MiCA / CASP
EU Regime / Unified License
✓AML/KYC compliance✓Passporting in the EU✓Legal certainty
From application to license: expert assistance with your crypto license.
We oversee the entire licensing process and build the legal architecture, establishing a solid legal foundation that allows your cryptocurrency business to grow safely and expand into international markets.
400+
Crypto licenses obtained
40
Supported jurisdictions
100+
Complex cases incl. MiCA
Updated
Where we license
Crypto licenses in popular jurisdictions
UAE (VARA)
Exchanges and Wallets
✓Regulated by VARA✓Covers exchanges and custodians✓Middle East crypto hub
UAE (ADGM)
Crypto / Regulator: FSRA
✓Innovative environment✓Access to banking✓Simplified legalization
Switzerland
FINMA / Crypto Exchange
✓FINMA oversight✓Investor protection✓Blockchain leader
USA
MSB / Crypto Exchange
✓MSB registration✓Largest market✓Regulatory compliance
United Kingdom
FCA / Crypto Exchange
✓FCA oversight✓Global market access✓High reputation
Singapore
MAS / DPT
✓MAS oversight✓International recognition✓Custody and exchange
Hong Kong
SFC / Crypto Exchange
✓Regulated by SFC✓Support for international business✓Access to Asian markets
Japan
FSA / Crypto Exchange
✓Regulated by FSA✓High client trust✓Security standards
El Salvador
DASP / Government Regulation
✓Bitcoin is official currency✓Simplified registration✓Support for crypto innovation
Kazakhstan
AIFC / Crypto exchange and trading
✓AIFC support✓Reputation in Eurasia✓Growth in Central Asia region
Philippines
DCE / Offshore Zone
✓CEZA-issued license✓ICO and exchange regulations✓International banking
Nigeria
SEC / Exchange and custody
✓SEC oversight✓African market✓Full range of crypto services
Ukraine
Emerging Jurisdiction
✓Access to Eastern Europe✓Transparent regulation✓Fast registration
Saint Lucia
Offshore Registration / Exchange
✓0% taxes✓Broad range of crypto services✓Lenient regulation
Australia
AUSTRAC Registration / AML/CTF
✓Client rights protection✓APAC region✓Clear requirements
Dubai (DMCC)
DMCC / Exchange
✓Global financial infrastructure✓Synergy with DMCC assets✓Regulatory clarity
Armenia
Central Bank of Armenia
✓Fast, low-cost registration✓Support for IT and crypto exchanges✓Flexible requirements
Bahrain
Crypto license / Regulator: CBB
✓Access to banking✓AML/KYC compliance✓Lenient regulation
Cabo Verde
Offshore Registration / Crypto Company
✓No restrictions on crypto business✓Fast registration and licensing✓Confidentiality
Georgia
Simple procedure
✓Favorable taxes for IT✓Transparent regulation✓Straightforward registration
Uzbekistan
NAPP
✓Regulated by NAPP✓Reliable structure✓Hub for CIS and Asia
Turkey
Crypto framework
✓Regulated environment✓Reliable structure✓Hub between Europe and Asia
Israel
Exchanges and Wallets
✓Transparent legal regime✓Investor protection✓Strong fintech environment
Isle of Man
Crypto Exchange
✓Large market✓VASP regulation✓Local and cross-border operations
Malaysia
SC / Exchange and Custody
✓Regulator: Securities Commission✓Clear rules for exchange and custody✓Regional fintech development
Montenegro
Crypto Exchange
✓Simplified processing✓International support✓Friendly environment
Panama
Crypto Exchange / Fintech Projects
✓Lenient regulation✓0% on foreign income✓Flexible structures
Costa Rica
Crypto Exchange / Fintech Startups
✓Budget-friendly license✓Fast registration✓Suitable for crypto gaming
Thailand
SEC DVA / Crypto Exchange
✓SEC supervision✓Legal certainty✓Client protection
Vanuatu
Offshore Crypto Exchange
✓Global operations✓Low entry threshold✓Tax preferences
Gibraltar
DLT / Blockchain Business
✓DLT framework✓Reputable regulator✓Business-friendly environment
Seychelles
Offshore Crypto
✓VA providers✓Exchange and custody✓Offshore structure
Serbia
Crypto Exchange / Custodian
✓New regulation✓Access to EU✓Growth support
Monaco
Token / Crypto Exchange
✓Special legislation✓HNW clients✓Accelerated process
Ecuador
Legal Framework / Crypto Exchange
✓Local regulation✓AML compliance✓Latin American market
Licensing · MiCA / CASP
One license, every EU market.
