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Crypto Licensing

Crypto and VASP licensing guides covering MiCA, DAC8, Australia's VASP/AFSL regime, MSB registration, stablecoin rules, and the top jurisdictions for launching a compliant crypto business in 2026.

33 articles in this category

Illustration of federal FinCEN MSB registration and state crypto licensing requirements in the United States
Crypto Licensing

US Crypto License in 2026: FinCEN Registration and State Requirements

US crypto licensing in 2026 covers FinCEN MSB registration, state authorizations and separate rules for securities, derivatives and stablecoins. Requirements depend on services and customer location.

October 7, 20266 min read
Custodial and non-custodial crypto wallets and the point at which a wallet provider needs a license
Crypto Licensing

Crypto Wallet License: When a Wallet Provider Needs to Be Licensed in 2026

A wallet provider needs a license when it can move, freeze, or recover users' crypto. See how the FATF, MiCA, and FinCEN classify custodial, non-custodial, and MPC wallets, which features trigger licensing, and how major jurisdictions compare.

October 3, 20267 min read
Crypto license in Europe: MiCA CASP authorization, capital classes and EU passporting in 2026
Crypto Licensing

Crypto License in Europe: How MiCA CASP Authorization Works in 2026

Since 1 July 2026, firms serving crypto clients in the EU need MiCA CASP authorization; national VASP registrations no longer count. Capital by class, substance rules, review timelines and three cases where another route fits better.

October 1, 20268 min read
Argentina crypto license in 2026: PSAV registration with the CNV, capital tiers and who must register
Crypto Licensing

Argentina Crypto License in 2026: PSAV Registration Requirements, Capital, and Who Must Register

Argentina registers crypto firms as PSAV with the CNV. Capital from $35,000 to $150,000, local entity mandatory, foreign platforms caught by five tests.

September 22, 202612 min read
The four Swiss crypto exchange licensing routes in 2026: SRO membership, fintech license, DLT trading facility and securities firm authorization.
Crypto Licensing

Cryptocurrency Exchange License in Switzerland: Requirements, Costs and the Four Routes

Switzerland has no single crypto exchange license. Which route applies: SRO membership, the fintech license or a DLT trading facility, with 2026 costs and requirements.

September 8, 202611 min read
Australia’s ASIC transition window closing on September 30, represented by glass gates, an Australia silhouette and an interrupted licensing path.
Crypto Licensing

ASIC Issues Final Call: Digital Asset Firms Have Until September 30 to File for an AFS License

Digital asset firms in Australia must lodge an AFS license application by September 30, 2026, or lose ASIC's no-action cover. Three qualifying routes explained.

September 3, 20264 min read
The main crypto licensing regimes in 2026, showing how authorisation requirements differ by jurisdiction and business model.
Crypto Licensing

Crypto Licensing Guide: What a Crypto License Is and Who Needs One

No country issues a single document called a crypto license. The term covers several different authorisations, and which one applies depends on what your business does and where its clients are.

August 30, 20268 min read
The FCA cryptoasset authorisation gateway in 2026, showing the application window and the start of the new UK regime.
Crypto Licensing

UK Crypto License in 2026: How the FCA Authorisation Gateway Works

The FCA opens its cryptoasset authorisation gateway on 30 September 2026 and closes it on 28 February 2027. Firms registered under the Money Laundering Regulations do not convert automatically and must apply again under FSMA.

August 27, 20269 min read
Hong Kong stablecoin licensing under the Stablecoins Ordinance, showing the HKMA regime for fiat-referenced stablecoin issuers.
Crypto Licensing

Hong Kong Stablecoin License: Requirements, Costs and Who Actually Gets One

The HKMA received 36 applications for stablecoin issuer licenses and granted two, both to note-issuing banks. What the regime requires, why the bar sits where it does, and which Hong Kong licenses remain realistic for everyone else.

August 26, 20267 min read
VASP registration in Georgia in 2026: National Bank of Georgia requirements for virtual asset service providers.
Crypto Licensing

VASP License in Georgia: Registration Requirements, Costs and Process

Georgia VASP registration requires an NBG application, a physical office, local monthly presence and direct client servicing. The guide covers capital, costs, restrictions and the registration process.

August 19, 20267 min read
El Salvador crypto license routes in 2026: DASP registration with CNAD and Bitcoin Service Provider registration with the BCR
Crypto Licensing

El Salvador Crypto License: How to Get DASP and BSP Registration in 2026

Malta’s B2C and B2B gaming licenses, four game types, key requirements, fees, and the tax and VAT changes taking effect on 1 October 2026.

