Unlock EU Crypto Markets: Obtain Your CASP License Under the MiCA Regulation
To operate legally and competitively in the evolving European crypto market, digital asset businesses must now meet the strict standards of the markets in crypto-assets (MiCA) regime. For any crypto company wishing to provide crypto-asset services throughout the EU, the CASP license (Crypto-Asset Service Provider license) is the cornerstone for compliant, scalable growth.
Our Swiss-based law firm partners with digital asset venturesโwhether startups or established VASPs โto secure casp licensing and resolve all related compliance, capital, and operational challenges.
Prepared to provide crypto-asset services in Europe? We manage your application from submission through approval, ensuring full regulatory clarity.
What Is a CASP License and Who Needs One?
The CASP license is the official EU authorisation now required for businesses seeking to provide crypto-asset services . Activities covered include the exchange of crypto-assets , custody and administration, operation of trading platforms, and providing crypto-focused advisory services. It is mandated under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) , coming into force in January 2025. Entities that must comply include:
- Crypto-asset service providers such as exchanges, trading platforms, custodians, brokers, and payment providers
- Investment fund managers , portfolio management companies, and fintechs with digital asset activities
- New or existing VASPs looking to achieve passporting rights in the EU
Any company offering crypto asset services in one or more member state will be required to obtain a CASP license , ensuring regulatory compliance and safeguarding clients.
We work with applicants across all EU member states to meet the latest legal framework and transition smoothly.
Benefits of CASP Licensing Under MiCA Regulation
A CASP license offers significant advantages:
- EU passporting rights: Operate with one CASP license and provide crypto-asset services across the EU without duplicating local registrations.
- Unified compliance: The MiCA regulatory framework delivers consistent rules for all crypto asset activities, lowering operational uncertainty.
- Enhance client trust: Meet investor protection , strict AML/KYC , and data protection obligations. Demonstrate reliability.
- Scale EU-wide: Expand crypto companies efficiently, leveraging passporting rights .
- Maximise market reach: Serve both institutional and retail clients while meeting regulatory requirements .
Stay compliantโwith assurance. We help you keep pace with complex regulation and unlock new opportunities.
Who Needs a CASP License? Covered Activities & Providers
Crypto-asset service providers subject to CASP licensing include, but are not limited to:
- Operating trading platforms or conducting exchange of crypto-assets
- Custody and administration of crypto-assets on behalf of clients
- Execution of orders for crypto-assets , transmitting orders , and management on crypto-assets
- Portfolio management and providing advisory services for crypto-assets
- Placement of crypto-assets , including asset-referenced tokens and e-money tokens
- Managing client funds and client s assets
If you offer any crypto-asset services to EU clients, a CASP license is required . For companies uncertain if their offerings require authorisation, we provide thorough reviews of your business model and confirm legal obligations.
Further reading: Types of Crypto Licenses: Exchange, Custody, Broker, Payment & More
Requirements for the MiCA CASP License
To obtain a CASP license , companies need to comply with MiCA requirements as well as domestic laws. Main obligations include:
- Legal entity: Establish a registered office in an EU member state and appoint at least one EU-resident director
- Capital requirements: Maintain minimum share capitalโtypically โฌ50,000 to โฌ150,000โbased on your range of services
- AML/KYC and risk management: Implement full AML KYC and risk management frameworks with robust controls
- Client asset protection: Ensure client assets are kept separately and protected against misuse
- Insurance and business continuity: Secure relevant insurance and document your business continuity plans
- Ongoing record keeping : Maintain records on all crypto-asset services for at least five years for regulatory inspection
The license application must clearly show a fit and proper management team, strong internal policies , and technical readiness for compliance.
More details: Crypto License Requirements: What You Need to Apply
The CASP Licensing Process : Step by Step
While specifics may differ by EU member , the standard procedure includes:
- Preparation:
- Analyse applicable MiCA requirements for your target activities ( exchange, custody, portfolio management , etc.)
- Assess operational procedures for regulatory compliance
- Gather required documents : business plan , director details, IT and risk management policies, financial statements
- Jurisdiction selection:
- Select an EU country that best fits your needs and regulatory requirements
- Application submission:
- Apply to the competent authority , including information on crypto-asset service providers , AML/KYC measures, business continuity strategies, and IT security
- Regulatory review:
- The competent authority examines your fit and proper status and compliance with technical standards
- License grant:
- If approved, receive CASP authorisation ( is complete ), and commence crypto asset services across the EU
- Ongoing compliance:
- Maintain robust AML KYC systems, record keeping , and regular business continuity checks
Download guidance: Crypto License Application Template & Checklist
Essential Documentation and Compliance
Every license application must include:
- Incorporation documents and registered office evidence
- A detailed business plan and operations summary
- Robust AML/KYC , data protection , and internal control protocols
- Risk management and IT security documentation
- Background checks for directors and shareholders ( fit and proper assessments)
- Financial statements , proof of capital, insurance , and business continuity plans
Any files that are incomplete or not compliant are subject to delays or rejection. With our expert support, you make sure your application meets all standards.
