How are cryptocurrencies taxed in France?
The flat tax (PFU) of 30% applies to capital gains when converting to fiat currency or purchasing goods/services. Crypto-to-crypto exchanges are not taxable.
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Tax Exile Guide for Crypto: France
Complete step-by-step procedure to transfer your tax residence to France. Crypto tax rate: 30% (PFU).
Overview
Crypto tax rate
30% (PFU)
Crypto-friendly score
★★☆☆☆
Cost of living
High
Banking ease
Easy
Regulation
Strict
Preparation time
1-3 months
Step 1: Preparation for Departure
A tax relocation to France requires 1-3 months of preparation. Here are the essential steps before leaving.
1
Check your passport validity (minimum 6 months)
2
Gather all financial documents (bank statements, crypto history)
3
Notify your tax authority of your planned departure
4
Find accommodation in the destination country
5
Take out international health insurance
Step 2: Exit Tax
Some countries apply an exit tax on unrealised capital gains. Check whether your country of origin is affected.
France applies an exit tax on latent capital gains exceeding 800,000 EUR when transferring tax residence out of France. An automatic deferral is granted for moves to EU/EEA countries.
⚠️ Warning: your country of origin may apply an exit tax. Consult a tax adviser.
Step 3: Visa & Residence
Choosing the right visa is essential for your tax relocation to France. Here are the main visa options available.
View the France visa guide on eVisa-Card.com →
Read the detailed guide on eVisa-Card.com: visa types, fees, processing times and procedures for France.
Step 4: Banking & Finance
Opening a bank account in France is a crucial step. Here are the recommended banks and the procedure.
Recommended banks
- 🏦 BNP Paribas
- 🏦 Société Générale
- 🏦 Boursorama
- 🏦 Crédit Agricole
- 🏦 N26 (via EU)
Required documents
- 📄 Valid passport
- 📄 Proof of local address
- 📄 Proof of regular income
Account opening time : 1-2 weeks
BNP Paribas, Societe Generale, Credit Agricole and neo-banks (Boursorama, Fortuneo) are the main options. Account opening is simple with proof of address. French banks are accustomed to international profiles.
Step 5: Transferring Your Cryptocurrencies
Transferring your crypto assets to France requires compliance with local regulations. Here is the procedure.
Exchanges available in France
BinanceKrakenCoinhousePaymium
Regulator : AMF (Autorité des Marchés Financiers)
Transfer steps
1.
Verify that your exchange is authorised in the destination country
2.
Check AMF (Autorite des marches financiers, France) compliance
3.
Transfer via an EU-regulated exchange (MiCA)
4.
Declare foreign crypto accounts (form 3916-bis)
The AMF (Autorite des marches financiers) regulates PASNs (Digital Asset Service Providers). Registered exchanges include Binance, Coinhouse and Paymium. The European MiCA framework applies since 2024.
Step 6: Settlement & Daily Life
Settling in France: what you need to know for your daily life.
France offers a world-renowned quality of life. Paris is a growing fintech hub. The healthcare system is excellent. The cost of living in Paris is high but regions offer excellent value. The French crypto scene is dynamic.
Step 7: Tax Compliance in France
Your tax obligations in France after settling.
Filing deadline
mai-juin (selon département)
Forms to complete
Formulaire 2042
Annexe 2086 (plus-values crypto)
Formulaire 3916-bis (comptes crypto)
Obligations
✓
Flat Tax (PFU) of 30% on crypto capital gains
✓
Exit tax applicable if latent capital gains > 800,000 EUR
✓
Declare foreign crypto accounts (form 3916-bis)
✓
File an annual tax return
France applies the PFU (flat tax) of 30% on crypto capital gains (12.8% income tax + 17.2% social contributions). Foreign crypto accounts must be declared via form 3916-bis. There is a disposal threshold of 305 EUR/year below which gains are exempt.
Estimated monthly cost of living
| Studio/1-bedroom rent | 700-1 500 EUR/month |
| Family rent (3 bedrooms) | 1 200-3 000 EUR/month |
| Utilities (water, electricity, internet) | 100-250 EUR/month |
| Food | 300-600 EUR/month |
| Transport | 75-150 EUR/month |
| Health insurance | 0-50 EUR/month |
| Estimated monthly budget | 1 400 - 5 500 EUR/month |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Clear regulation
- ✓EU member
- ✓Healthcare system
- ✓Cultural life
Cons
- ✗High tax rate
- ✗Exit tax applicable
- ✗Complex declaration
- ✗Frequent changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to declare accounts on foreign exchanges?
Yes, mandatorily via form 3916-bis. The fine is 750 EUR per undeclared account (1,500 EUR if the account is in a non-cooperative state).
Does the exit tax apply to crypto?
Yes, if your latent securities capital gains exceed 800,000 EUR. An automatic deferral is granted for EU/EEA moves. Outside the EU, the deferral is cancelled after 5 years for securities.
Is staking taxed in France?
Staking income is taxed according to its classification: BNC if professional activity, or disposal capital gains when converting to fiat. Tax doctrine evolves regularly.
What is the cost of living in Paris?
Paris is one of the most expensive cities in Europe: 2,500-5,000 EUR/month all-inclusive. A studio costs 1,000-2,000 EUR/month. Lyon and Bordeaux are 30-40% cheaper.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Laws and regulations change regularly. Consult a qualified professional before making any decision regarding tax relocation.
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