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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Gmail logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Gmail

🇺🇸Google · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Gmail is an email service developed by Google, offering users a platform to send, receive, and organize emails. It provides 15 GB of free storage, allowing users to store a significant number of emails and attachments. Gmail includes features such as Smart Compose suggestions, which help users draft emails more efficiently, and advanced spam filtering to minimize unwanted emails. Users can also access Google Meet directly from their inbox for video conferencing needs. The service allows for customizable email labels and scheduled email sending, enhancing organization and communication flexibility. Gmail's Priority Inbox feature helps users focus on important messages by automatically sorting emails based on importance. Additionally, Gmail's search functionality enables users to easily find specific emails within their archives. The service is primarily used by individuals, professionals, and businesses seeking a comprehensive email solution. It's important to note that Gmail is a US-based service, and user data is stored in the United States, subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. Gmail is available for free, with additional storage and features available through a paid subscription model.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Gmail

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Gmail, 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

5 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.

5 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Gmail

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Proton Mail is a secure email service provider based in Switzerland, designed with a strong emphasis on privacy and security. It offers end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and your intended recipient can read your messages. Proton Mail is ideal for individuals and organizations who prioritize data protection and privacy, particularly those in Europe who benefit from its EU-hosted infrastructure. Key features include encrypted email communication, no logging of IP addresses, and a user-friendly interface that makes secure communication accessible to all. Proton Mail's commitment to privacy is further reinforced by its compliance with EU data protection regulations, including GDPR, providing users with peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and security. The service offers a range of pricing plans, from a free tier with basic features to premium options that include additional storage and custom domain support, catering to both personal and professional users. By choosing Proton Mail, users can trust that their data is handled with the utmost care and confidentiality, in accordance with stringent European privacy standards.

EU-hostedEU-BasedOpen SourceGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:3-5 days

Why switch?

  • Proton Mail offers end-to-end encryption by default.
  • Servers in Switzerland offer strong privacy laws.
  • Open source code allows for transparency and trust.

Consider

  • Proton Mail's free plan offers only 500 MB storage.
  • No integrated video call feature like Google Meet.
Tuta Mail logo

Tuta Mail

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Tuta Mail is a secure email service designed with privacy at its core, offering end-to-end encryption to ensure that your communications remain confidential. Hosted on EU servers, Tuta Mail adheres to GDPR standards, providing users with peace of mind regarding data privacy and compliance. With a zero-knowledge architecture, Tuta Mail ensures that only you can access your data, not even the service providers. This email service is ideal for individuals and businesses who prioritize privacy and data protection. Tuta Mail allows anonymous registration, requiring no personal data, and supports custom domains, making it a versatile choice for businesses. The open-source email client also includes built-in spam protection features, ensuring a seamless and secure email experience. Tuta Mail's pricing model offers various plans to cater to both personal and business needs, ensuring flexibility and affordability. By choosing Tuta Mail, users benefit from the robust privacy and security measures that come with EU-hosted data, making it a reliable choice for those who value data sovereignty.

EU-hostedEU-BasedISO 27001GDPR CompliantGreen HostingOpen Source
freemiumMigration:3-5 days

Why switch?

  • End-to-end encryption ensures email content privacy.
  • Zero-knowledge architecture means no data access by Tuta Mail.
  • GDPR compliance guarantees strict data protection standards.

Consider

  • Migration from Gmail may involve manual data transfer.
  • Lacks Google Meet integration for video conferencing.
Posteo logo

Posteo

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Posteo is a European email service provider that prioritizes privacy, security, and sustainability. It offers an ad-free email experience powered entirely by renewable energy, ensuring an eco-friendly communication solution. Users can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with Posteo's commitment to GDPR compliance and secure data storage within the EU. Key features include an anonymous sign-up process, end-to-end encryption options, and support for two-factor authentication, making it a robust choice for privacy-conscious individuals and organizations. Posteo also supports custom domain hosting, catering to both personal and business users who require a professional email setup. The service is ideal for those who value data sovereignty and wish to keep their information protected under stringent European data protection laws. Posteo operates on a straightforward pricing model, offering a subscription-based service without the intrusion of advertisements. This ensures that users receive a clean, focused email experience without compromising their privacy.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantCarbon Neutral
subscriptionMigration:3-5 days

Why switch?

  • Ad-free experience enhances focus and productivity
  • 100% renewable energy usage supports sustainability
  • Anonymous sign-up protects personal identity

Consider

  • Migration from Gmail can be time-consuming
  • No integrated video call feature like Google Meet
mailbox logo

mailbox

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Mailbox is a robust email service designed to meet the needs of privacy-conscious users and businesses in Europe. Hosted in EU data centers, it ensures that your emails remain secure and compliant with GDPR privacy regulations. Mailbox offers end-to-end encryption, safeguarding your communications from unauthorized access. Users can benefit from custom domain support, making it ideal for personal branding or business use. The service also integrates seamlessly with calendars and tasks, providing a comprehensive productivity suite. With two-factor authentication options, Mailbox prioritizes your security without compromising on user experience. The platform is ad-free, ensuring an uninterrupted email experience, and utilizes an open-source email client for transparency and flexibility. Mailbox is perfect for individuals, freelancers, and businesses who value privacy and data sovereignty. The service offers various pricing tiers to accommodate different needs, from basic personal accounts to more advanced business solutions. By choosing Mailbox, users can rest assured that their data is stored and managed within the EU, benefiting from stringent data protection laws.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen Source
subscriptionMigration:3-5 days

Why switch?

  • EU-hosted data centers ensure GDPR compliance
  • End-to-end encryption enhances email security
  • Ad-free experience eliminates distractions

Consider

  • Migration from Gmail can be time-consuming
  • Lacks integrated Google Meet access
M

Mailfence

🇧🇪

Mailfence is a secure email service based in Europe, designed to provide users with a privacy-focused communication platform. It offers end-to-end encryption for emails, ensuring that your messages remain confidential. With built-in document collaboration tools and support for OpenPGP, Mailfence facilitates secure communication and teamwork. The service is fully compliant with GDPR, emphasizing data protection and privacy. Mailfence is ideal for individuals and businesses seeking a reliable email solution that prioritizes security and data sovereignty. Its EU-based data servers guarantee that your information is handled according to strict European privacy standards, free from ads and tracking. Additionally, Mailfence offers custom domain email hosting, an integrated calendar, and contact management features, making it a comprehensive communication tool. While specific pricing details are not provided, Mailfence typically offers tiered plans to accommodate different user needs. By choosing Mailfence, users benefit from a secure, ad-free, and privacy-respecting email service hosted within the EU.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen Source
freemiumMigration:3-5 days including waiting time for export and import

Why switch?

  • End-to-end encryption for secure emails
  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection
  • No ads or tracking enhances privacy

Consider

  • Migration from Gmail can be complex
  • Lacks integrated video conferencing

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Gmail
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇨🇭Proton MailCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇩🇪Tuta MailDEYesYesYesfreemium
🇩🇪PosteoDEYesYesYessubscription
🇩🇪mailboxDEYesYesYessubscription
🇧🇪MailfenceBEYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gmail GDPR compliant?

Gmail is a US-based service operated by Google. 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 Gmail?

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 Gmail?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Gmail include Proton Mail, Tuta Mail, Posteo. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. This helps support our mission to promote European alternatives. Our recommendations are based on objective criteria.

Last updated: January 26, 2026