Germany and Greece propose new crypto tax rules

6.6 Regulation

Oct 8, 2026

Germany may end the crypto one-year tax exemption, while Greece proposes a 10% gains tax with a €500 exemption, aligning with new EU crypto reporting rules.

Germany is considering a draft bill to abolish the one-year holding period for tax exemption on crypto assets acquired after December 31, 2026. This proposal has drawn criticism due to its brief consultation period and concerns that, without accurate purchase records, the tax withheld could exceed what is actually owed by investors. Meanwhile, Greece has introduced draft legislation to impose a 10% capital gains tax on cryptocurrency profits, with an annual exemption of €500. This marks a shift from the previously considered 15% rate and aims to establish a clear tax framework for digital assets. The bill is expected to reach parliament in November. The Greek proposal would tax gains exceeding the exemption, but the government has not estimated potential revenue, partly because many investors use foreign platforms. These legislative moves coincide with new EU crypto reporting rules, though member states still control their own tax rates.