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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Okta logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Okta

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

Okta is a leading identity management platform that provides secure single sign-on, multi-factor authentication, and user management solutions. It simplifies access to applications, enhancing security and user experience.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Okta

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Okta, 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

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

3 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Okta

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Keycloak logo

Keycloak

🇪🇺

by Keycloak

Keycloak is an open-source identity and access management solution developed in Europe. It provides features such as single sign-on (SSO), user federation, identity brokering, and social login. Keycloak enables secure authentication and authorization for applications, enhancing user management and security protocols. Visit keycloak.org for more information.

Open SourceSelf-HostableEU-hosted
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Keycloak is open source, allowing for custom modifications.
  • Self-hosting enables full control over data and compliance.
  • GDPR compliance is built-in, reducing legal risks in EU.

Consider

  • Migration may require significant effort and technical expertise.
  • Keycloak lacks some advanced features found in Okta.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Keycloak
Zitadel logo

Zitadel

🇨🇭

by Zitadel

Zitadel is an open-source identity and access management platform developed by the European company Zitadel. It provides developers with tools for user authentication, authorization, and secure data management. The platform supports various protocols and integrates easily with existing applications, ensuring a streamlined user experience.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Zitadel is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring data protection in the EU.
  • Zitadel servers are located in Switzerland, providing EU data residency.
  • Zitadel offers end-to-end encryption on all plans, enhancing security.

Consider

  • Migration from Okta may require significant data transfer efforts.
  • Zitadel's feature set may not match Okta’s extensive integrations.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Zitadel
Authentik logo

Authentik

🇩🇪

by Authentik

Authentik is an open-source identity provider designed for user authentication and authorization. Developed by a European company, it supports various protocols including OAuth2 and SAML, enabling secure access management for applications. Authentik offers a customizable user interface and integrates easily with existing systems.

EU-BasedOpen SourceSelf-HostableSource AvailableEU-hostedGDPR Compliant
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Authentik is EU-based, ensuring compliance with GDPR regulations.
  • Open source nature allows for customization and community support.
  • E2E encryption is optional, enhancing data security for sensitive info.

Consider

  • Migration from Okta may require significant time and resources.
  • Learning curve for Authentik's interface can slow down user adoption.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Authentik

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Okta
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇪🇺KeycloakEUYesYesYes-
🇨🇭ZitadelCHYesYesYes-
🇩🇪AuthentikDEYesYesYes-

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Okta GDPR compliant?

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

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 Okta?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Okta include Keycloak, Zitadel, Authentik. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

Migration Resources

Last updated: February 6, 2026