Beginning January 1, 2026, Belgium will impose a 10% capital gains tax on financial assets, such as stocks and cryptocurrencies. This represents a substantial change from the nation’s prior strategy, in which such gains—particularly from long-term, private investments—were mainly tax-free.
With particular provisions to protect small investors, the new law seeks to establish a more equitable and balanced fiscal system. Individuals who have not registered any capital gains in the previous five years will receive a yearly tax exemption of €10,000, which rises to €15,000.
Additionally, a €1 million exemption will be granted to larger shareholders who own 20% or more of a corporation. Depending on the gain’s magnitude, any capital gains over this threshold will be subject to progressive taxation ranging from 1.25 percent to 10 percent.
Gains can be offset by losses in the same year, and as the reform won’t take effect retroactively, only profits realised after January 1, 2026, will be subject to taxes. In order to maintain long-term financial security for Belgian citizens, pension savings, group insurance plans, and retirement-oriented products will continue to be excluded.
