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Crypto Regulation in Germany

Germany has one of the most well-defined crypto regulatory environments in Europe. BaFin has regulated crypto custody as a financial service since 2020. Notably, crypto held for over one year by individuals is completely tax-free, making Germany one of the most favorable jurisdictions for long-term holders.

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Germany

Germany

Legal

Germany has one of the most well-defined crypto regulatory environments in Europe. BaFin has regulated crypto custody as a financial service since 2020. Notably, crypto held for over one year by individuals is completely tax-free, making Germany one of the most favorable jurisdictions for long-term holders.

Tax Type Capital gains
Tax Rate 0-45%
Exchanges Yes Yes
Mining Yes Yes
Regulator BaFin (Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht)
Stablecoin Rules Regulated under MiCA; BaFin already licensed crypto custody under existing German law since 2020
Key Points
  • Crypto held for more than 1 year is completely tax-free for individuals
  • Short-term gains (under 1 year) taxed as income at up to 45% plus solidarity surcharge
  • Annual exemption of €1,000 for short-term crypto gains (since 2024, previously €600)
  • BaFin licenses crypto custody businesses under the KWG (German Banking Act) since January 2020
  • MiCA framework applicable from December 2024, complementing existing German regulation
Sources

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