Payment & Fintech Licensing
Electronic money, payment institution, and fintech licensing insights across the EU, Canada and beyond — EMI Malta, SPI Poland, Canadian PSP registration, RPAA reporting, and the rules shaping regulated payments.
19 articles in this category
MSO License in Hong Kong: Requirements, Fees and Application Process
An MSO license from Hong Kong Customs and Excise covers money changing and remittance. Who needs one, the government fees, requirements and timelines in 2026.
Payment Licensing Guide: What a Payment License Is and Which One You Need
This payment licensing guide explains how PI, EMI, MSB, MSO and other regimes differ based on client funds, payment activities and target markets.
SRO License in Switzerland: Requirements, Costs and Process for Crypto Businesses
Swiss SRO membership places financial intermediaries under AML supervision. This guide covers the requirements, fees, process and limits for crypto businesses in 2026.
EMI License in Malta: Requirements, Costs and MFSA Application in 2026
A Malta EMI license is an authorization issued by the Malta Financial Services Authority under the Financial Institutions Act (Cap. 376) that allows the holder to issue electronic money, operate payment accounts and provide payment services across the European Economic Area.
Mauritius PIS License: Requirements, Capital and Application Process
The Mauritius PIS License provides a regulated framework for companies handling cross-border payments across Africa and other international markets. It supports payment processing, merchant acquiring, and fintech operations within a compliant and globally recognized financial environment.
Montana MSB License: Requirements, Costs and FinCEN Registration
Montana can be a strategic U.S. structuring option for international MSBs, offering a lighter state-level licensing environment for fintech, payments, FX, remittance, and crypto businesses focused on non-U.S. markets.
MSB License in the USA: FinCEN Registration, State Licensing, and Compliance Requirements
US MSB registration is only the first step. What payment businesses need to know about FinCEN, state licenses, costs and compliance.
PSD3: What Happens to EMI and Payment Institution Licenses in the EU
The EU's PSD3 reform will fundamentally reshape payment licensing by integrating EMI licenses into the Payment Institution regime. Learn how the transition works, key compliance deadlines, and what existing and new applicants should prepare for.
Best Countries to Get a Payment License in 2026
Compare the best countries for obtaining a payment licence in 2026, including costs, timelines and regulatory requirements.
MSB License Cost in 2026: Full Breakdown for the US and Canada
Compare MSB registration in Canada and the US, including costs, licensing requirements, timelines, and the best option for your market entry.
Québec MSB Licence: Requirements, Registry and Renewal
Money services businesses operating in Québec may need a provincial MSB licence from Revenu Québec in addition to FINTRAC registration, with ongoing renewal, reporting, and compliance duties.
Malta Payment Institution License: Capital and Scope
Malta Payment Institution licensing under the MFSA covers three capital tiers, a defined scope of payment services, and EU passporting. This guide explains the requirements, permitted activities, and how PSD3 will reshape the PI framework.
Small Payment Institution Poland: 8 Essential Facts and Requirements Explained
Key facts about Small Payment Institution licensing in Poland, including requirements and limits.
Small Payment Institution Poland: Complete Guide to SPI Licensing
Overview of Small Payment Institution Poland, including licensing requirements, transaction limits, and how to register an SPI.
Bank of Canada PSP Reporting Requirements Under the Retail Payment Activities Act
Key insights into Bank of Canada PSP reporting requirements, deadlines, and RPAA compliance obligations.
RPAA Annual Reporting: Requirements, Compliance, and PSP Guide
RPAA annual reporting is essential for Payment Service Providers in Canada to ensure compliance, transparency, and consumer protection.
MSB vs PSP Registration in Canada: Costs & Guide
FINTRAC's MSB registration carries no governmental fees at the federal level, but Quebec adds its own licence with published fees, and the Bank of Canada's RPAA regime carries a real application fee plus a still-unfinalized annual charge.
Ripple Aims to Support Australian Payments by Targeting AFSL
The acquisition of BC Payments Australia by blockchain giant Ripple will combine traditional rails with digital asset infrastructure.
