Belgium to introduce 10% capital gains tax on shares, crypto from January 2026

Belgium will begin taxing capital gains on financial assets such as shares and cryptocurrencies starting January 1, 2026, as part of a broader fiscal reform. The move aligns the country with most of its European neighbours, where such taxes are already in place.

Until now, Belgium was among the few EU countries that did not tax capital gains on financial assets for individual investors. While the country has one of the highest income tax rates in Europe—reaching up to 50%, capital gains from investments were largely exempt.

Under the new system, a 10% capital gains tax will be levied on profits made from financial assets. The tax will be applied only when gains are realised—for example, through the sale of assets—and will apply only to gains made after the law takes effect.

Every investor will receive an annual exemption on the first €10,000 in capital gains. For those who have not made capital gains in the previous five years, the exemption rises to €15,000 annually.

“This way, we offer maximum protection to long-term small investors,” said Finance Minister Jan Jambon, who announced the reform on social media.

For those holding a minimum 20% stake in a company, a progressive tax rate will apply instead, with a €1 million exemption spread over a five-year period.

Meanwhile, pension savings products and group insurance plans will remain fully exempt from the new capital gains tax.

According to the government, the tax will help fund pension reform, boost defence spending, and support stricter migration policies.