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GDPR Compliance Risk

Visual Studio is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

Visual Studio logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Visual Studio

🇺🇸Visual Studio · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Visual Studio is a comprehensive integrated development environment (IDE) developed by Microsoft, designed to assist developers in writing, debugging, and deploying applications across various platforms. It supports multiple programming languages, making it a versatile tool for developers working on diverse projects. Key features include integrated debugging tools, IntelliSense code completion, and built-in Git version control, which streamline the development process. Visual Studio also offers visual designers for UI development and Azure cloud integration, enhancing its utility for cloud-based applications. The platform is suitable for professional developers, software engineers, and teams who require a robust environment for application development. Visual Studio operates on a freemium pricing model, providing a free tier with essential features and paid options for advanced functionalities. It is important to note that Visual Studio is a US-based product, and user data is stored in the United States under US jurisdiction, subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Visual Studio

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Visual Studio has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.

While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.

For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based office suites is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Visual Studio, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Visual Studio, even if servers are located in Europe.

GDPR Fine Risk

Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.

EU Alternative Available

1 GDPR-compliant European alternative available with full EU data residency.

1 GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Visual Studio

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

JetBrains logo

JetBrains

🇪🇺

by JetBrains

JetBrains is a cutting-edge software vendor specializing in the creation of intelligent development tools, including IntelliJ IDEA – the leading Java IDE, and the Kotlin programming language.

GDPR CompliantOpen Source
subscriptionMigration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection in the EU.
  • IntelliJ IDEA excels in Java development with advanced refactoring.
  • Kotlin support is native, enhancing development for Android apps.

Consider

  • Migration from Visual Studio can be time-consuming.
  • JetBrains lacks built-in Azure cloud integration.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit JetBrains

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Visual Studio
United StatesNoPartialNofreemium
🇪🇺JetBrainsEUYesYesYessubscription

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Visual Studio GDPR compliant?

Visual Studio is a US-based service operated by Visual Studio. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.

What are the GDPR risks of using Visual Studio?

The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.

What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Visual Studio?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Visual Studio include JetBrains. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from Visual Studio to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Visual Studio using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Can EU companies legally use Visual Studio?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Visual Studio. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.

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Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026