July 30, 20269 min read
Dark world map highlighting the EU, US, Canada, El Salvador, Georgia and Australia as leading crypto licensing jurisdictions in 2026.
Crypto Licensing

Best Countries to Get a Crypto License in 2026

Where to get a crypto license in 2026. Compare the EU, US, Canada, El Salvador, Georgia and Australia by costs, timelines and market access.

July 28, 20269 min read
3D illustration symbolising MiCA crypto regulation, CASP licensing and the transition to the new European regulatory framework.
Crypto Licensing

MiCA Grandfathering Is Over: What Are the Options for Crypto Companies Without a CASP Licence?

MiCA grandfathering ended on 1 July 2026. What this means for crypto companies without a CASP licence, and the four options still on the table.

July 14, 20268 min read
Vanuatu Crypto License: Is Vanuatu Becoming a Leading Offshore Crypto Hub in 2026?
Crypto Licensing

Vanuatu Crypto License: Is Vanuatu Becoming a Leading Offshore Crypto Hub in 2026?

Vanuatu is becoming a regulated offshore crypto hub in 2026, offering a structured VASP framework, faster licensing timelines, and stronger AML, Travel Rule, and cybersecurity standards.

May 25, 202610 min read
MiCA Secondary Licensing: How Crypto Firms Can Bridge the Gap Between the EU and Global Markets
Crypto Licensing

MiCA Secondary Licensing: How Crypto Firms Can Bridge the Gap Between the EU and Global Markets

MiCA gives crypto firms a strong EU regulatory base, but global expansion still requires secondary licensing, local approvals, and market-specific compliance planning.

May 25, 202611 min read
VARA vs. CMA Category 7: UAE Crypto Licensing Guide
Crypto Licensing

VARA vs. CMA Category 7: UAE Crypto Licensing Guide

A clear comparison of UAE crypto licensing options, covering VARA requirements, CMA Category 7 authorization, business scope, and compliance considerations.

May 20, 20268 min read
MiCA Regulation: A New Era for EU Crypto Markets
Crypto Licensing

MiCA Regulation: A New Era for EU Crypto Markets

MiCA introduces a unified EU framework for crypto-assets, stablecoins, and CASPs, setting clearer rules for licensing, compliance, and market integrity.

May 18, 20264 min read
Cyprus CASP License: How to Set Up in 2026
Crypto Licensing

Cyprus CASP License: How to Set Up in 2026

Learn how to obtain a Cyprus CASP License in 2026, including MiCAR rules, CySEC authorization, capital requirements, AML/CFT duties, and key application steps.

May 15, 20266 min read
CASP License Business Plan under MiCA: Key Requirements and Structure
Crypto Licensing

CASP License Business Plan under MiCA: Key Requirements and Structure

Learn what a CASP License Business Plan under MiCA should include, from governance and compliance to financial planning, NBS expectations, and EU regulatory readiness.

May 14, 20267 min read
Bosnia and Herzegovina Crypto License: VASP Setup, Requirements, and Tax Overview
Crypto Licensing

Bosnia and Herzegovina Crypto License: VASP Setup, Requirements, and Tax Overview

Explore Bosnia and Herzegovina crypto licensing, including VASP setup, AML/CFT requirements, taxation, registration steps, and key benefits outside the EU MiCA framework.

May 14, 202611 min read
Top Countries for Crypto Businesses in 2026
Crypto Licensing

Top Countries for Crypto Businesses in 2026

Explore the top crypto-friendly countries in 2026, comparing licensing timelines, costs, tax benefits, regulatory clarity, and business setup options for crypto companies.

May 14, 202611 min read
Singapore Crypto Tax 2026: Key Benefits, Tax Rules, and Compliance Risks Explained
Crypto Licensing

Singapore Crypto Tax 2026: Key Benefits, Tax Rules, and Compliance Risks Explained

A practical guide to Singapore crypto tax in 2026, covering IRAS rules, GST treatment, MAS regulation, staking, mining, DPTs, and compliance risks.

May 7, 202610 min read
UK Crypto Tax Rules: How to Avoid Wash Trading Risks and Costly HMRC Mistakes
Crypto Licensing

UK Crypto Tax Rules: How to Avoid Wash Trading Risks and Costly HMRC Mistakes

A practical guide to UK crypto tax rules, HMRC matching rules, the 30-day rule, Section 104 pool, and how investors can avoid costly reporting mistakes.

