Coinify logo v3
Decimated logo
Occam logo
Binance
Lbank
Centaurify
Multiversx
Binance
Coinify logo v3
Decimated logo
Lbank
Centaurify
Multiversx
Binance
Occam logo
credit_info
We are proud to have received the 'Strongest in Estonia' award for multiple ( 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 ) consecutive years. This prestigious title is bestowed upon the most successful companies in Estonia, recognizing their commitment to maintaining a culture of integrity and excellence in business practices.

500+

crypto licenses acquired

200+

companies registered

20+

client country locations
Audio Summary: Estonian Cryptocurrency Exchange License
Volume

Estonian Crypto License: A Complete Guide for 2024

Estonia has earned a reputation as a leader in the crypto industry, providing one of the most favorable regulatory environments for cryptocurrency businesses. As one of the first countries in the EU to regulate cryptocurrency companies, Estonia’s progressive laws have made it an attractive hub for digital currency activities. If you’re looking to obtain an Estonia crypto license, this guide will walk you through the process, benefits, and requirements of acquiring a crypto license in Estonia, highlighting why this country is a top choice for blockchain and crypto companies.

consultant_circle_img

Looking for a crypto license in Estonia? Our team offers a free consultation and quick responses to help you navigate options in Estonia and other jurisdictions. Contact us today to start your journey!

Get a free consultation

Benefits of Obtaining a Crypto License in Estonia

Estonia is often referred to as a “cryptocurrency haven,” and for good reason. Here are the key benefits of obtaining a crypto license in Estonia:

  • Progressive Regulatory Environment: Estonia is one of the first EU countries to create clear and friendly legislation for crypto businesses, ensuring legitimacy and regulatory clarity.
  • Low Tax Burden: Estonia offers an attractive tax system with 0% corporate tax on reinvested profits and no annual license fee.
  • Digital-Friendly Ecosystem: Known for its digital-first governance, Estonia’s ecosystem is well-suited for tech and crypto startups.
  • Recognition and Trust: A crypto license from Estonia builds trust, as the country has strict anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) policies, making it a credible jurisdiction for crypto activities.
  • Short Licensing Process: Compared to other countries, the licensing process is relatively fast, taking approximately 3 to 6 months.
  • An Estonian crypto license provides a gateway to operate throughout the European Economic Area (EEA).

Types of Crypto Licenses Available in Estonia

Estonia offers a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license, which is a combined license for various crypto activities, including:

  • Crypto Exchange: Allows the company to exchange digital currencies for fiat or other cryptocurrencies.
  • Crypto Wallet and Custodial Services: Provides services for maintaining cryptocurrency wallets, both hot and cold, and creating and storing encrypted client keys.
  • Payment and Transfer Services: Provides crypto payment processing and digital currency transfer services.

Requirements for a Crypto License in Estonia

To apply for an Estonia crypto license, companies must meet several requirements:

  • Minimum Share Capital: The company must have a minimum share capital of 100,000 to 250,000 euros, depending on the type of services offered.
  • Physical Presence: A physical office in Estonia is required, along with at least one resident board member to manage operations.
  • Local Staff: The company must have a local AML Officer, along with qualified and experienced board members.
  • Compliance Policies: The company must follow AML and CTF procedures and have internal controls in place to ensure compliance.
  • Corporate Account: A corporate account must be opened in an Estonian or European financial institution, with an IBAN for financial operations.
  • Good Standing: Shareholders, directors, and key employees must provide proof of no criminal record.

Steps to Obtain a Crypto License In Estonia

steps_image_crypto

Steps to Obtain a Crypto License in Estonia

Talk with our founder Mardo Soo
Get a free consultation
steps_image_crypto

Steps to Obtain a Crypto License in Estonia

Talk with our founder Mardo Soo
Get a free consultation

Step 1

Company Registration

Begin your journey towards a fully operational crypto business in Estonia with this foundational step.

  • Timeline: Approximately 2-3 weeks.
  • Action: Register the company in Estonia and assign a local director.
  • Result: The company is officially registered, a corporate account is opened, and share capital is transferred.
Read more expand

Step 2

Pre-Licensing Preparation

Setting the foundation for compliance and operational success.

  • Timeline: 2-3 weeks.
  • Action: Prepare all necessary documents, including AML/KYC policies, business plans, financial forecasts, and compliance documentation.
  • Result: The company meets the requirements to apply for a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license.
Read more expand

Step 3

Licensing Application

The final step in the process ensures your company meets the standards for VASP licensing.

  • Timeline: Up to 5 months.
  • Action: Submit the license application to the Estonian Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), known as Rahapesu Andmebüroo (RAB).
  • Result: The company receives the VASP license and is authorized to conduct crypto business.
Read more expand
consultant_circle_img

Need a crypto license in Estonia? We offer free consultations and help with other jurisdictions. Contact us today!

Get a free consultation

Taxation for Crypto Companies

Estonia’s tax system is one of the most attractive aspects for crypto companies:

  • Corporate Tax: 0% tax on reinvested profits, making it ideal for growing crypto businesses.
  • Tax on Withdrawn Profits: A 20% corporate income tax is applied to distributed profits.
  • Territorial Taxation: Income sourced outside Estonia is exempt from Estonian taxes, providing significant tax benefits for international crypto companies.

Regulatory Authorities and Compliance

The National Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is the main regulatory body overseeing cryptocurrency licenses in Estonia. Companies must adhere to strict AML and CTF regulations and are subject to regular audits and inspections.

In 2025, Estonia will fully implement the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which aims to standardize and strengthen crypto regulations across the EU. Companies holding a VASP license will need to adapt to these new requirements to maintain compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Estonia cryptocurrency license is officially known as the Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license, allowing companies to offer services like crypto exchange, wallet custodial services, and payment solutions.

The process takes approximately 3 to 6 months, depending on the completeness of the application and the response from regulators

The state application fee is 10,000 euros, with additional costs for share capital (minimum of 100,000 euros) and other setup fees.

Yes, non-residents can apply for a crypto license, but the company must have at least one board member residing in Estonia.

Crypto companies in Estonia must comply with AML and CTF regulations, have a local AML Officer, and undergo regular audits by the FIU.

Yes, having a physical office in Estonia is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a crypto license.

Conclusion

Estonia remains one of the most attractive jurisdictions for cryptocurrency businesses due to its progressive regulations, favorable tax policies, and digital-friendly ecosystem. The Estonia crypto license offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to operate in a legitimate, regulated environment with easy access to the broader European market. By meeting the requirements and completing the necessary steps, companies can take advantage of Estonia’s robust framework to grow and thrive in the blockchain industry.

If you’re interested in establishing your crypto business in Estonia, contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in obtaining your Estonian crypto license.

Crypto license
Offshore company formation
Offshore bank account
Company
Services
OFFICE LOCATION
location

Array

location

Array

© 2024 CONSULTING24. All Rights Reserved.

  • apple-pay
  • paypal
  • varified-visa
  • visa
  • mastercard
  • stripe
  • G-pay