Cryptoasset & Digital Asset Licence in United Kingdom
AML registration, rigorous assessment. FCA regulated. Capital from No capital floor. Typical timeline 3 to 12 months.
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Tell us the business, the markets and your timing. Every enquiry is answered the same business day, with a written proposal: the licence, the requirements, the cost and the timeline.
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Why United Kingdom for Your Cryptoasset & Digital Asset Licence?
FCA registration provides credibility in one of the world's most important financial markets and is increasingly required by banking partners.
The UK FCA operates a cryptoasset registration regime focused on anti-money laundering compliance. This is not a full activity-based licence but a registration confirming the firm meets AML/CFT requirements.
Licence requirements
Detailed requirements
No minimum capital requirement, but firms must demonstrate robust AML/KYC frameworks, fit and proper senior management, adequate financial resources, and a viable business model.
Application process
Regulatory Strategy
We assess your business model and regulatory position to develop a clear licensing strategy.
Business Plan
We prepare a comprehensive business plan meeting the regulator's expectations.
Programme of Operations
Detailed programme of operations covering governance, compliance, and operational arrangements.
Compliance Framework
Full AML/CFT framework, compliance monitoring programme, and risk management policies.
Application Submission
We compile and submit the complete application package to the regulator.
Regulator Review
We manage all regulator communications and information requests during the review period.
Authorisation
Upon approval, we support your transition to live operations.
Process detail
Applications can take 3 to 12 months depending on complexity and the quality of the submission. The FCA has rejected a high proportion of crypto registration applications.
United Kingdom vs European Union (MiCA)
| Criteria | United Kingdom | European Union (MiCA) |
|---|---|---|
| Capital | No capital floor | €50k to €150k |
| Timeline | 3 to 12 months | 6 to 12 months |
| Regulator | FCA | National Competent Authorities |
| Key Feature | AML registration, rigorous assessment | EU-wide passporting across all EEA member states |
Related services
Licensing & Authorisation
Full-service licensing advisory from strategy to authorisation.
Compliance Support
Ongoing compliance frameworks tailored to your regulatory obligations.
Financial Crime
AML, KYC and financial crime prevention programmes.
Ready to get started?
Every enquiry is answered the same business day, with a written proposal.
Speak to a licensing expertFrequently asked questions
The capital requirement for a cryptoasset & digital asset licence in United Kingdom is No capital floor. No minimum capital requirement, but firms must demonstrate robust AML/KYC frameworks, fit and proper senior management, adequate financial resources, and a viable business model.
The typical timeline for a cryptoasset & digital asset licence in United Kingdom is 3 to 12 months. Applications can take 3 to 12 months depending on complexity and the quality of the submission. The FCA has rejected a high proportion of crypto registration applications.
FCA registration provides credibility in one of the world's most important financial markets and is increasingly required by banking partners.
After receiving your cryptoasset & digital asset licence in United Kingdom, you must maintain ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements including safeguarding of customer funds, regular regulatory reporting, maintaining adequate capital, updating AML and compliance frameworks, and cooperating with supervisory reviews and inspections.
Most jurisdictions require local substance for a cryptoasset & digital asset licence. In United Kingdom, you will typically need a registered office, at least one locally resident director, and potentially additional operational staff. We can advise on the exact requirements and help you establish the minimum viable local presence.
A cryptoasset & digital asset licence in United Kingdom provides access to the domestic market. AML registration, rigorous assessment. Separate authorisation may be required for other jurisdictions.