The single EU crypto license that passports across all 27 member states. We choose the right home regulator, build the application and the AML/CFT & DORA framework - 400+ licenses obtained.
Get advice for my business →Free legal opinion
Not sure which jurisdiction fits?
Our legal team will analyze your case at no cost and provide a written legal opinion: which jurisdiction, structure, or licensing route fits your business.
Written assessment within 2-5 business days
Request a free conclusion →MiCA / CASP
Twenty-seven EU states where we obtain the CASP licence
Under MiCA the regime is one across the Union; what differs is the regulator, the realistic timeline and the language the file is run in. Any of them passports into all 30 EEA states - you pick the one that moves fastest and speaks your language.
EU · MiCA27 states
Europe · non-EU23 states
Middle East9 states
Asia-Pacific29 states
Americas16 states
Caribbean & Atlantic · offshore16 states
What a license covers
Types of services subject to licensing in the crypto business
A single crypto license (for example, Virtual Asset Service Provider) can cover multiple business areas depending on the financial authority. All these operations are regulated in accordance with international AML/KYC requirements and are aimed at ensuring transparency, legality, and financial stability of the business.
These include:
✓Operating a cryptocurrency exchange (centralized or decentralized)✓Conducting transactions on behalf of clients (brokerage) or using proprietary funds (proprietary trading)✓Market-making. In some regulatory frameworks, this requires a separate asset activities license✓Custody of virtual assets or clients' private keys✓Providing virtual wallet and account services
Additionally, the license may include:
✓Fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-crypto exchange✓Payment acceptance and processing, settlement operations✓Management of virtual asset funds (which may require a separate crypto investment license)
In some countries, separate registration, reporting, or special permits are also required for specific types of activities. Such as cryptocurrency delivery, custodial services, or operations involving public trading platforms.
| Type of activity | Regulatory requirements |
|---|---|
| Operating a cryptocurrency exchange | Authorization as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (crypto license) or equivalent |
| Crypto trading for clients | Inclusion of trading activity in the VASP registration or a separate crypto trading license |
| Custody of virtual assets | Additional approval or explicit inclusion within the scope of the license (depends on licensing regime) |
| Wallet and account services | Covered under the virtual asset licensing regime |
| Crypto-to-crypto/fiat trading | Typically included in a cryptocurrency or virtual asset service license |
| Investment or portfolio management | Requires a crypto investment license or separate registration |
The name and scope of a license depend on the legislation of the specific jurisdiction. In the EU, the Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) is used; in Singapore, a Major Payment Institution is required; in the United States, companies must register as a Money Services Business (MSB) and obtain licenses in each individual state.
Comparison of jurisdictions
Where is it more advantageous to obtain a crypto license?
Choosing the right jurisdiction to obtain a crypto license is a key strategic decision for any company working with virtual assets. Each country offers its own regulatory approach, including varying requirements for compliance, reporting, and taxation.
01
Regulatory transparency and stability
Jurisdictions with clear rules and well-established licensing procedures are attractive (e.g., the EU, including Lithuania and Estonia, Singapore, Switzerland, Dubai).
02
Single EU market
Thanks to MiCA, a company with a CASP can provide services across all EU member states.
03
Tax and financial infrastructure
Tax conditions and access to financial infrastructure (such as the ability to open bank accounts) are essential for companies applying for a crypto license.
04
Simplicity and speed
Several jurisdictions, such as Lithuania or the BVI, offer a simplified and fast licensing process, which is particularly relevant for startups and fintech projects.
| Jurisdiction | Regulatory regime | Key advantages | Corporate tax | VAT on exchange | Tax features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU (incl. Lithuania, Estonia) | MiCA (CASP) | Unified EU license, harmonization, cross-border operations | 15-25% | Exempt | Full reporting for all licenses |
| Singapore | Major Payment Institution | Reliability, legal protection, compliance | 17% | Exempt | Crypto fund license recognized |
| Dubai (VARA) | VASP | Innovation, regional leadership | 0% / 9% | Exempt | No personal income tax |
| Switzerland | FINMA/SRO | Clarity, strong financial market, crypto infrastructure | 12-18% | Exempt | Crypto treated as an asset, license required |
| BVI / Cayman Islands | Virtual Asset License | Tax benefits, flexibility, confidentiality | 0% | Exempt | No local taxes |
| USA | MSB + State Licenses | Large market, trust, complex requirements | 21% + state tax | Activity-dependent | Complex IRS rules |
Important: Starting from 2025, all cryptocurrency companies operating in Lithuania, Estonia, and other EU countries will be required to comply with MiCA regulations and obtain a unified CASP license (for digital asset services or dealings) to legally operate within the EU.
