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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Midjourney logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Midjourney

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

Midjourney is a United States-based company founded in 2022 that specializes in artificial intelligence and language models. The product is designed to assist users in generating human-like text and understanding natural language inputs. Key features include advanced language processing capabilities, a user-friendly interface, and integration options for various applications. Midjourney's services are primarily aimed at businesses and developers who require sophisticated language processing tools for tasks such as content creation, customer support automation, and data analysis. It operates on a paid pricing model, which allows users to access its features based on their subscription level. It is important to note that data processed by Midjourney is stored in the United States and is subject to US data laws, including the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. This means that user data is under US jurisdiction, which may have implications for users concerned about data privacy and international data transfer regulations.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Midjourney

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Midjourney, 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 Midjourney

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Stable Diffusion logo

Stable Diffusion

🌍

by Stability AI

Open-source image generation model. Run locally or via API. Stable Diffusion XL, Stable Video, and Stable Audio products. Strong open-source community.

Open SourceSelf-Hostable
freemiumMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Stable Diffusion is open source, allowing for custom modifications.
  • Self-hosting options provide full control over data and operations.
  • Potentially lower costs with self-hosting versus Midjourney's paid model.

Consider

  • Migration may require significant technical expertise and resources.
  • User interface may not be as intuitive as Midjourney's design.
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Visit Stable Diffusion

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Midjourney
United StatesNoPartialNopaid
🌍Stable DiffusionGBYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Midjourney GDPR compliant?

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

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 Midjourney?

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

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

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

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Midjourney. 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 AI & Language Models

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Last updated: January 26, 2026