Crypto tax in Germany
Tax-free after 1 year holding. Short-term taxed as income up to 45%. €600 exemption.
- Short-term rate
- 45%
- Long-term rate
- 0%
- Treatment
- Taxed as income
- Currency
- EUR
How Germany taxes crypto
Germany treats crypto as a private asset. If held for more than 12 months, gains are completely tax-free. Short-term gains under €600 are also exempt. Above €600, gains are taxed at your personal income tax rate (up to 45% + 5.5% solidarity surcharge). This makes Germany one of the most favorable countries for long-term crypto holders.
The long-term rate applies once you have held for more than 12 months.
A 10,000 EUR gain, settled
| Held | Rate | Taken | Kept |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term | 45% | 4,500 | 5,500 |
| Long-term | — | — | 10,000 |
This is the arithmetic the app runs on your device. Real liability depends on your residency, income, allowances and how the authority classifies your activity. Treat it as an estimate and check with a qualified adviser before you act.
Elsewhere in Europe
| Jurisdiction | Short-term | Long-term |
|---|---|---|
| Czechia | 23% | — |
| Georgia | — | — |
| Luxembourg | 42% | — |
| Malta | 35% | — |
| Portugal | 28% | — |
| Switzerland | — | — |
| Turkey | — | — |
| Netherlands | 2% | 2% |
Headline rate last checked 31 July 2026 · methodology