Brazil to Impose 24-Hour Hold on Large Crypto Transfers Starting 2027

Brazil’s central bank will require crypto companies to wait 24 hours after a customer funds their account before processing transfers exceeding $10,000 to self-custody wallets or offshore crypto firms. The rule, published in a recent resolution, also applies when a customer’s combined daily transactions cross that threshold. Even smaller transfers flagged by internal risk systems must be held, though firms can release them early after a documented review.

Fraud Prevention, Not Asset Freezing

Officials describe the hold as a precautionary step, not a way to lock up customer funds. Companies must weigh factors like customer risk profile, transaction history, counterparty, and destination jurisdiction. Once the 24-hour window ends, providers must either release or reject the transfer, and customers must be informed whenever a hold is placed on their transaction.

Expanding Brazil’s Crypto Oversight

The measure updates a 2021 anti-fraud framework and takes effect January 1, 2027, applying broadly to cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. It builds on rules introduced earlier this year requiring licensing and anti-money laundering compliance for crypto firms. Brazil remains one of the largest crypto markets in Latin America.