Greece has published a draft bill introducing a 10% capital gains tax on cryptocurrency profits. As of early October 2026, the legislation is open for public consultation. It is scheduled for submission to parliament in November. Greece currently lacks a comprehensive legal framework for taxing crypto assets. European Union countries apply rates ranging from about 8% to 30%, with no unified system.
The draft sets a flat 10% rate on gains from the transfer of crypto-assets by natural persons. Annual net capital gains of up to €500 remain exempt. Crypto-to-crypto exchanges are not treated as taxable events on their own. Purchases of crypto will count toward presumed living expense rules (tekmiria). A special window allows voluntary declaration of past gains within 12 months of the law’s publication, with payment due within 60 days and without penalties if conditions are met.
The Drivers of the Current Situation
The main driver is the absence of clear rules. Greek authorities note that most investors use foreign platforms, making market size estimates difficult. No specific revenue projection has been issued for the new tax.
An earlier version of the proposal, discussed in mid-2026, contemplated a 15% rate while retaining the €500 exemption. The latest draft lowers the rate to 10%. Gains are calculated as the difference between acquisition cost and disposal proceeds, net of related transaction costs. Where acquisition cost cannot be documented, it may be treated as zero. Losses above the exemption threshold can be carried forward for five years and offset only against future crypto gains.
Income from lending, liquidity provision, or staking is treated as interest and taxed at the same 10% rate. The framework also addresses inheritance, gifts, and parental transfers of crypto-assets. Sales of crypto are exempt from the digital transaction fee.
A full, enforceable regime requires parliamentary approval. The current draft remains subject to public feedback and possible amendments before final passage.
Impact and Broader Context
Questions about how Greece will tax crypto profits keep growing. The low flat rate and modest exemption aim to bring clarity while limiting the burden on small holders. It also creates a path for past undeclared gains to enter the formal tax system.
The issue drives debate on national crypto taxation within the EU. It raises questions about compliance for users of offshore platforms, documentation of acquisition costs, interaction with living-expense presumptions, treatment of staking rewards, and competitiveness relative to other member states. Officials emphasize the need for rules where none existed. Market participants note the rate sits toward the lower end of European ranges.
Introduction of the first dedicated crypto tax framework marks a shift from regulatory ambiguity. Final parliamentary text, implementing guidance, or further rate adjustments will determine the practical effect on Greek crypto investors.
This analysis uses the draft bill under public consultation, Reuters reporting, and Greek media coverage of the Ministry of National Economy and Finance proposals. The final tax rules remain subject to legislative review and possible changes.