Prifinance assists in selecting the optimal jurisdiction based on your product, target markets, and budget. We provide end-to-end support - from choosing the country and company structure to obtaining the license, opening a bank account, and ensuring compliance with local laws.
Before you apply
Legal and organizational requirements for starting a crypto business
In most jurisdictions, there are minimum conditions that must be met before initiating the licensing process for crypto activities, regardless of the license type. All applicants must disclose information about ultimate beneficial owners and undergo a full due diligence review.
01
Company registration - most applicants are required to register a local legal entity.
02
Fit and proper management - appointment of qualified directors and AML/compliance officers is critical.
03
Minimum share capital - many jurisdictions require a minimum capital threshold.
04
AML/KYC compliance - robust Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer measures are mandatory.
05
Internal controls - risk management, compliance, and audit functions are standard obligations.
06
Business plan and documentation - a detailed business plan and supporting documents (IT, finance, risk, etc.) are required.
07
IT and security - adequate cybersecurity and protection of digital assets are prerequisites.
08
Regulatory reporting - ongoing activity and suspicious transaction reporting are part of license obligations.
09
Local office and substance - many countries require a physical office and staff presence.
10
Application fees - fees apply for obtaining and renewing a license annually.
Note: In some jurisdictions, obtaining a cryptocurrency license involves additional registration steps, such as IT security audits or interviews with regulators.
On the ground
Offices from Tallinn to Miami.
Prague
Czech Republic
Vlkova 532/8, Žižkov
Berlin
Germany
Rankestraße 26
Singapore
Singapore
3 Church Street, #29-68 Samsung Hub
Bangkok
Thailand
Unit P01, Penthouse, VASU1, 1 Sukhumvit 25 Alley
Foshan
China
A-Tower, Yuneng Digital Plaza, 46 Lishui Avenue South
Bishkek
Kyrgyzstan
32 Razzakov Street
How it works
Stages and timeline to obtain a crypto license
STEP 01
Jurisdiction and business model analysis
The appropriate jurisdiction and license type (e.g., crypto exchange license or crypto trading license) are determined based on the company's goals and intended activities.
STEP 02
Company registration and license application
The company must be legally registered. If required, preliminary approvals must be obtained in the chosen territory.
STEP 03
Documentation preparation and submission
A full set of documents must be submitted to the regulator, including a business plan, AML/KYC policies, and an IT security policy.
STEP 04
Regulatory review and approval
The regulator reviews the documentation, may request clarifications, and conducts due diligence on all company directors and beneficial owners.
STEP 05
License issuance
Once approved, the company is granted the license. Operations may begin only after the license is officially issued.
Why Prifinance
A law firm, not a reseller.
Prifinance has many years of experience in supporting cryptocurrency licensing projects. We are well aware of the typical challenges clients face and proactively eliminate potential risks.
01
In-house licensing team
100+ lawyers, auditors and consultants work on applications directly - no outsourcing chains.
02
Fixed, itemised fees
The quote you approve is the price you pay; government and regulator fees are stated separately upfront.
03
One team end to end
Company structure, license application, bank account and compliance framework - from a single provider.
04
Regulator-ready documentation
Business plans, AML/KYC and IT security policies drafted to the standards regulators actually check.
05
Support after issuance
Reporting, audits, renewals and license extensions once you are live. We stay on your side.
Our experts in crypto regulation
Professionals who speak both the language of business and that of regulators.
Nikolai Timofejev
Licensing expert
Expert with 15 years of experience in FinTech, payments, and business strategy.
Oleksii Kindratenko
Licensing & AML advisor
Expert in company registration, financial licenses, AML and tax consulting.
Eugeniu Bevziuc
International business consultant
International business consultant with experience in company setup, remote work, and multilingual communication.
Follow Prifinance
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Good to know
Taxation of companies holding a crypto license
Each jurisdiction establishes its own corporate income tax rules for companies operating under a cryptocurrency license. The chosen approach to tax planning can significantly affect both potential profitability and legal compliance.
Corporate income tax
Companies holding a license for a cryptocurrency exchange, crypto trading, or a cryptocurrency investment fund are subject to standard corporate income levy. In EU countries, under MiCA, profits from cryptocurrency trading activities are treated as ordinary business income.
VAT and transaction taxes
In many jurisdictions, exchange operations carried out under a valid digital currency exchange license are exempt from VAT. However, services not related to exchange, such as IT support or consulting, may be subject to VAT.
