How to Choose the Best Secure Crypto Exchange in Europe?
What Crypto Regulations Apply In Europe?
Crypto exchanges in Europe currently operate under a mix of national licensing frameworks and a new EU-wide system being phased in. Until 2026, platforms must comply with local rules, from basic AML registrations to full-fledged VASP, DASP, or e-money licenses, depending on the country. The upcoming MiCA regulation (Markets in Crypto-Assets) will unify this landscape under a single standard: the CASP license (Crypto Asset Service Provider), mandatory by the end of 2026 for all exchanges operating across EU borders.
Some countries, like France, offer enhanced licensing (DASP), while others, such as Lithuania, use lighter registration models. Meanwhile, e-money licenses (EMIs) enable crypto platforms to issue and manage fiat balances. Below is a breakdown of the main frameworks by type, region, and purpose:
What Security Features Should I Look For In A European Crypto Exchange?
- Insurance Fund: Many exchanges claim to have an insurance fund, but these often come with regional or subscription restrictions.
- Licensed/Compliant: Using an unregulated exchange in your region means you’ll have no legal recourse if something goes wrong.
- Strong Login Security: Look for exchanges that offer robust login options like 2FA, MBA , passkeys, or biometric logins.
- Cold Storage: Choose platforms that store customer crypto in cold storage. This way, your funds are better protected even if they’re hacked.
- Proof of Reserves: Exchanges that show 1:1 backing and transparent proof of reserves offer more confidence than those that don’t.
- High Third-Party Scores: Favor platforms with high ratings on reputable sites like CertiK and CoinGecko.
- No Hacks or Security Breaches: Check whether an exchange has avoided hacks in the last five years. If one has been hacked, see whether they fixed the issue; this says a lot about their security
What Payment Methods Are Available On EU-regulated Crypto Exchanges?
We compiled data from our exchange reviews to create the table below, which provides you with an approximate idea of the fees and wait times you can expect for each payment method on centralized exchanges.
What Types of Fees Should I Compare When Choosing a Crypto Exchange?
- Fixed vs. Percentage Fees: Fixed fees are better for large trades, while percentage fees add to frequent small ones. Check out our 7 lowest fee crypto exchanges.
- Maker & Taker Fees: These are core trading costs. Makers add liquidity, takers remove it. Some platforms offer zero maker fees.
- Deposit Fees: Most deposits are free, but some platforms charge small or hidden fees — always check first.
- Withdrawal Fees: Fees to move funds to your wallet or bank vary widely by asset and method.
- Conversion Fees: Extra charges may apply when swapping fiat to crypto, especially with rare currencies
- Network Fees (Blockchain Fees): Exchanges may charge blockchain fees for crypto withdrawals. Some pass them through, others pad them.
What Should I Avoid When Choosing a Regulated Crypto Exchange in Europe?
When choosing a regulated crypto exchange in Europe, there are still important red flags to watch out for:
- Licensing issues: Make sure the exchange holds proper licenses (like a VASP or MiCA CASP) and is registered with reputable European regulators.
- Security history: Steer clear of platforms that have suffered repeated hacks or lack a clear security response.
- Lack of transparency: Don’t trust exchanges that hide their leadership or ownership details. A legitimate platform is open about who’s behind it.
- No proof of reserves: Exchanges that don’t publish 1:1 asset backing and regular audits are riskier.
- Phishing and fake apps: Be cautious of fake versions of real platforms. Always verify URLs and only use official app stores.
Additional Measures to Protect Yourself:
- Use strong passwords and 2FA
- Set up anti-phishing codes
- Avoid unofficial promotions
Do I Need To Pay Taxes On Crypto In Europe, And How Does It Work?
Yes, most European countries, both EU and non-EU, tax crypto in some form. Profits are usually classified under existing systems like capital gains or income tax, depending on the activity and the local rules.
We’ve reviewed how countries handle crypto taxation and summarized the basics in the table below. This guide is meant to give you a general overview, but it is not a substitute for professional advice.
Crypto tax laws can change quickly and vary widely by jurisdiction. For accurate, up-to-date information that fits your specific situation, we recommend speaking to a licensed tax advisor.
FXEmpire is not a tax advisor. While we strive to provide reliable information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or legal accuracy across all jurisdictions.
Western EU Countries
Eastern & Central EU Countries
Non-EU / Other Europe
