Important Highlights
- If you want complete control of your crypto, use zebpay.
- Store your crypto in a cold wallet like Tangem for maximum safety.
- Maintain a record of your transactions to easily handle the 30% tax and 1% TDS.
Your Guide to Buying Crypto Currency Safely in India
So you’ve finally decided to get into crypto. Maybe you’ve seen Bitcoin in the headlines again, or a friend made some gains and you’re curious.
But now you’re wondering, how to buy crypto currency in India without getting scammed or messing up with tax rules?
Totally fair. Crypto can be confusing at first, especially in India where the rules aren’t always crystal clear.
But don’t worry I’ve been in this space for over five years, and I’ve seen it all. If you’re someone who wants to stay legal, avoid unnecessary risks, and actually own your crypto, here’s exactly how to do it.
How to Buy Crypto Currency in India Without Stress
The safest and simplest way to get started is to use a trusted, FIU-registered exchange.
These are platforms that follow Indian regulations so you don’t have to worry about shady stuff.
Two options I highly recommend:
- Zebpay: Great for long-term holders who want to move crypto into a personal wallet. You get full control of your assets.
- CoinDCX: Super fast INR withdrawals and a smooth trading experience. However, you are unable to withdraw your cryptocurrency to a different wallet.
So which one should you choose?
If your goal is to hold crypto safely in your own wallet (what we call self-custody), go with Zebpay.
If you’re more into trading and don’t mind keeping your assets on the exchange, CoinDCX works fine.
In my case, I prefer holding my assets myself, which is why Zebpay has been my go-to.
How to Buy Crypto Currency in India and Store It Securely
Okay, now you’ve bought your crypto. What next?
You can leave it on the exchange… but here’s the thing, exchanges can go down, freeze withdrawals, or even get hacked.
If you really want to own your crypto, you should take it to a cold wallet. The Tangem Card, available from Etherbit, is what I personally suggest. It’s a small card that works like a hardware wallet super easy to use, totally offline, and very secure.
Just tap it with your phone, and you are good to go. No apps, no passwords, no stress. To withdraw your crypto from Zebpay, make sure your account is fully verified with Level 2 KYC.
This involves a few extra documents (like your Aadhaar and a selfie), but it’s a one-time step. Once that’s done, you can send your crypto to your Tangem card or any wallet of your choice.
Important tip: When depositing INR into Zebpay, always go with manual deposit. Instant deposit might seem easier, but it can restrict your ability to withdraw crypto later.
What About Taxes?
Yeah, this part’s not fun but it’s super important.
In India, crypto is taxed. Here’s how it works:
- On exchanges such as Zebpay and CoinDCX, there is an automatic deduction of 1% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) from each transaction. It’s taken out for you; you don’t need to do anything.
- 30% tax is applied for any benefit you made while selling your cryptocurrency.
Let us assume that the Etherium has been purchased for and 1,00,000 and is later sold for ₹ 1,50,000. Profit of ₹ 50,000? This will be subject to 30% tax.
Best thing you can do: keep a simple spreadsheet of all your transactions. It’ll save you a headache throughout tax season.
For more details, check out:
- Crypto Tax Guide – TaxGuru
- Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Crypto in India – CoinLive
Final Thoughts on How to Buy Crypto Currency in India
Honestly? Once you understand the basics, it’s not that hard. Here I tell anyone who asks me:
- Use a trusted, compliant exchange, Zebpay, if you want self-custody.
- Finish your KYC, especially if you plan to withdraw your crypto.
- Get a cold wallet like the Tangem Card, it’s worth it.
- Pay your taxes on time. You won’t ever have to worry if you keep your records up to date.
Crypto isn’t just about quick profits. It’s about freedom, ownership, and being early to a financial revolution. But like anything valuable, you have to take responsibility for this. Once you hang things, it looks strong.