Withholding tax
Companies may be required to withhold tax at the source when making cross-border payments to providers or foreign investors, depending on the jurisdiction's legislation and applicable double taxation treaties.
Reporting and compliance
Organizations holding a crypto license must report their income, including submitting annual financial statements and maintaining mandatory registers. Failure to comply may result in fines or license restrictions.
Important: Crypto-licensed businesses must regularly consult with tax professionals to stay informed about changes in the global regulatory framework. Reporting obligations can vary significantly depending on the regulatory environment.
Client notes
Google4.7★★★★★
Founders who wanted it done right.
Google4.7★★★★★
“As a software development crew at FewMoreTaps OÜ, we've had the pleasure of working with Prifinance on some key financial moves.First of all, navigating the world of corporate banking and finance can be a maze, but Prifinance made it feel like a walk in the park. They helped us set up a corporate bank account without the hassle of jumping on a plane or drowning in paperwork. Everything was done remotely, smoothly…”
Google
“I had their assistance in company registration and I would recommend them. They were answering all my clarification during the process and offering all their supportThank you Daniel and Irinia”
Google
“We found PRIFINANCE COMPANYvia the Internet and asked for help in organizing the opening of their company in Estonia. PRIFINANCE COMPANY specialists helped us a lot with this. Their professional, competent approach and knowledge of their business left us with only the best impressions.”
Google
“I'm thrilled with my experience with PriFinance! They helped me obtain a crypto license in Estonia without any hassle. The team was super understanding and always available to answer my questions and assist. It was great to see how they put effort into preparing the documents to ensure everything went smoothly. I'm delighted with the outcome and highly recommend PriFinance to anyone looking to get a license…”
Google
“Opening an account with Prifinance in a Swiss bank was such an easy and quick process that I was shocked. It all started with the first call, where I received detailed guidance on the required documents and the entire procedure.One of the key highlights was their attention to detail. As someone who usually gets tangled up in paperwork, I was pleasantly surprised when they sent me all the documents and…”
Google
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Boris.. and I must say, it was a fantastic experience. Boris went above and beyond to assist me with my residency needs. His professionalism, knowledge, and dedication truly stood out. I highly recommend working with Boris and the team!”
Google
FAQ
Crypto licenses and cryptocurrency exchange licenses.
What is a crypto license and why does a company need it?+
A crypto licence is an official authorization to legally provide services such as trading, exchanging, and storing cryptocurrencies. Operating without one is illegal in most jurisdictions and may result in penalties and loss of legal protection.
What types of activities require a crypto exchange license?+
Operations involving virtual asset exchange, crypto fund management, custodial services, and trading require a crypto exchange license, crypto trading license, or other permits, depending on local regulations.
What is the difference between a crypto trading, cryptocurrency, and virtual currency exchange license?+
Crypto trading - covers only trading and brokerage services. Cryptocurrency - includes trading, exchange, and asset custody. Digital currency exchange - may apply only to fiat-to-crypto or cross-border operations.
How to start work on obtaining a crypto license?+
Work on defining the business model, register a company, prepare documents (including AML/KYC and IT security policies), undergo beneficial owner checks, and submit an application. In some countries, a simplified procedure is available for startups.
Is a license crypto the same as a license crypto exchange?+
No. A license crypto is a general authorization for working with virtual assets. A license crypto exchange is specifically for operating a trading platform.
What are the tax and compliance risks?+
Companies must file annual reports, undergo audits, and comply with local levy regulations. In some cases, they must meet additional transparency requirements attached to the cryptocurrency license.
Can a company with one registration operate internationally?+
Generally, such approval is valid only within the jurisdiction where it is issued. However, in some cases, such as under the EU's MiCA framework, passporting allows companies to offer services across the entire European Union with a single license.
What is cryptic asset regulation, and is it required for everyone?+
Cryptic currency licensing refers to specific regulation applied to privacy coins or decentralized projects (DeFi). Not every company is subject to this, but it may apply in jurisdictions with advanced crypto asset regulations.
How long does it take to obtain a license?+
The timeframe depends on the country and applicant readiness, typically from 3 to 12 months. Expedited procedures are available in jurisdictions with innovation-focused frameworks.
Can an existing license be modified or expanded?+
Yes, in many jurisdictions companies can amend or upgrade their existing approval. For example, it's possible to move from a basic license crypto to a full crypto exchange, or additionally obtain a cryptocurrency investment license.
Free consultation
Send your request now and receive our personalized offer!
Get a free legal opinion on your project - our legal team will analyze your case at no cost and provide a written legal opinion: which jurisdiction, structure, or licensing route fits your business.
Written assessment within 2-5 business days