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Why Choose Lithuania for a Crypto License
EU Access and Regulatory Clarity
The success of Lithuania as a jurisdiction where you can get a crypto license is well-known. This is mostly because of its straightforward and beneficial regulatory structure, which can differ across Europe. Lithuania's active implementation of MiCA — a measure aimed at harmonizing the regulation of crypto assets in the European Union — confirms this. This means that Lithuania's licensing procedure will comply with all EU standards once they take effect.
Fast and Cost-Effective Setup
The cornerstones of the crypto license application process in Lithuania are speed and simplicity. Each stage is clear and straightforward, making the entire procedure efficient and time-saving. The application and review process takes between two and four months, which is a definite advantage for Lithuania compared to the general timeframe for obtaining a crypto license in Europe.Fees, capital investments, and related costs are also reasonable and affordable.
Crypto-Friendly Tax Environment
Lithuania's tax regime offers favorable conditions for those involved in cryptocurrency. The regulations in this area are clear and easy to understand. Rather than blocking those seeking a friendly jurisdiction in which to obtain a license, the regulations encourage it. The standard corporate tax rate is low and subject to further reduction. Additionally, there are no separate taxes on cryptocurrency transactions, which ensures a favorable tax environment.
Types of Crypto Licenses in Lithuania
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Cryptocurrency Exchange License
This type of license is granted to companies that provide exchange services. These services include exchanging the virtual currency for fiat money or another virtual asset. In Lithuania, the crypto exchange license covers all similar transactions, including operating exchange platforms and digital trading.
Requirements for a Crypto License in Lithuania
Share Capital and Corporate Form
Sufficient capital is one of the main requirements for obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania. Previously, the minimum capital contribution was €125,000. Now, if you register a business under MiCA regulations, you must have a minimum share capital ranging from €50,000 to €150,000, depending on the business model and risk profile. There are three classes of CASPs, depending on the activity, potential risks, and the mechanism for carrying out the activity.
AML Officer and KYC Compliance
If you are determined to register a crypto license in Lithuania, then you must consider some legal aspects. In order to obtain and use the desired license, you must meet certain anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements. These requirements are necessary in today's world and aim to prevent illegal and fraudulent activities in the cryptocurrency sector. To meet these requirements and avoid issues with your license, you should appoint an AML officer who will oversee all matters related to these policies and monitor compliance.
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How to Apply for a VASP License
First, you'll need to prepare the necessary documents and create a business plan for your future company. This is necessary to comply with regulatory authorization requirements.
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The second step is to register the company that will operate as a broker in accordance with the future cryptocurrency license. At this stage, you need to choose a company name and apply to the relevant registration authority. Then, you must submit the appropriate forms and provide the necessary documentation.
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After registering, prepare the documents required to qualify for a CASP license in Lithuania. Choose a regulatory class under MiCA, based on the scope and complexity of services.
Appoint an AML Compliance Officer and ensure the corporation complies with Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF), and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies.
Open a corporate bank account for the company. This is a mandatory requirement in Lithuania, so make sure you have a bank account when deciding to apply for a crypto license.
Submit the relevant license application and documents to a Lithuanian bank. Demonstrate compliance with Lithuanian and European regulations, including AML and KYC procedures.
Step-by-Step Licensing Process
While getting a crypto license in Lithuania is not complicated, there are mandatory steps that you must follow to ensure a smooth outcome. These steps include legal, technical, and organizational requirements.
Timeline and Documentation
The process can take months, depending on the situation. For example, applying for a CASP license in Lithuania can take 2-4 months, while registering the company and preparing documents can take several weeks. Finding and appointing an AML officer should be addressed separately.
Main documents needed to obtain a CASP license in Lithuania include a relevant application form and a comprehensive list of internal policies, particularly related to transaction control and suspicious behavior. These AML, KYC, and CFT policies must comply with MiCA and be approved by a Lithuanian bank.
FCIS Supervision and Compliance
Adequate compliance with Lithuanian legislation must be ensured at each stage of registration and for all crypto licensing services, particularly through supervision by the Financial Crime Investigation Service. The Financial Crime Investigation Service is a law enforcement agency under the Lithuanian Ministry of the Interior. Its activities include preventing money laundering and terrorist financing. The organization investigates financial crimes and tax manipulation and interprets relevant legislation.
Cost of a Crypto License in Lithuania
Government Fees and Share Capital
Currently, information on the state fee for CASP registration in Lithuania is pending approval in connection with the new MiCA regulation. Please note that you must also comply with the initial capital requirements for establishing your company, which are currently set between €50,000 and €150,000, depending on the CASP class.
Full Turnkey Package Options
Those who want to simplify their lives and avoid wasting time on legal and organizational issues can rely on specialized companies to handle the entire process. Prices for full packages, which include company formation, opening a bank account, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and license registration, vary, but generally range from €10,000 to €25,000. If you're looking to register a company in Lithuania and secure a crypto license quickly, this option is a great choice.
Taxation for Crypto Companies in Lithuania
Corporate Tax Rates
In Lithuania, according to tax legislation, the corporate tax rate for legal entities engaged in activities covered by a crypto license will be 15% as of 2025. Just so you know, this is the standard rate, but — and this is important — small companies and start-ups that meet certain criteria regarding the number of employees and annual income may be eligible for a reduced rate of 5%.
Benefits of Holding a Lithuanian Crypto License
Operational Freedom and Flexibility
A license will give you the flexibility and freedom you've been waiting for. A Lithuanian license allows you to conduct crypto transactions throughout Europe with sufficient autonomy. Currently, the EU is implementing regulations that are understandable and acceptable to businesses. These regulations create a solid foundation for companies to provide uninterrupted cryptocurrency-related services. Obtaining a CASP license ensures that your business in Lithuania will grow according to the necessary requirements without unreasonable restrictions.
Trust and Reputation in the Market
When choosing a region in which to obtain a license, it is equally important to consider the level of trust in that region. This is the main criterion to which your partners, potential clients, and even banking institutions will pay attention. And actually, Lithuania's not falling behind at all. On the contrary, a cryptocurrency license issued in Lithuania signals your compliance with EU requirements, anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing policies.
Scalability Across the EU
Although crypto licensing legislation is dynamic and likely to evolve further, Lithuania will still be at an advantage because its status as an EU member state enables companies to expand their activities throughout the EU. With a Lithuanian crypto license, Fyou can be sure that you and your company comply with all existing and future requirements and regulations in Europe. This allows your business to grow and expand legally and quickly into other countries.
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