Legislative developments in France concerning crypto-assets, particularly in the context of the Finance Bill for 2025, are of concern to crypto-asset holders. Indeed, this bill envisages incorporating into French law the provisions of the “DAC8” directive adopted on October 17, 2023 by the Council of the European Union. From 1ᵉʳ January 2026, crypto-asset service providers (“CASSPs”) would be required to declare directly to the French tax authorities crypto-asset transactions carried out through them on behalf of third parties. What’s more, the tax authorities havesophisticated tools such as data mining at their disposal to step up their tax inspections, particularly of foreign platforms.
Against this backdrop of tightening tax legislation, and in the absence of anexit tax on crypto-assets, some crypto holders are seeking information with a view to expatriating to more crypto-friendly and tax-friendly climes.
Switzerland thus presents itself as an attractive destination for crypto-asset holders in search of a more lenient tax environment. In addition to thetax exemption on gains from the sale of crypto-assets (as long as they are considered part of private assets), Switzerland is not part of the European Union and is therefore not subject to the “DAC8” directive. What’s more, innovative options make it possible to pay certain bills in Bitcoin, and even to pay taxes in cryptocurrency in certain cantons(Zug, for example), further enhancing the country’s appeal to crypto-asset holders.
Before embarking on an expatriation project, it is nevertheless crucial to find out about the administrative and tax implications of transferring one’s tax residence to Switzerland. The procedure is complex, and often requires breaking legal ties in France to establish residence in Switzerland.
Calling on experts in Franco-Swiss tax law is highly recommended to navigate this process efficiently, guaranteeing a smooth move.