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Global Regulation Overview
As crypto markets expand, regulation becomes essential. A cryptocurrency license ensures transparency, client protection, and compliance with AML/CTF standards. Only licensed companies can legally provide exchange, trading, and custody services, gaining institutional trust and market access.
Licensing and Compliance
Regulators worldwide require crypto firms to follow strict KYC, reporting, and tax standards. A valid license defines permitted activities — exchange operation, trading, custody, and payment processing — and ensures financial transparency and market stability.
Key Licensed Activities
A single crypto license (such as a Virtual Asset Service Provider license) may cover several services, including:
- Exchange operation (CEX/DEX)
- Brokerage and proprietary trading
- Custody of client assets or keys
- Wallet, settlement, and payment services
These activities are regulated under international AML/KYC laws to prevent misuse and maintain trust.
Leading Jurisdictions
Top destinations for crypto licensing include the EU (MiCA), Singapore, Dubai, Switzerland, the USA, and Hong Kong.
- EU (MiCA) – unified CASP license, EU-wide access, 15–25% tax.
- Singapore – MAS regulation, strong legal protection, 17% tax.
- Dubai (VARA) – 0–9% tax, innovation-friendly framework.
- Switzerland (FINMA) – blockchain hub, 12–18% tax.
- USA (MSB) – federal + state licensing, strict compliance.
Jurisdiction choice depends on corporate tax, licensing speed, and access to banking and investors. From 2025, all EU crypto companies must hold a CASP license under MiCA.
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Legal and Organizational Requirements
To apply for a crypto license, companies must have:
- Local incorporation and office presence
- Qualified directors and AML officers
- Minimum capital and internal audit systems
- AML/KYC and cybersecurity policies
- Transparent ownership and reporting procedures
Proper preparation and documentation minimize delays and increase approval chances.
Licensing Process
Typical stages include jurisdiction selection, company registration, document preparation, regulatory review, and license issuance.
Average timeframe:
- EU / Singapore / Dubai – 3–6 months
- Switzerland – up to 8 months
- Offshore (BVI, Cayman) – 2–4 months
- USA – 6–12 months
Early legal planning reduces risks and accelerates approval.
Taxation and Reporting
Licensed crypto companies are subject to standard corporate income taxes (0–25% depending on jurisdiction). Most crypto exchange operations are VAT-exempt. Annual reports, audits, and compliance reviews are mandatory to maintain licensing status.
Why Work with Prifinance
Prifinance is an international consulting firm with over 30 years of experience in corporate law and licensing. Our 100+ experts have delivered 400+ crypto licenses across 40 jurisdictions, completing 10,000+ projects worldwide.
We provide full-cycle support — from jurisdiction analysis and company formation to document preparation, compliance, and regulator approval. Partnering with Prifinance ensures a legally sound foundation for your crypto business and access to global markets.
Start your licensing journey on our website — your trusted partner in crypto regulation and business growth.