Germany's parliament has passed a bill that would allow customs authorities to seize cryptocurrency holdings worth more than €100,000 when there are factual indications that the assets may have an illegal origin, according to information shared by Coin Bureau. The proposed rules would cover Bitcoin and other crypto assets, with authorities able to hold them for an initial 30 days without requiring a criminal case.
The measure introduces a mechanism for customs officials to temporarily secure cryptocurrency whose origin cannot be clearly established. However, the value threshold alone would not be sufficient to justify a seizure. Authorities would still need factual signs indicating that the assets may have come from illegal activity.
Crypto Assets Could Be Held for Up to 180 Days
Under the bill, customs authorities could initially retain Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency assets of unclear origin for 30 days. A finance court could then authorize an extension of the holding period by an additional 150 days.
If the extension is granted, the combined period could reach 180 days. The proposed procedure would therefore allow authorities to keep qualifying crypto assets in custody while their origin is examined, even when no criminal case has been initiated.
The €100,000 threshold is a central element of the measure, but it does not automatically make large cryptocurrency holdings subject to seizure. The bill requires customs authorities to identify factual indications of an illegal origin, rather than relying solely on the size of an individual's crypto balance.
Bundesrat Approval Still Required
Although Germany's parliament has passed the bill, the legislative process is not yet complete. The measure must still receive approval from the Bundesrat, the chamber representing Germany's 16 states.
If the Bundesrat approves the legislation, markets the new rules are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. Until that approval is secured, the proposed customs powers remain subject to the outstanding legislative step.
The bill would give German customs authorities a specific mechanism to retain cryptocurrency holdings above €100,000 when there are factual indications of an illegal source. Its provisions include an initial 30-day holding period and a possible 150-day extension authorized by a finance court.
Writer: Victoria Hale Technology & Blockchain Writer
Victoria Hale writes about blockchain technology, digital infrastructure, and the intersection of emerging technologies with finance. Her articles explore how new protocols and systems are shaping the evolving digital economy.
She prioritises clarity and accuracy when explaining technical developments to a general audience.
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The articles on Hokanews are here to keep you updated on the latest buzz in crypto, tech, and beyond—but they’re not financial advice. We’re sharing info, trends, and insights, not telling you to buy, sell, or invest. Always do your own homework before making any money moves.
Hokanews isn’t responsible for any losses, gains, or chaos that might happen if you act on what you read here. Investment decisions should come from your own research—and, ideally, guidance from a qualified financial advisor. Remember: crypto and tech move fast, info changes in a blink, and while we aim for accuracy, we can’t promise it’s 100% complete or up-to-date.
