Can You Pay With Crypto Abroad If It’s Illegal Back Home?
Stablecoins have gained popularity for cryptocurrency payments, with global companies adopting new methods. However, retail crypto payments are banned in several countries, including China, Indonesia, Russia, and Turkey. Legal experts suggest that using cryptocurrency for foreign services may be permissible despite domestic bans. Georgian travel company Tripzy began accepting Tether’s USDt stablecoin for international clients, catering to travelers from countries with currency restrictions. Russian and Turkish laws do not explicitly prohibit using cryptocurrency for payments abroad. Regulatory overlaps may attract scrutiny from global authorities, particularly if Georgia becomes a conduit for Russian funds. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has warned about the rising use of stablecoins in illicit transactions, noting an increase in such activities since 2024. A targeted report on stablecoins is expected in early 2026.
