Skip to main content
BuiltInEu

GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Google Drive logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Google Drive

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

Google Drive is a cloud storage service developed by Google, allowing users to store files online and access them from any internet-connected device. It provides 15 GB of free storage space, which can be used for documents, photos, and other file types. Google Drive is integrated with Google Workspace apps, enabling real-time collaboration on documents and spreadsheets. Users can track file version history and set advanced sharing permissions to control access. Additionally, the service offers offline access to files and the ability to search content within documents. Google Drive is widely used by individuals, professionals, and organizations seeking a centralized platform for file storage and collaboration. It operates under a freemium model, with additional storage available for purchase. It is important to note that Google Drive is based in the United States, and user data is stored under US jurisdiction, subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Google Drive

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Google Drive, 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 Google Drive

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Proton Drive logo

Proton Drive

🇨🇭

by Proton

Proton Drive is an end-to-end encrypted cloud storage service from Proton AG, the Swiss company behind Proton Mail. Launched in 2022, it encrypts all files and metadata client-side before upload — Proton has zero access to your data. It integrates with the Proton ecosystem (Mail, Calendar, VPN, Pass) and offers photo backup, file versioning, and secure sharing links. Free tier includes 5 GB; paid plans up to 3 TB.

EU-hostedEU-BasedOpen SourceGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●2-3 days

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
  • End-to-end encryption on all plans enhances security.
  • Open source allows for transparency and trust.

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be time-consuming.
  • Lacks real-time collaboration features.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Proton Drive
pCloud logo

pCloud

🇨🇭

by pCloud

pCloud is a Swiss cloud storage provider founded in 2013 and headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. It offers lifetime storage plans (a rarity in cloud storage), with optional client-side encryption (pCloud Crypto) as an add-on. Free tier includes 10 GB; paid plans offer up to 10 TB with file versioning, sharing, and automatic backups. Data is stored in Luxembourg (EU) or the US, selectable by the user at signup.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●2-3 days

Why switch?

  • EU-hosted data centers ensure GDPR compliance
  • Client-side encryption for enhanced data security
  • Lifetime storage plans reduce long-term costs

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be time-consuming
  • Lacks real-time collaboration on documents
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit pCloud
Tresorit logo

Tresorit

🇨🇭

by Tresorit AG

Tresorit is a Swiss-Hungarian end-to-end encrypted cloud storage and collaboration platform founded in 2011 by Istvan Lam, Szilveszter Szebeni, and Gyorgy Szilagyi. Headquartered in Zurich and acquired by Swiss Post in 2021 (while remaining independently operated), Tresorit uses zero-knowledge RSA-4096 encryption — meaning even Tresorit staff cannot access your files. The platform serves businesses that handle sensitive data: legal firms, healthcare, finance, and government. Beyond basic cloud storage, Tresorit offers secure data rooms (Tresorit Engage), electronic signatures (eSign), and email encryption.

Swiss hostedISO 27001GDPR CompliantEU-BasedISO 27017ISO 27018EU-hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●3-5 days

Why switch?

  • Zero-knowledge encryption ensures file privacy.
  • GDPR compliance for EU data protection standards.
  • ISO 27001:2022 certified for security management.

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be complex.
  • No real-time document collaboration feature.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Tresorit
Nextcloud logo

Nextcloud

🇩🇪

by Nextcloud GmbH

Nextcloud is a self-hosted cloud storage solution designed to provide secure and compliant data management for individuals and organizations. It offers end-to-end encryption for files, ensuring that your data remains private and protected. With GDPR-compliant data processing, Nextcloud is an ideal choice for those prioritizing data sovereignty and privacy, especially within the European Union. Key features include version control for file revisions, collaborative document editing, and two-factor authentication support, making it a robust tool for both personal and professional use. The platform is extensible with third-party apps, allowing users to customize their experience according to their needs. Nextcloud is suitable for businesses, educational institutions, and privacy-conscious individuals who require a reliable and secure cloud storage solution. With cross-platform mobile and desktop apps, users can access their data anytime, anywhere. Pricing varies based on the deployment model, with options for both free and enterprise-level support. By hosting data within the EU, Nextcloud ensures compliance with stringent data protection regulations, offering peace of mind to its users.

EU-hostedEU-BasedISO 27001BSI C5GDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableEU Ecolabel
freemiumMigration:●●●3-5 days

Why switch?

  • Self-hosted: Full control over data location
  • GDPR compliant: Meets EU privacy regulations
  • End-to-end encryption: Optional for sensitive files

Consider

  • Migration pain: Manual data transfer required
  • Learning curve: New interface and features
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Nextcloud
Infomaniak kDrive logo

Infomaniak kDrive

🇨🇭

by Infomaniak

Infomaniak kDrive is a cloud storage and collaboration platform from Geneva-based Infomaniak, Switzerland's largest independent cloud provider. It offers 15 GB free (up to 106 TB on team plans), with real-time document collaboration via an integrated OnlyOffice editor, file versioning up to 100 versions, and end-to-end encryption. All data is stored exclusively in Infomaniak's Swiss data centers, powered by renewable energy.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGreen HostingGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●2-3 days including data export time

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection
  • End-to-end encryption secures all stored files
  • EU-based servers offer data sovereignty

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be time-consuming
  • Fewer third-party app integrations than Google
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Infomaniak kDrive

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Google Drive
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇨🇭Proton DriveCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇨🇭pCloudCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇨🇭TresoritCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇩🇪NextcloudDEYesYesYesfreemium
🇨🇭Infomaniak kDriveCHYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Google Drive GDPR compliant?

Google Drive 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 Google Drive?

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 Google Drive?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Google Drive include Proton Drive, pCloud, Tresorit. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

GDPR Alternative to DropboxGDPR Alternative to OneDriveGDPR Alternative to AWSGDPR Alternative to iCloudGDPR Alternative to Box

Related Pages

Migration Resources

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

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Google Drive (2026) | BuiltInEu | BuiltInEu