This jurisdiction has established a clear, favorable regulatory framework for blockchain and cryptocurrency activities. Businesses can operate with confidence under well-defined rules.
France Cryptocurrency Regulatory Overview
France operates under the EU's MiCA Regulation while maintaining additional national requirements. The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) oversees crypto service providers through the PSAN (Prestataires de Services sur Actifs Numériques) registration system. France has been proactive in crypto regulation, implementing its own framework before MiCA. While generally supportive of innovation, France maintains stricter oversight than some EU peers, particularly regarding consumer protection and AML compliance. The country has called for stronger European frameworks to address concerns about uneven implementation. Additional documentation and compliance requirements may apply for certain activities.
France Blockchain Compliance Requirements
Regulatory Framework: EU MiCA + French PSAN regime via AMF. Licensing: Mandatory PSAN registration or optional enhanced license. Taxation: Flat 30% tax on crypto gains; professional activity taxed as income. AML/CFT: Stringent requirements under TRACFIN oversight. Consumer Protection: Enhanced disclosure and suitability requirements. Stablecoins: MiCA framework with additional French oversight. ICOs: Regulated under AMF optional visa system. Advertising: Strict rules on crypto promotion. Banking: Gradual integration with traditional finance. Enforcement: Active AMF supervision and enforcement actions.
Crypto Licensing Requirements in France
Crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) must obtain authorization from the AMF under the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. This replaces the previous Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) registration/licensing under the PACTE Law, with a transitional period for existing DASPs until July 1, 2026.
Cryptocurrency Tax Treatment in France
Capital gains from occasional crypto sales are subject to a 30% flat tax (PFU), which includes 12.8% income tax and 17.2% social contributions. An option to use the progressive income tax scale plus social contributions is available.
Crypto Banking Access in France
Banking Access for Crypto in France
France offers improving banking access for crypto, with major developments in late 2025.
Major Development: BPCE Group (December 2025)
BPCE Banking Group: France's second-largest banking group (€1 trillion assets). Launch: December 9, 2025. Services: Direct crypto trading (Bitcoin, Ethereum, major tokens). Access: Through Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Épargne mobile apps. Customers: 2 million retail customers initially. Significance: Major traditional bank embracing crypto.
Crypto-Friendly French Banks
Tier 1: Most Crypto-Friendly
Banque Delubac & Cie: Specialized crypto banking services. Integrated crypto wallet management. Dedicated crypto account services. URL: https://www.delubac.com/en/innovations/crypto/
BoursoBank (formerly Boursorama): 78% satisfaction rating for crypto users. Online bank, part of Société Générale group. Generally accepts crypto exchange transfers. Ranked #2 in crypto-friendly banks by Bitcoin.fr.
Fortuneo: Online bank, part of Crédit Mutuel Arkéa. Crypto-friendly policies. Accepts crypto-related transactions. Popular among crypto investors.
Tier 2: Increasingly Open
Société Générale: Major traditional bank. More open to crypto than most traditional banks. Exploring blockchain and crypto services.
Axa Banque: Insurance-backed bank. More accepting of crypto activities.
CACEIS Bank: Crypto securities settlement services. B2B focus. Part of Crédit Agricole group.
Caisse des dépôts et consignations: Public financial institution. Exploring crypto custody services.
Business Banking for Crypto Companies
Challenges: Traditional banks still cautious. Enhanced due diligence required. Longer account opening process (3-6 months typical).
Requirements: AMF CASP authorization significantly improves access. Comprehensive AML/KYC documentation. Business plan and financial projections. Proof of regulatory compliance.
Best Options: Banque Delubac (specialized in crypto). Online Banks (BoursoBank, Fortuneo more flexible). European Options (consider cross-border: Switzerland, Liechtenstein).
Individual Banking
Easy Access: BoursoBank (best overall for crypto users). Fortuneo (strong alternative). BPCE Apps (direct in-app crypto trading from Dec 2025).
What to Expect: Standard KYC (ID, proof of address). Source of funds questions for large amounts. Generally accepting of crypto exchange transfers. May request explanation of crypto activity.
Recent Positive Trends (2025)
Traditional Banks Entering Market: BPCE launching crypto trading (December 2025). Société Générale exploring services. Regulatory clarity from MiCA improving bank confidence.
Infrastructure Improvements: DAC 8 directive increasing transparency. AMF CASP framework providing legitimacy. Better integration between crypto and traditional finance.
Comparison to Other Jurisdictions
Better than: Many EU countries with more conservative banks. Similar to: Germany, Netherlands (progressive approach). Behind: Switzerland (specialized crypto banks like Sygnum). Ahead of: Southern Europe (Italy, Spain, Portugal).
Key Takeaway
France has good and improving banking access for crypto. BoursoBank and Fortuneo provide reliable services for individuals. Banque Delubac specializes in crypto businesses. The December 2025 BPCE launch marks a major milestone with traditional banks embracing crypto. AMF CASP licensing significantly improves business banking access.
Official Sources & Regulatory References
AML/CFT requirements are established and aligned with international standards (FATF guidelines).
Regulatory enforcement is predictable and fair. Clear processes exist for compliance and dispute resolution.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Regulations change frequently. Always consult with qualified legal professionals in the relevant jurisdiction before making business decisions.