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With a global presence spanning 20+ countries and a client portfolio that includes industry leaders like Binance, growth-stage companies, and innovative startups, we specialize in delivering expert guidance on crypto licensing in Poland and other critical jurisdictions. Reach out today for a free consultation and take the first step toward achieving compliance and unlocking sustainable growth!

Introduction

Poland has emerged as a strategic hub for cryptocurrency businesses within the European Union (EU), blending regulatory clarity with access to a tech-savvy market. Since 2021, virtual asset services have been formally regulated, requiring companies to register with the Register of Virtual Currencies under the Tax Administration Chamber. While Bitcoin isn’t recognized as legal tender, Poland’s alignment with EU directives, such as MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets), ensures a compliant environment for crypto exchanges, wallets, and brokers. This guide explores how to secure a crypto license in Poland, leveraging its cost-efficient processes, favorable taxation, and EU market access.

Benefits of Obtaining a Crypto License in Poland

  • EU Market Access: Operate across 27 EU countries under a single registration.
  • Regulatory Clarity: Transparent compliance with AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism) frameworks.
  • Tax Advantages: Benefit from double taxation treaties (DTA) with 80+ countries and competitive corporate tax rates (9-19% CIT).
  • Cost Efficiency: Lower operational costs compared to Germany or Luxembourg.
  • Tech Infrastructure: Thriving blockchain ecosystem supported by institutions like the Blockchain and New Technology Chamber of Commerce.

Types of Crypto Licenses Available in Poland

1. Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) Registration

  • Crypto-to-fiat exchanges (e.g., Bitcoin to PLN/EUR).
  • Crypto-to-crypto trading platforms.
  • Custodial wallet services.
  • Brokerage and intermediation.

2. Additional EU Licenses

  • Payment Institution License for expanded services.
  • (e.g., Payment Institution License for expanded services).

Requirements for a Crypto License in Poland

  • Legal Entity: Establish a Polish company (SP z o.o. or SA) with a physical office (no virtual addresses).
  • Minimum Capital: Deposit 5,000 PLN (~€1,100) in a Polish bank account.
  • AML/KYC Compliance: Implement robust procedures for customer due diligence and transaction monitoring.
  • Local Staff: Hire a director or AML officer with financial expertise.
  • Business Plan: Submit a detailed operational blueprint, including software and risk management strategies.

Steps to Obtain a Crypto License in Poland

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Essential Steps for Setting Up For Poland crypto license

Talk with our founder Mardo Soo
steps_image_crypto

Essential Steps for Setting Up For Poland crypto license

Talk with our founder Mardo Soo

Company Formation (2–4 weeks)

  • Choose a Legal Structure: Establish a Polish company, typically as a Spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością (SP z o.o.) or Spółka Akcyjna (SA).
  • Secure a Legal Address: Lease a physical office space (virtual addresses are not accepted).
  • Open a Corporate Bank Account: Deposit the minimum authorized capital of 5,000 PLN (~€1,100) in a Polish bank.
  • Register with the National Court Register (KRS): Submit incorporation documents, including the Articles of Association and shareholder details..

Obtain a PESEL Tax Number

  • ePUAP Platform: Apply for a PESEL tax number via Poland’s digital government portal.
  • Document Requirements: Provide certified copies of passports (translated into Polish if necessary) for directors and shareholders.
  • Processing Time: Up to 30 days.
  • Register with the Tax Administration Chamber: File the application for inclusion in the Register of Virtual Currencies in Katowice.
  • Required Documents:
    • Company registration certificate.
    • AML/KYC policies.
    • Proof of minimum capital deposit.
    • Business plan and technical compliance reports.
  • Processing Time: 14 days (may extend if additional documentation is requested).

Post-Registration Obligations

  • Enroll in Social Insurance (ZUS): Register employees and directors with the Polish social insurance system.
  • Annual Reporting: Submit financial statements and compliance reports to the National Court Register (KRS) and tax authorities.
  • Ongoing AML Compliance: Maintain transaction records, conduct regular risk assessments, and report suspicious activities to the General Inspector of Financial Information (GIFI).
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Looking for a crypto license in Poland? Our team offers a free consultation and quick responses to help you navigate options in Poland and other jurisdictions. Contact us today to start your journey!

