Spain to Enforce Comprehensive Oversight of Crypto Transactions Starting 2026
Spain is set to introduce sweeping oversight measures on the cryptocurrency market beginning in 2026, as part of new regulatory steps aimed at bringing all crypto-asset transactions under full government supervision.
Under updated European regulatory frameworks, crypto-assets will be formally integrated into the regulated financial system. Companies operating in the sector will be required to obtain official European licenses to continue operating within Spain. A transition period will remain in place until July 2026, after which non-compliant entities will be forced to cease operations in the country.
The move coincides with the implementation of the DAC8 tax directive, which will come into force at the start of 2026. The directive mandates cryptocurrency platforms to report all transaction details to tax authorities with no minimum value threshold, including very small transactions. This marks a clear departure from disclosure practices traditionally applied within the conventional banking system.
Reporting requirements will apply to all centralized crypto platforms operating across the European Union, obliging them to transmit transaction data to national tax authorities by 2027. Privately owned digital wallets held by individuals, however, will remain outside the scope of this direct regulatory framework.
Spain’s decision comes amid a fragmented global regulatory landscape for digital assets. While some countries are moving toward tighter controls and higher taxation, others are adopting more flexible approaches to foster innovation and investment. Against this backdrop, companies and investors in Spain are preparing to adapt to the new rules, amid growing concerns over financial privacy and the potential migration of certain activities to more crypto-friendly jurisdictions.