May 7, 202611 min read
El Salvador Digital Transformation: Bitcoin and AI Driving a High-Tech Sovereign State
Crypto Licensing

El Salvador Digital Transformation: Bitcoin and AI Driving a High-Tech Sovereign State

El Salvador’s 2026 digital transformation combines Bitcoin adoption, AI infrastructure, renewable energy, and tech-focused regulation to build a sovereign digital economy. The strategy aims to attract investment, expand AI education, and position the country as a crypto and AI innovation hub.

May 4, 20263 min read
El Salvador’s Bitcoin Strategy Explained (2026): Investment Guide & Portfolio Analysis
Crypto Licensing

El Salvador’s Bitcoin Strategy Explained (2026): Investment Guide & Portfolio Analysis

El Salvador’s 2026 Bitcoin strategy focuses on long-term BTC accumulation, regulated crypto infrastructure, and national adoption. For individual investors, dollar-cost averaging, secure custody, and risk management are the most practical ways to follow a similar approach.

May 4, 20268 min read
Binance Australia 2026: Regulatory Status and Limits
Crypto Licensing

Binance Australia 2026: Regulatory Status and Limits

Binance operates in Australia under AUSTRAC registration, with derivatives restricted after ASIC action. What its status means for other exchanges in 2026.

March 1, 20266 min read
Australia's financial regulator ASIC is moving to expand its stablecoin distribution relief framework by adding a second approved stablecoin, AUDF, alongside the existing AUDM — a step that signals how regulators are shaping crypto oversight ahead of formal legislation
Crypto Licensing

ASIC moves to Expand Stablecoin Distribution Exemption: What It Means for Australia’s Crypto Regulation

Australia's financial regulator ASIC is moving to expand its stablecoin distribution relief framework by adding a second approved stablecoin, AUDF, alongside the existing AUDM — a step that signals how regulators are shaping crypto oversight ahead of formal legislation.

March 1, 20262 min read
SOLOWIN HOLDINGS Secures Compliant Access to North American Markets
Crypto Licensing

SOLOWIN HOLDINGS Secures Compliant Access to North American Markets by Purchasing a Canadian MSB License

Solowin Holdings (NASDAQ: AXG) expands into North America by acquiring a Canadian MSB license. Learn how this FINTRAC registration enables AlloyX to offer compliant crypto and payment services.

February 10, 20262 min read
ADGM Emerges as the Institutional Hub for Tokenized Real-World Assets
Crypto Licensing

ADGM Emerges as the Institutional Hub for Tokenized Real-World Assets

Abu Dhabi launches the world's first agricultural RWA exchange. Analyze Maalexi's success in ADGM and compare UAE crypto frameworks (ADGM vs. DIFC vs. VARA) to avoid costly licensing delays.

February 10, 20261 min read
The Transition Window for Australia's Crypto Regulation Is 2025–2026
Crypto Licensing

The Transition Window for Australia's Crypto Regulation Is 2025–2026 🇦🇺

Australia integrates crypto into its financial framework. Discover critical 2026 deadlines for ASIC AFSL compliance, AUSTRAC VASP registration, and Treasury’s new DAP rules.

February 10, 20261 min read
DCE vs. AFSL: Which Australian License Does Your Crypto Exchange Actually Need in 2026?
Crypto Licensing

DCE vs. AFSL: Which Australian License Does Your Crypto Exchange Actually Need in 2026?

In 2026, Australia’s crypto regulation splits clearly between AUSTRAC (DCE/VASP) and ASIC (AFSL) — and choosing the wrong path can block your launch.

January 18, 20263 min read
Shelf Company vs. New Registration: Crypto Entity in 2026
Crypto Licensing

Shelf Company vs. New Registration: Crypto Entity in 2026

In 2026, launch timing is shaped by transition windows, banking onboarding queues, and licensing cut-off dates. This article compares building from scratch vs acquiring a ready-made shelf company - where speed helps, where hidden risks live, and what due diligence must look like before you go live.

January 2, 20264 min read
Crypto licensing in Australia in 2026, including regulatory authorization, AML compliance and permitted digital asset services.
Crypto Licensing

Crypto Licence in Australia: A Strategic Guide for 2026

Australia’s crypto rules are entering a new era on March 31, 2026. This guide breaks down the dual-regulator model (AUSTRAC + ASIC), the two-tier VASP/AFSL path, and what “institution-ready” compliance really requires - from local substance to Travel Rule.

January 2, 20266 min read