Register your business with digital first-solutions and industry expertise
Formation of hong kong company
Panama corporate registry
Register company in cayman islands
Company incorporation singapore
Seychelles company registration
Enter the global financial powerhouse with a crypto license in the UK. Comply with FCA regulations to gain credibility and trust in the European market.
Crypto exchange/wallet license
Low-tax company registration
Bank accounts for crypto businesses
Comprehensive Crypto Advisory
Get in touch today. No obligations. 20-minute free consultation.
Lena was very helpful in establishing our company in Estonia and providing anxilliary services. I recommend her for your business needs in Estonia.
Founder at SwanFinance
The United Kingdom is one of the most attractive jurisdictions for digital business, especially for those looking to enter the burgeoning cryptocurrency industry. Whether you are a startup, established exchange, or fintech innovator, the UK provides a favorable environment for crypto companies to thrive. While the process might not involve a traditional license, registration with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is key to operating legally. Let’s explore how to obtain a UK crypto license and why the UK remains a leader in the crypto asset space.
Lorem impsum Lorem impsum Lorem impsum
The UK does not offer a traditional “crypto license” but requires companies conducting crypto activities to register with the FCA. Depending on the type of activity, different registration requirements apply:
Exchange-Traded Tokens: Common cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether fall into this category. They are not backed by any central authority and are used primarily as mediums of exchange.
Security Tokens: Tokens that represent ownership or a stake in a business, classified as “specified investments” under UK financial law.
Utility Tokens: Tokens that provide access to a specific product or service, akin to vouchers.
Electronic Money Tokens: These meet the criteria outlined in the Electronic Money Regulations and are primarily used as digital cash equivalents.
To register a cryptocurrency business with the FCA, several requirements must be fulfilled:
Steps to Obtain a Crypto License In UK
Company Registration: Register your company with Companies House
Prepare Documentation: Create a comprehensive business plan, a risk management policy, and other supporting documents that outline your AML/CFT policies.
Submit an Application to the FCA: Complete the registration form and submit it along with the required fee (£2,000 for companies with revenues under £250,000; £10,000 for larger companies).
Compliance Review: The FCA will appoint a supervisor to review your application, ensuring your company meets all threshold conditions.
Receive Approval: Upon successful review, the FCA will grant authorization to operate.
The UK takes a proactive stance in taxing cryptocurrency-related activities:
The FCA is the primary regulatory body overseeing crypto activities in the UK. The FCA’s focus is on maintaining market integrity, consumer protection, and mitigating financial crime risks. Companies are expected to comply with regulations such as the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing, and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017, which outline AML/CFT obligations.
Yes, the FCA oversees the regulation of cryptocurrency transactions in the UK. The focus is on consumer protection, market integrity, and preventing illicit financial activities.
The FCA registration fee is £2,000 for companies with annual revenues under £250,000 and £10,000 for larger companies. Additional ongoing compliance costs may apply.
The authorization provided by the FCA is technically not a traditional license with an expiration date but rather a permit. Companies must maintain ongoing compliance to retain authorization.
Strict adherence to AML/CFT guidelines, extensive documentation, and regulatory scrutiny are some of the challenges faced during the licensing process. Additionally, the time required for FCA approval can be a hurdle for businesses eager to start operations.
Obtaining a crypto license in the UK is an excellent way to establish credibility and gain a foothold in one of the world’s most sophisticated financial markets. The process is transparent but requires strict adherence to compliance requirements. By registering with the FCA, crypto companies can benefit from a structured regulatory environment, tax advantages, and access to an ecosystem rich in innovation and opportunity. If you’re ready to take the next step in the crypto landscape, the UK offers a stable and supportive foundation to build upon.
Or contact us via whatsapp, Telegram or mail