The Swiss city of Lugano has officially declared its acceptance of Bitcoin and Tether as valid payment methods for taxes and all other municipal fees. This move aims to further integrate Bitcoin into the local economy, allowing citizens and businesses to settle municipal services and obligations with these cryptocurrencies.
The announcement on December 5 marks the city’s commitment to cryptocurrency adoption. Lugano residents and companies can now make payments using Bitcoin and Tether through an automated process facilitated by the Swiss institutional-grade cryptocurrency platform, Bitcoin Suisse.
Regardless of the nature of the service or the invoiced amount, Lugano citizens and businesses have the option to pay all local invoices with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. This initiative is part of Plan B, a collaborative effort with Tether aimed at leveraging Bitcoin technology to transform Lugano’s financial system.
To make payments with Bitcoin, residents can scan the Swiss QR-bill code on the invoice and use their preferred mobile wallet to complete the transaction in Bitcoin. Bitcoin Suisse plays a crucial role in supporting Lugano’s Plan B by serving as the technical partner in the integrated payment solution, enabling the acceptance of payments in Bitcoin and Tether for tax collection and other municipal invoices.
Lugano began exploring cryptocurrency payments for taxes in March 2022 through a collaboration with Tether. The city has previously implemented blockchain-based solutions, including the MyLugano app, LVGA Points payment token, Lugano digital franc, and the 3Achain blockchain infrastructure.
This move aligns with Lugano’s progressive stance in adopting Bitcoin and experimenting with blockchain technology. Other Swiss cities, such as Zug and Zermatt, have also embraced Bitcoin for tax payments, showcasing Switzerland’s growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in various municipalities.