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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

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GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Canva

🇺🇸Canva Pty Ltd · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Online graphic design platform for creating social media graphics, presentations, posters, and marketing materials.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Canva

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Canva 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 design & creative tools is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Canva, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Canva, 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 Canva

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Penpot logo

Penpot

🇪🇸

by Kaleidos Open Source

Penpot by Kaleidos is an open-source design and prototyping tool that allows users to create vector graphics and interactive prototypes. It supports collaboration among design teams, enabling real-time feedback and version control. Compatible with various platforms, it is designed for both designers and developers.

GDPR CompliantEU-BasedOpen SourceSelf-Hostable
freeMigration:●●●

Why switch?

  • Open source allows for customization and community-driven improvements.
  • Self-hosting options give control over data and server location.
  • Real-time collaboration supports multiple users editing simultaneously.

Consider

  • Migration from Canva may require time to adapt to new workflows.
  • Limited template library compared to Canva's extensive offerings.
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Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Canva
United StatesNoPartialNofreemium
🇪🇸PenpotESYesYesYesfree

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Canva GDPR compliant?

Canva is a US-based service operated by Canva Pty Ltd. 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 Canva?

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 Canva?

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

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

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Canva 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 Canva?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Canva. 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.

Other GDPR Alternatives in Design & Creative Tools

GDPR Alternative to InVisionGDPR Alternative to FigmaGDPR Alternative to Adobe Creative CloudGDPR Alternative to Adobe InDesignGDPR Alternative to Adobe LightroomGDPR Alternative to Adobe Photoshop

Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 29, 2026