Updated on 22nd October, 2025
Key Takeaways:
- Russia considers new legislation to classify cryptocurrency as shared marital wealth during divorce proceedings
- Bill would formally recognize crypto as marital property under civil law, but enforcement challenges remain
Russia is preparing to update its family law system to reflect the growing role of digital assets in personal wealth. A new draft bill submitted to the State Duma proposes that cryptocurrency acquired during marriage should be treated the same as real estate, vehicles, business equity, and bank deposits.
If passed, the legislation would formally categorize crypto as marital property, opening the legal door for courts to divide digital assets during divorce cases.
The bill has ignited debate in Russian legal circles because it marks the first major legislative move to recognize cryptocurrency in family law. It also highlights a broader global shift, as governments begin to address how blockchain-based assets fit within traditional financial and legal frameworks.
Similar discussions are taking place in the European Union following the introduction of MiCA, and in the United States as digital asset regulation becomes a priority issue.
Supporters say the bill will close a dangerous legal gap. Without formal recognition of cryptocurrency in family courts, spouses can hide assets in digital wallets and avoid financial accountability. The proposed legislation treats crypto holdings gained during marriage as joint assets, subject to equal division unless a prenuptial agreement states otherwise.
Lawmakers Aim to Modernize Family Code
The draft proposes amendments to Articles 34 and 36 of the Family Code, expanding the definition of shared property to include digital financial assets. Under the proposal, cryptocurrency acquired before marriage or received as a gift or inheritance would remain personal property, similar to existing civil protections.
Assets accumulated during marriage, however, would fall under joint ownership rules, meaning crypto as marital property would be enforceable in divorce settlements.
Analysts note that the bill reflects the government’s growing interest in asset transparency after reports of increasing crypto activity among Russian citizens. With the rising adoption of digital assets as an alternative savings vehicle, lawmakers believe the legal structure must catch up to economic reality.
Crypto as Marital Property Raises Enforcement Challenges
Courts can enforce crypto as marital property only if digital wallets and account records can be located. This has led to criticism from legal experts who argue that without strong investigative tools, the law would be difficult to apply in practice. The bill does not yet outline procedures for tracking wallets or compelling disclosure.
Dr. Elena Karpova, a financial law researcher, said on X that courts will struggle to divide digital assets without further guidance. She stated,
“Recognition is an important step, but without clear enforcement tools, spouses may still conceal holdings with little consequence.”
Her comment mirrors wider concerns that crypto as marital property will remain symbolic unless enforcement mechanisms are clarified.
Some analysts believe that the inclusion of crypto as marital property in legal definitions will encourage the development of forensic blockchain services in Russia. Divorce courts in countries like the United States already use specialized investigators to trace digital wallets and recover undisclosed funds. If the Russian proposal becomes law, similar services may emerge in Eastern Europe.
Global Shift Toward Digital Asset Recognition
Legal scholars suggest that Russia is joining a growing number of countries incorporating cryptocurrency into civil codes. South Korea already treats digital assets as divisible marital wealth. Courts in the United Kingdom and Canada have also ruled in favor of including crypto as marital property in divorce cases.
This evolution reflects a larger financial truth. Digital assets are now a stable component of household wealth. For many families, crypto holdings sit alongside savings accounts and investment portfolios. The Russian bill is a sign that family law is adapting to a world where digital and traditional assets coexist.
Conclusion
Russia’s draft legislation signals a significant moment in the legal recognition of digital wealth. By defining crypto as marital property, policymakers aim to close loopholes that enable financial dishonesty in divorce proceedings.
The success of the law will depend on whether authorities can enforce disclosure and traceability standards. Regardless of its challenges, the bill underscores the inevitable integration of cryptocurrency into global legal systems.
FAQ
Will crypto be divided in Russian divorce cases if this bill is passed
Yes. The bill classifies digital assets acquired during marriage as shared property. Courts may divide holdings between spouses.
Can crypto acquired before marriage be divided
No. Crypto owned before marriage or received as a gift or inheritance remains individual property.
How will courts track hidden wallets
The bill does not provide tracking procedures yet. Courts may need blockchain analysis services to trace assets.
Does this affect international law
No. The bill applies only to Russia, but it reflects a global increase in cases involving digital assets.
Glossary
Digital Financial Assets
A legal term used to describe cryptocurrencies and tokenized assets recorded on distributed ledgers.
Blockchain Forensics
Analytical methods used to trace cryptocurrency transactions across public ledgers.
Asset Disclosure
A legal requirement to list all property and financial holdings during legal proceedings.
Civil Code Amendment
A formal legal change to national family or property law.
