Top Crypto Platforms in the Netherlands

As cryptocurrency gains traction in the Netherlands, local investors must choose platforms registered with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). We tested the leading crypto exchanges based on EUR deposit options, accessibility to Dutch residents, trading fees, supported languages, and features. Here is a comparison table of the five best options.

1. Kraken

Kraken is the most trusted cryptocurrency exchange in the Netherlands, offering services to 10 million users globally. It supports over 320 cryptocurrencies for spot trading and over 100 futures contracts for trading with up to 5x leverage. 

Dutch traders value its advanced security measures, including cold storage, regularly updated proof-of-reserve audits, and two-factor authentication (2FA). For institutional clients, Kraken provides an OTC desk for large trades and custody solutions.  

Users can also stake more than 25 cryptocurrencies and earn up to 30% APY or trade thousands of NFTs through the in-built NFT marketplace. There are multiple EUR deposit options, Dutch-speaking customer support and it is registered with the DNB.

• Fees: Maker fees start at 0.16%, and taker fees start at 0.26%.
• Supported Assets: Over 320 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered with the De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) under Registration No. R194010.
• EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA transfers, iDEAL, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and bank wire.

2. eToro

eToro is a leading multi-asset trading platform offering a diverse range of financial instruments, including cryptocurrencies, commodities, and more. Dutch investors can access over 7,000 assets, enabling portfolio diversification across various markets. 

The user-friendly interface and innovative features, such as demo trading and CopyTrader™, allow users to replicate the trades of successful investors in real time. The platform specialises in social trading, fostering a community where users can share strategies and insights. 

Additionally, eToro offers Smart Portfolios, professionally managed portfolios focusing on various market themes, providing investors with a hands-off approach. In the Netherlands, eToro is registered as a crypto service provider with DNB, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

• Fees: 0% trading fees, but spreads vary between 1% - 3%, depending on the asset.
• Supported Assets: Over 7,000 assets, including 100 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: eToro (Europe) Ltd is listed in the DNB public register as a crypto service provider.
• EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA, iDEAL, bank transfers and credit/debit cards.

3. OKX

OKX is an exchange that supports over 350 cryptocurrencies for spot trading, hundreds of futures contracts, and margin trading. It also provides a decentralized exchange (DEX) feature, allowing users to trade, stake, lend and borrow directly from their wallets.

Beyond trading, it offers innovative products like the OKX Wallet, which supports multiple blockchains and provides access to DeFi services, including staking and yield farming. The platform also features an NFT marketplace, enabling users to explore, buy, and sell NFTs.

It also facilitates EUR deposits and withdrawals through various payment methods. The platform's competitive fee structure and Dutch customer support further contribute to its reputation as a reliable choice for cryptocurrency traders in the Netherlands.

• Fees: Maker fee 0.08%, taker fee 0.1%.
• Supported Assets: Over 350 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Holds a crypto service provider registration with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB).
• EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA, bank transfers, credit cards and debit cards.

4. Bitvavo

Bitvavo is a leading Dutch cryptocurrency exchange based in Amsterdam, offering a user-friendly platform for buying, selling, and storing over 300 digital assets. Established in 2018, it has become the largest and most competitively priced exchange in the Netherlands.

It provides staking services with up to 15% APY, a recurring buy option for automated investing, and an intuitive mobile app for trading on the go. Security is a priority, with measures like an Account Guarantee that may reimburse up to €100,000 in case of unauthorized access.

For advanced traders, Bitvavo's Pro Mode offers professional-grade tools, including advanced charting, resizable modules, and low fees on USDC pairs. Institutional clients benefit from tailored services, high liquidity euro markets, and reliable banking infrastructure.

• Fees: Trading fees start from 0.25%.
• Supported Assets: Over 300 digital assets.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) as a fiat-to-digital asset exchange and hosted wallet provider.
• EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA bank transfers and iDEAL.

5. Gate.io

Gate.io is a top exchange in the Netherlands, offering access to over 3,300 digital assets for spot trading with competitive fees and tight spreads. The platform also supports hundreds of derivatives contracts and leveraged tokens to trade with up to 100x leverage.

Beyond trading, Gate.io offers features like staking through its "Earn" program, allowing users to earn rewards on their crypto holdings. The platform also supports a peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplace, enabling users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly with one another. 

It is committed to compliance and transparency, adhering to international regulatory standards and conducting regular proof-of-reserve audits to maintain user trust. The exchange supports multiple fiat currencies for deposits and withdrawals, including Euros.

• Fees: Trading fees start at 0.2% for both makers and takers.
• Supported Assets: Access to over 3,300 cryptocurrencies and tokens.
• Regulation & Licensing: It is not regulated by the DNB but is available in the country.
• EUR Deposit Methods: Credit cards and debit cards.

Is Crypto Regulated in the Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, cryptocurrency activities are subject to stringent regulations to ensure financial integrity and consumer protection. The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) oversees the licensing of crypto-asset service providers (CASPs), including exchanges and wallet providers. 

Starting December 30, 2024, these entities must obtain authorization from the AFM to operate legally within the country. This regulatory framework aligns with the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), which introduces uniform standards for digital assets across EU member states. 

The AFM began accepting license applications on April 22, 2024, with approved licenses becoming effective from December 30, 2024. Entities currently registered with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) are required to transition to AFM licensing by June 30, 2025. 

How is Crypto Taxed in the Netherlands?

The Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst) states cryptocurrency holdings are subject to taxation under the wealth tax framework, specifically in Box 3, which pertains to savings and investments. 

Individuals are granted a tax-free allowance of €57,000 (€114,000 for couples); any assets exceeding this threshold are taxed based on a deemed return, with rates varying according to the composition of one's portfolio. 

For instance, savings are assigned a lower fictitious return compared to investments like cryptocurrencies. The cumulative deemed return is then taxed at a flat rate of 36%. It's important to note that the valuation of assets is determined annually on January 1st.

Cryptocurrency Adoption in the Netherlands

Cryptocurrency adoption in the Netherlands is steadily increasing, with an estimated 5.64 million people (approximately 31.84% of the population) expected to hold digital assets by mid-2025.

The market generated $400.3 million in revenue in 2024 and is projected to increase by 4% by the end of 2025, showcasing strong interest from both retail investors and businesses. 

This momentum is driven by local platforms like Bitvavo, alongside international exchanges such as Kraken, offering Dutch users secure and regulated avenues to trade and invest in cryptocurrencies. 

How to Buy Bitcoin in the Netherlands

For Dutch investors, buying Bitcoin begins with choosing a regulated exchange approved by De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

1. Create an Account: Sign up with a DNB-registered exchange. Provide your basic details, like name and email address. Complete the verification process by submitting a government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver’s license.
2. Deposit Euros: Navigate to the deposit section on the exchange platform. Select the amount of Euros you wish to invest and choose a payment method, such as iDEAL or SEPA bank transfer. Follow the instructions to finalize your deposit.
3. Locate Bitcoin: Use the search bar on the trading page to find Bitcoin (BTC). Select the BTC/EUR trading pair to proceed.
4. Execute the Trade: Input the amount of Bitcoin you want to buy, double-check the transaction details, and confirm the trade.

You're now ready to start your Bitcoin journey in the Netherlands.

Bottom Line

The Netherlands is a thriving European cryptocurrency hub, supported by local regulations enforced by De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) and the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM). 

Leading exchanges like Kraken, Bitvavo, OKX, eToro, and Gate.io provide Dutch users with secure platforms for trading, investing, and earning with cryptocurrencies.