Taxation for Crypto Companies

  • Corporate Income Tax (CIT): 9% for revenue up to €2M, 19% above.
  • VAT: Exempt for crypto-to-crypto/fiat transactions under EU VAT Directive 2022/542.
  • Capital Gains: Taxed at 19% for corporate profits.
  • Double Taxation Avoidance: Leverage Poland’s DTA network to optimize liabilities.

Regulatory Authorities and Compliance

  • Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF): Ensures regulatory compliance
  • Ministry of Finance: EManages the Virtual Currencies Register
  • Tax Administration Chamber: Handles licensing & taxation
  • Blockchain & Fintech Chamber: Supports crypto entrepreneurs

A crypto license in Poland refers to the registration of a company as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) with the Register of Virtual Currencies. It is mandatory for businesses offering crypto-related services, such as exchanges, wallets, or brokerage, to operate legally and comply with Polish and EU regulations.

Yes, non-residents can fully own and manage a crypto company in Poland. However, the company must have a physical office in Poland and comply with local regulatory requirements, including AML/KYC procedures.

A: The following activities require registration:

  • Exchanging virtual currencies for fiat money (e.g., Bitcoin to PLN/EUR).
  • Exchanging one virtual currency for another (e.g., Bitcoin to Ethereum).
  • Providing custodial wallet services.
  • Intermediating in crypto transactions (brokerage services).

The process typically takes 6–8 weeks, depending on document preparation and regulatory review. The Tax Administration Chamber usually issues a decision within 14 days of application submission.

The minimum authorized capital required is 5,000 PLN (~€1,100), which must be deposited into a Polish bank account before submitting the application.

No, the authorized capital must be deposited in fiat currency (PLN or EUR) into a Polish bank account.

Yes, a physical office in Poland is mandatory. Virtual or nominal addresses are not accepted for registration.

Crypto companies must implement robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, including:

  • Customer identification and verification.
  • Transaction monitoring and reporting for amounts exceeding €1,000.
  • Maintaining internal registers of suspicious activities.

While crypto companies are not directly supervised by financial authorities, they may be audited for compliance with AML/CFT regulations and tax obligations.

A: Crypto companies are subject to:

  • Corporate Income Tax (CIT): 9% for revenue up to €2M, 19% above.
  • VAT: Exempt for crypto-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat transactions under EU VAT Directive 2022/542.
  • Capital Gains Tax: 19% on profits from crypto trading.

Yes, a non-resident can serve as the director. However, the company must hold an annual board meeting in Poland.

Operating without proper registration can result in fines, business suspension, or criminal charges for non-compliance with AML/CFT laws.

Poland’s crypto regulations align with the EU’s Fifth Anti-Money Laundering Directive (5AMLD) and the upcoming Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, ensuring compliance with EU-wide standards.

Yes, you can acquire an existing crypto company with a valid license. However, thorough due diligence is essential to ensure compliance and avoid hidden liabilitie

Starting in 2025, new regulations include:

  • Cash transaction limits: PLN 20,000 for B2C transactions and PLN 8,000 for B2B transactions.
  • Dual revenue recognition: Transactions exceeding cash limits must be reported twice for tax purposes.
  • Enhanced AML/CFT measures for transactions above €1,000.

Crypto startups can access:

  • EU grants and local subsidies for business development.
  • Support from the Blockchain and New Technology Chamber of Commerce.
  • Advisory services from the Innovative Hub for Fintech and blockchain innovations.

No, a Polish bank account is mandatory for depositing authorized capital and conducting business operations.

Key documents include:

  • Company incorporation papers (Articles of Association, registration certificate).
  • AML/KYC policies and internal control procedures.
  • Business plan and financial forecasts.
  • Proof of minimum capital deposit.
  • Director and shareholder identification documents.

Yes, Poland offers:

  • Lower licensing and operational costs compared to Germany or Luxembourg.
  • Access to the EU single market.
  • A progressive regulatory environment and tech-savvy population.

Registered companies must:

  • Submit annual financial statements.
  • Maintain AML/KYC records.
  • Report suspicious transactions to the authorities.
  • Renew their registration annually with the Tax Administration Chamber.

Yes, a single VASP registration covers multiple crypto-related activities, including exchanges, wallets, and brokerage services.

Partner with legal and compliance experts to:

  • Draft AML/KYC policies.
  • Prepare application documents.
  • Conduct regular audits and staff training.