving payments from crypto companies
Operations with P2P platforms
Even indirect links through third parties
Real Blocking Cases
Case #1 – IT freelancer from Latvia: Andrey provided web development services and received payments via PaySera. One client sent him money directly from Binance (a fully licensed European exchange). Three days later, PaySera froze the account for source of funds verification. After a month of review, the bank closed the account permanently.
Case #2 – Online store from Poland: The owner began accepting Bitcoin payments via BitPay. PaySera detected crypto processing in the statements and blocked the corporate account with a turnover of €50,000 per month without prior notice.
Why PaySera Is So Afraid of Cryptocurrencies
PaySera operates as a payment institution, not a full-fledged bank. This implies stricter AML/KYC requirements. The Lithuanian regulator, under whose jurisdiction PaySera operates, demands maximum caution with crypto-related activities.
The company prefers to avoid all risks associated with cryptocurrency regulation instead of adapting to new realities.
How MiCA Regulation Changes the Game
What MiCA Is and Why It Matters
The MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) regulation came into force on June 29, 2023, and became fully applicable on December 30, 2024. It is the first pan-European cryptocurrency law that:
Licenses crypto services under unified standards
Protects consumer rights
Creates transparent rules for token issuers
Requires crypto service providers (CASPs) to obtain licenses to operate in the EU from January 2025
How MiCA Affects Banks
MiCA does not prohibit banks from working with cryptocurrencies. On the contrary, the regulation creates clear rules that reduce uncertainty. However, banks react differently:
Conservative banks (like PaySera) use MiCA as a pretext to further tighten their policies.
Progressive banks see MiCA as an opportunity to legally enter the crypto space with clear rules of the game.
Alternatives to PaySera for Cryptocurrency Operations
Wise: Cautious Support with Transparent Rules
Pros of Wise:
No account freezes for occasional crypto transactions
Supports transfers from licensed crypto exchanges
Transparent cryptocurrency policy
Excellent international transfer fees
Cons:
- Prohibits direct crypto trading
- Blocks transfers to unlicensed exchanges
- Requires detailed KYC for crypto income
Best for: Freelancers and employees receiving salaries from crypto companies.
ZEN.com: Balance Between Security and Loyalty
ZEN.com is a Lithuanian fintech originally designed with international and crypto users in mind.
Advantages of ZEN:
Multi-currency IBAN accounts for 30+ currencies
Partnerships with Mastercard, Visa, PayPal
Crypto income-friendly if KYC is met
Fast online account opening
Requirements:
Proof of legality of crypto income
Tax declarations for large sums
Documentation from licensed exchanges
Best for: Traders and investors working with licensed exchanges.
Januar: Premium Solution for Crypto Business
Januar is a Danish payment institution specializing exclusively in the cryptocurrency industry.
Features of Januar:
Full support for crypto-fiat operations
Compliance with AMLD5/6 and MiCA requirements
SEPA and SWIFT transfers, including USD
Professional customer support
Pricing:
Setup: €1,500
Monthly fee: €500
SWIFT USD: additional €1,000/month
Best for: Crypto exchanges, DeFi projects, and large traders with turnovers over €100,000/month.
Practical Tips: How to Choose a Bank for Crypto in 2025
1. Define Your Usage Profile
Occasional transactions: Wise or a liberal traditional bank
Regular trading: ZEN.com with full documentation
Crypto business: Januar or other specialized solutions
2. Prepare Documents in Advance
Modern crypto-friendly banks require:
Statements from licensed exchanges
Tax declarations
Proof of source of initial funds
Business plan (for companies)
3. Diversify Your Banking Solutions
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Even loyal banks can change their policy. It’s recommended to have:
Main crypto-friendly bank for operations
Backup traditional bank for daily expenses
Specialized solution for large business
The Future of Banks and Crypto in Europe
Trends of 2025
Stronger regulation: MiCA will become the standard, banks will adapt
Market split: Clear division between crypto-friendly and conservative banks
Growth of specialized solutions: New banks exclusively for crypto clients
DeFi integration: First banks to integrate directly with decentralized protocols
Why PaySera Will Remain in the Past
PaySera missed the chance to become a leader in European crypto banking. Instead of adapting to new realities, the company chose maximum restrictions.
Even major exchanges like Coinbase are forced to adapt to MiCA by delisting certain tokens to comply. PaySera, on the other hand, prefers to completely avoid the crypto sphere, losing a promising client base.
PaySera Is Not Recommended for Crypto Operations
Main reasons to avoid PaySera when working with cryptocurrencies:
❌ Complete ban on crypto operations in terms of service
❌ Account freezes even for indirect crypto links
❌ No procedures for legitimizing crypto income
❌ Opaque criteria for account blocking
Recommended alternatives:
✅ Wise — for occasional crypto income
✅ ZEN.com — for regular crypto operations
✅ Januar — for professional crypto business
The European crypto industry is evolving rapidly. MiCA has established clear rules of the game, and banks that can adapt will gain a competitive advantage. PaySera, unfortunately, has chosen to resist progress.
If you are serious about cryptocurrencies — consider alternatives. Your business deserves a bank that understands and supports the digital future of finance.
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