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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Notion logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Notion

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

Notion, developed by Notion Labs, Inc., is a project management and collaboration tool based in the United States. It offers a versatile platform where users can organize their work through a block-based editor, allowing for the creation of databases, wiki pages, and project boards. Notion is designed to facilitate real-time collaboration, making it suitable for teams and individuals looking to streamline their workflow. The platform provides a variety of templates to help users get started quickly and offers API access for enhanced customization and integration with other tools. Notion operates on a freemium pricing model, providing basic features for free while offering premium features at a cost. It is important to note that user data is stored in the United States and is subject to US data laws, including the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. This may be a consideration for users concerned about data jurisdiction. The tool is primarily used by professionals, teams, and organizations seeking a centralized workspace for managing projects and information.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Notion

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Notion 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 Notion, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Notion, 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 Notion

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Cryptee logo

Cryptee

🇪🇪

by Cryptee

Cryptee is a secure, open-source cloud storage service based in Estonia, designed for individuals and organizations seeking privacy-focused file hosting. It offers a robust platform for storing and managing files with an emphasis on security and data sovereignty. Cryptee's key differentiator is its commitment to privacy, ensuring that all data is encrypted and stored within the EU, adhering to GDPR regulations. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize data protection and compliance with European privacy standards. The service is particularly suited for privacy-conscious individuals, businesses, and professionals who require secure data storage solutions. With a free pricing model, Cryptee provides accessible and reliable cloud storage without compromising on security. Users benefit from the peace of mind that their data is hosted in a jurisdiction known for strong privacy laws, offering a significant advantage over non-EU alternatives.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen Source
freeMigration:â—Źâ—Źâ—ŹSeveral hours to a day, depending on data size

Why switch?

  • EU-hosted servers ensure GDPR compliance.
  • Open-source code allows for transparency.
  • E2E encryption on all plans secures data.

Consider

  • Migration from Notion can be time-consuming.
  • Cryptee lacks Notion's real-time collaboration.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Cryptee
Stackfield logo

Stackfield

🇩🇪

by Stackfield GmbH

Stackfield is a German secure collaboration platform combining project management, document sharing, and team communication. End-to-end encrypted with all data hosted in Germany. Designed for teams requiring high security and GDPR compliance.

GDPR CompliantISO 27001EU-BasedISO 27017ISO 27018BSI C5EU-hosted
subscriptionMigration:â—Źâ—Źâ—Ź1-2 days

Why switch?

  • End-to-end encryption ensures data security for all users.
  • Stackfield's servers are located in Germany, ensuring EU data residency.
  • Full GDPR compliance provides legal protection for data handling.

Consider

  • Migration from Notion may require manual data transfer and reformatting.
  • Stackfield lacks advanced database features found in Notion.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Stackfield
Anytype logo

Anytype

🇨🇭

by Anytype

Create notes, tasks, databases, and chats that only you can access. Your data stays on your device — fully owned, secure, and private. Free to start.

EU-BasedSelf-HostableOpen SourceSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:â—Źâ—Źâ—ŹSeveral hours to a day, depending on workspace size

Why switch?

  • Local storage keeps data on your device, enhancing control.
  • End-to-end encryption secures all notes, ensuring privacy.
  • Offline access with auto-sync allows work without internet.

Consider

  • Migration from Notion may require manual data transfer.
  • Learning curve for new interface and features.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Anytype
Zenkit logo

Zenkit

🇩🇪

by Axonic Informationssysteme

Zenkit is a German flexible project management and database platform. Offers multiple views including Kanban, table, calendar, and mind map. Built with privacy in mind with GDPR compliance and German data hosting. Modular suite of productivity tools.

GDPR CompliantEU-BasedEU-hosted
freemiumMigration:â—Źâ—Źâ—Ź1-2 days

Why switch?

  • Zenkit offers multiple views like Kanban, List, and Calendar.
  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection for EU users.
  • Zenkit's German hosting provides data residency in the EU.

Consider

  • Migration from Notion may require manual data transfer.
  • Learning curve due to different interface and features.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Zenkit
Nuclino logo

Nuclino

🇩🇪

by Nuclino

Nuclino is a German collaborative knowledge base and wiki software. Combines documents, project management, and team collaboration in a simple, fast interface. Features real-time collaboration, graph view, and clean design. GDPR compliant with servers in EU.

GDPR CompliantSOC 2EU-BasedISO 27001ISO 27018EU-hosted
freemiumMigration:â—Źâ—Źâ—ŹSeveral hours to a day, depending on workspace size

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance with EU-based servers
  • Graph view for visualizing connections
  • ISO 27001 and ISO 27018 certified

Consider

  • Migration from Notion can be complex
  • Lacks block-based editor of Notion
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Nuclino

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Notion
United StatesNoPartialNofreemium
🇪🇪CrypteeEEYesYesYesfree
🇩🇪StackfieldDEYesYesYessubscription
🇨🇭AnytypeCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇩🇪ZenkitDEYesYesYesfreemium
🇩🇪NuclinoDEYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Notion GDPR compliant?

Notion is a US-based service operated by Notion. 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 Notion?

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 Notion?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Notion include Cryptee, Stackfield, Anytype. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026