Summary
Cryptocurrency is legal in Spain, with the Bank of Spain and the National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) overseeing regulations. Popular payment methods include bank transfers and credit cards. The Euro (EUR) is widely supported on crypto exchanges. Key regulatory bodies include the Bank of Spain and CNMV, with the Anti-Money Laundering Law (Law 10/2010) governing crypto activities. Our recommended best crypto exchanges in Spain are:
Best Crypto Exchanges in Spain
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the top cryptocurrency exchanges available to Spanish investors. We’ll explore platforms that offer support for the Euro (EUR) and provide convenient payment methods tailored to the Spanish market, such as SEPA transfers and credit card options.
For Spanish users, we recommend prioritizing exchanges that offer seamless EUR deposits and withdrawals, as well as those that comply with European regulatory standards. This ensures a smooth trading experience while adhering to local financial regulations.
1. Bybit
2. Binance
3. MEXC
4. Bitget
5. Coinbase
Is Crypto Legal and Regulated in Spain?
Cryptocurrency is legal in Spain, with regulatory oversight provided by the Bank of Spain (Banco de España) and the National Securities Market Commission (Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores, CNMV). The Spanish government recognizes cryptocurrencies as digital assets rather than legal tender.
In 2021, Spain implemented the Royal Decree-Law 7/2021, which transposed the EU’s Fifth Anti-Money Laundering Directive (AMLD5) into national law. This legislation requires crypto exchanges and wallet providers operating in Spain to register with the Bank of Spain and comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations.
The CNMV, in collaboration with the Bank of Spain, has issued warnings about the risks associated with cryptocurrency investments. In February 2021, they introduced regulations on crypto-asset advertising, requiring prior authorization for promotional campaigns targeting more than 100,000 people.
Spain is also aligning with the broader European Union regulatory framework, including the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which aims to establish a comprehensive set of rules for the crypto industry across the EU.
Is Crypto Taxable in Spain?
Cryptocurrency is subject to taxation in Spain, with the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) providing guidelines on how crypto assets should be declared and taxed. The tax treatment of cryptocurrencies in Spain primarily falls under two categories: Income Tax and Wealth Tax.
For Income Tax purposes, profits from cryptocurrency trading are generally considered capital gains. The tax rate for capital gains in Spain ranges from 19% to 26%, depending on the amount of profit:
- 19% for the first €6,000 of gains
- 21% for gains between €6,000 and €50,000
- 23% for gains between €50,000 and €200,000
- 26% for gains exceeding €200,000
Additionally, individuals holding cryptocurrencies may be subject to the Wealth Tax (Impuesto sobre el Patrimonio) if the total value of their assets, including crypto, exceeds the tax-free allowance, which varies by region but is generally around €700,000.
It’s important to note that Spain has introduced specific reporting requirements for cryptocurrency holdings. As of 2023, individuals must declare their crypto assets held on foreign exchanges using the Modelo 720 form if the total value exceeds €50,000.
Disclaimer:
Tax laws are subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary. It is strongly advised to consult with a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for personalized guidance on cryptocurrency taxation in Spain.
How to Buy Crypto in Spain
Purchasing cryptocurrency in Spain has become increasingly accessible, with numerous exchanges offering services tailored to Spanish investors. For Spanish residents, we recommend using Bybit, our top-rated exchange, which offers a user-friendly platform, competitive fees, and support for Euro (EUR) transactions.
Whether you’re looking to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other popular cryptocurrencies, follow these steps to get started:
- Select a Crypto Exchange: Choose a reputable exchange that supports EUR deposits and withdrawals. Ensure the platform complies with Spanish regulations and offers suitable payment methods.
- Sign Up and Verify Your Identity: Create an account on the chosen exchange. Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process by providing the required identification documents, which typically include a government-issued ID and proof of address.
- Deposit Funds: Fund your account using one of the available payment methods. For Spanish users, popular options include:
- SEPA transfers (ideal for larger amounts due to low fees)
- Credit or debit cards (for faster transactions)
- Online payment services like Bizum (offered by some exchanges)
- Select Cryptocurrency: Choose the cryptocurrency you wish to purchase. Popular options include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and stablecoins like Tether (USDT) or USD Coin (USDC).
- Execute Trade: Enter the amount of cryptocurrency you want to buy or the amount of EUR you want to spend. Review the transaction details, including any fees, and confirm the purchase.
- Store Your Funds: After purchasing, you can either keep your crypto on the exchange wallet or transfer it to a personal wallet for added security. For long-term storage or large amounts, consider using a hardware wallet.
Remember to stay informed about the latest regulations and tax obligations related to cryptocurrency investments in Spain. As the crypto market can be volatile, it’s advisable to invest only what you can afford to lose and to diversify your investment portfolio.
Best Crypto Wallets in Spain
Selecting a secure and user-friendly cryptocurrency wallet is crucial for Spanish investors. Here are some top wallet options suitable for users in Spain:
- Ledger: A leading hardware wallet provider, Ledger offers the Nano S and Nano X models. These devices provide offline storage for a wide range of cryptocurrencies, offering maximum security for long-term hodlers.
- Trezor: Another reputable hardware wallet manufacturer, Trezor’s Model T and Model One are excellent choices for secure offline storage. They support numerous cryptocurrencies and integrate with various software wallets.
- Trust Wallet: A popular mobile wallet available for iOS and Android devices. Trust Wallet supports a vast array of cryptocurrencies and tokens, including those on various blockchain networks like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and more.
- Exodus: A user-friendly desktop and mobile wallet that supports over 100 cryptocurrencies. Exodus offers a built-in exchange feature and integrates with Trezor hardware wallets for enhanced security.
- MetaMask: Primarily used for Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens, MetaMask is a browser extension and mobile app that serves as a gateway to decentralized applications (DApps). It’s particularly useful for those engaging with decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms.
When choosing a wallet, consider factors such as security features, supported cryptocurrencies, ease of use, and compatibility with Spanish exchanges. For large holdings, a combination of a hardware wallet for long-term storage and a software wallet for daily transactions is often recommended. Always ensure you follow best practices for wallet security, including backing up your recovery phrase and using two-factor authentication where available.
Bottom Line
For Spanish crypto enthusiasts seeking the best crypto exchanges in Spain, we highly recommend Bybit and Binance. These platforms offer robust security measures, competitive fees, and excellent EUR support. Bybit stands out offering a robust platform with competitive fees and strong regulatory compliance. Binance follows closely as our second choice, providing a vast selection of cryptocurrencies and user-friendly interface. Both exchanges cater well to the Spanish market, supporting Euro transactions and adhering to local regulations. Always conduct thorough research and consider your individual needs when selecting a cryptocurrency exchange.