Is crypto legal in France?

Yes, crypto is legal in France. People can buy, hold, trade and sell bitcoin and other crypto, and firms that serve French clients must be authorised under the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation (MiCA). By July 2026, the AMF had authorised 31 firms, making France the second most popular EU base for licensed providers.

Is bitcoin legal in France?

Yes. The French economy ministry explains that crypto is not money under French law and has no legal tender status, because the euro is France's currency. A business may choose to accept crypto as payment, but it is also free to refuse it.

France first regulated crypto firms through the Pacte law of May 22, 2019, which created the status of digital asset service provider (PSAN). Since MiCA started to apply on December 30, 2024, the EU framework has replaced that national system. Our guide to MiCA explains the EU rules.

Is crypto banned in France?

No. There is no ban on owning or using crypto. What changed in 2026 is the licensing deadline for businesses. France gave firms registered under the Pacte law the maximum 18-month transition, which ended on July 1, 2026. Since then, the AMF says authorisation is required to offer crypto services, and providers without it must wind down their French business in an orderly way.

This affected some large platforms. Binance told French clients its French entity would end crypto services on July 1, 2026 after it did not obtain MiCA authorisation in time, Euronews reported. The AMF encourages people to use only providers authorised in the EU, noting there is no equivalence regime for firms from outside the bloc. The ministry also suggests checking the AMF blacklists before investing.

Is crypto trading legal in France?

Yes. Individuals can trade crypto through authorised platforms or on their own. Gains from selling crypto are taxed under a dedicated regime, covered in how crypto is taxed in France.

France has a large licensed sector and an active regulator. The AMF says it now examines new applications, supervises authorised providers and checks the wind-down plans of firms that did not secure a licence, working with ESMA and other national authorities.

Is crypto mining legal in France?

Mining is not banned in France. French tax doctrine has treated it as a lawful activity since a Conseil d'État decision of April 26, 2018, which confirmed that mining income falls under the non-commercial profits (BNC) category. Miners still follow ordinary business, energy and tax rules. For a wider view, see is crypto mining legal.

Rules differ by country and change often. Check the regulator or a qualified professional for your own situation.