See also: AML Red Flags in Cryptocurrency: Detection Guide | Crypto Travel Rule: VASP Compliance Requirements
Timelines, Costs, and Expectations
- Review timeframe: Usually 3โ6 months, subject to member state requirements and file completeness
- Share capital: Based on class of services , typically โฌ50,000 to โฌ150,000
- Ongoing expenses: Compliance, regulatory reporting, audits, insurance . For detailed breakdowns: Crypto License Cost: Pricing by Country & License Type [2026]
- Transitional phase: Existing VASPs may operate under local rules until December 2025 or, in some member states , July 2026. Afterward, every crypto-asset service provider will need a CASP license to continue.
Need a concise comparison? See Crypto License Comparison: Country-by-Country Matrix
From Application to Active License: Our Support
Our law firm offers:
- End-to-end CASP license project coordinationโSwitzerland and all EU jurisdictions
- Detailed gap analysis, internal control and documentation support
- Direct communication with competent authorities and ongoing regulatory compliance guidance
- Bank account introductions and continuous support for crypto-asset service providers
- Long-term advice on tax, corporate, and business strategy
We reduce compliance risks. We streamline your licensing. We help your business move forward.
Why Work With Us for CASP Licensing ?
- Comprehensive services: Corporate, tax, regulatory, and IP expertise for digital businesses
- In-depth understanding of regulatory requirements in Switzerland and the EU
- Proven track record with startups and established regulated firms
- Clear fee structures, precise documentation, and local representation
From defining your crypto asset service model to achieving approval, we guide you each step of the way.
Start Your CASP License Project Today
Ready to secure your CASP license and access the EUโs digital asset market?
Contact us or book a confidential consultation. We analyse your project, lay out the critical steps, and stand by you until authorisation is achieved.
Move forward with clarity. Stay compliant in a transforming market.
Frequently asked questions about CASP License: How to Get Licensed Under MiCA
What is a CASP license under MiCA?
A CASP license is an official EU authorization required for businesses that provide crypto-asset services in the EU, ensuring they meet regulatory standards set by MiCA.
Who is required to obtain a CASP license?
Any company or provider offering crypto-asset servicesโlike exchanges, custodians, brokers, and payment providersโto EU clients must obtain a CASP license.
What are the main benefits of holding a CASP license?
CASP license holders gain EU passporting rights, unified compliance, increased client trust, and the ability to scale their crypto business across all EU member states.
Which crypto-asset activities require CASP licensing?
Activities such as operating trading platforms, crypto-asset exchange, custody, portfolio management, advisory services, and managing client assets all require a CASP license.
What are the basic requirements to apply for a CASP license?
Applicants must set up an EU-based legal entity, appoint at least one EU-resident director, meet minimum share capital requirements, and implement robust compliance and risk management systems.
How long does it take to get a CASP license approved?
The review process typically takes 3โ6 months, depending on the member state and completeness of the application documents.
What minimum share capital is needed for a CASP license?
The required share capital usually ranges from โฌ50,000 to โฌ150,000, depending on the services provided.
Can a CASP license be used to operate in all EU countries?
Yes, one CASP license grants passporting rights to provide crypto-asset services across all EU member states.
What documentation is essential for a CASP license application?
Key documents include the company's incorporation papers, a business plan, AML/KYC policies, IT security details, management background checks, financial statements, proof of capital, and business continuity plans.
What compliance measures are necessary under MiCA for CASPs?
CASPs must implement AML/KYC frameworks, protect client assets, maintain strong internal controls, and ensure proper data and risk management.
What happens during the transitional phase for existing VASPs in the EU?
Current VASPs may operate under local rules until December 2025 (or July 2026 in some countries); after that, a CASP license is mandatory.
Can you provide portfolio management and advisory services with a CASP license?
Yes, these activities are covered, but you must meet all relevant MiCA and local regulatory requirements.
What are the ongoing obligations after obtaining a CASP license?
Ongoing duties include regular compliance checks, record keeping for at least five years, AML/KYC updates, and business continuity reviews.
How should companies select the best EU jurisdiction for CASP licensing?
Evaluate each countryโs regulatory requirements, compliance expectations, application timelines, and operational fit before applying.
Why work with a law firm for CASP licensing?
Experienced firms help ensure your application is complete, compliant, and tailored to your business, reducing delays and regulatory risks.
Can foreign investors or non-EU firms obtain a CASP license?
Yes, but they must establish a registered office and meet other local requirements inside an EU member state.
What are typical ongoing costs after obtaining a CASP license?
Expect costs for compliance, regulatory reporting, audits, insurance, and possibly additional capital requirements based on service offerings.
