Crypto Taxes in France (PFU 30% on Gains) — 2026

In France, PFU 30% typically applies to crypto capital gains when converting to EUR, not to the full amount. With stablecoins, taxable gain may be minimal if there is no appreciation. Final treatment depends on residency and acquisition history.

The core idea: tax on gains vs tax on capital

For many buyers, the biggest misunderstanding is thinking: “France takes 30% of the whole crypto amount.”

In simplified terms, the tax logic is usually closer to:

If there is a gain, tax may apply to the gain (the difference between acquisition value and value at conversion).
The property purchase is taxed under normal rules (notary fees and standard acquisition taxes).

This page is educational. Your exact treatment depends on factors like tax residency, acquisition history, and how the conversion is structured.

Reference anchor: crypto gains are commonly discussed under CGI 150 VH bis (reference only — confirm current rules with qualified advisors).

Typical scenarios (stablecoin vs BTC/ETH)

Stablecoin-first (e.g., USDC)

Did the asset appreciate? How is acquisition history tracked?

If there is no appreciation, taxable gain may be minimal (depends).

Stablecoin-first (e.g., USDC)

Did the asset appreciate? How is acquisition history tracked?

If there is no appreciation, taxable gain may be minimal (depends).

BTC/ETH held long-term

What is the acquisition price basis and documentation?

Large appreciation can create a large gain at conversion.

BTC/ETH held long-term

What is the acquisition price basis and documentation?

Large appreciation can create a large gain at conversion.

Mixed history (many wallets / transfers)

Can you clearly prove trail and ownership?

Documentation gaps can slow down AML review and the transaction timeline.

Mixed history (many wallets / transfers)

Can you clearly prove trail and ownership?

Documentation gaps can slow down AML review and the transaction timeline.

Scenario	What to check	Why it matters
Scenario	What to check	Why it matters
Stablecoin-first (e.g., USDC)	Did the asset appreciate? How is acquisition history tracked?	If there is no appreciation, taxable gain may be minimal (depends).
Stablecoin-first (e.g., USDC)	Did the asset appreciate? How is acquisition history tracked?	If there is no appreciation, taxable gain may be minimal (depends).
BTC/ETH held long-term	What is the acquisition price basis and documentation?	Large appreciation can create a large gain at conversion.
BTC/ETH held long-term	What is the acquisition price basis and documentation?	Large appreciation can create a large gain at conversion.
Mixed history (many wallets / transfers)	Can you clearly prove trail and ownership?	Documentation gaps can slow down AML review and the transaction timeline.
Mixed history (many wallets / transfers)	Can you clearly prove trail and ownership?	Documentation gaps can slow down AML review and the transaction timeline.

Diagram showing conversion to EUR, gain calculation, and PFU applying to the gain, not the full capital. — Gain vs capital: where PFU typically applies at conversion.

Hub overview:

/en/guide/crypto

Example calculation (simple numbers)

Illustrative example (not advice):

Acquisition value: €400,000
Value at conversion to EUR: €500,000
Gain: €100,000

If PFU 30% applies to the gain, the order of magnitude could be:

€100,000 × 30% ≈ €30,000 tax on the gain

In practice, details can differ. The key point is: the tax point is typically the gain at conversion, not “30% of everything you own”.

Conversion moment and documentation

Operationally, conversion is where:

the gain (if any) is crystallized, and
banks/notaries may request evidence for AML (“source of funds”).

To reduce delays:

align conversion timing with the notary timeline: /en/how-it-works
prepare your documentation pack early: /en/guide/crypto/source-of-funds
make sure the workflow is compliant: /en/guide/crypto/legal-framework

Common misconceptions (quick fixes)

“I pay 30% on the whole crypto amount.” Often wrong — the gain is the key point.
“Stablecoins always mean zero tax.” Not necessarily; it depends on history and local rules.
“I can convert at the last moment.” Late preparation often creates delays and questions.
“The notary will accept any crypto transfer.” Settlement usually runs in EUR, with standard checks.

Next step: get a tailored view

If you’re planning a crypto-origin purchase on the French Riviera, the safest path is to pre-check residency, estimate potential gains, and prepare a clean conversion workflow.

Start here: /en/contact
Back to the hub: /en/guide/crypto

Sources

Disclaimer: Educational content only (not tax advice). Always confirm your treatment with qualified advisors, especially for cross-border situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does France tax 30% on the full crypto amount when buying property?

Often, PFU 30% applies to capital gains (the increase in value) at conversion to EUR, not to the full crypto amount. The exact outcome depends on residency status and acquisition history.

Do I owe tax when converting USDC to EUR in France?

If there is no appreciation, taxable gain may be minimal or not arise. However, treatment depends on your tax residency and how your acquisition history is tracked. Confirm with a qualified advisor.

Is the property purchase taxed differently if funds originate from crypto?

The real estate transaction follows standard notary fees and taxes. The crypto-related tax point is typically the conversion (gain), not the property purchase itself.

What should I prepare before conversion?

Clarify residency, estimate potential gain, choose a compliant conversion path, and prepare documentation for AML review (bank/notary).