Spain to implement new crypto regulations MiCA and DAC8 in 2026

According to TechFlow, on December 24, as reported by CriptoNoticias, Spain will fully implement two key cryptocurrency regulatory frameworks in 2026: the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) and the Directive on Administrative Cooperation (DAC8). MiCA will come into full effect on July 1, 2026, requiring all crypto service providers to obtain full authorization in order to continue operating. DAC8 will be implemented starting January 1, 2026, mandating exchanges to report users' transactions, balances, and fund flow information to EU tax authorities.

Tax experts warn that the Spanish tax authority will have the power to directly freeze or liquidate users' assets on exchanges to settle tax debts. They advise users to consider self-custody solutions, as self-custody wallets are not subject to these reporting requirements.