Why license a crypto business in Lithuania?
Lithuania has become a common EU entry point for crypto founders: a fintech-friendly member state with an English-friendly regulator and an established crypto and EMI ecosystem. As it transitions its previously popular virtual-asset registration regime into MiCA, a Bank of Lithuania CASP authorisation offers a harmonised rulebook and EU-wide passporting, making it a practical gateway to the European single market. For the wider EU regime, see our MiCA overview.
EU passporting. A Lithuanian MiCA CASP authorisation can be passported across the EU single market once granted, subject to home-state requirements.
Accessible entry point. Lithuania is a comparatively accessible, fintech-friendly EU member state and a common gateway for crypto founders entering Europe.
English-friendly engagement. The Bank of Lithuania is used to working with international applicants and supports English-language engagement.
Established ecosystem. A mature fintech, EMI, and crypto ecosystem offers service providers, talent, and operational support.
MiCA harmonisation. Authorisation sits within the harmonised EU MiCA framework, giving issuers and providers a clear, single-market rulebook.
Single-market gateway. Lithuania serves as a practical base from which to serve clients across the wider European Union.
Lithuania authorisation routes and activities
The right route depends on what your business does. We map your model to the correct MiCA CASP authorisation:
Crypto Exchange
Operating exchange services for crypto-assets, within the MiCA CASP scope and subject to AML and conduct requirements.
Custody and Wallet
Custody and administration of crypto-assets on behalf of clients, with safeguarding, segregation, and security expectations.
MiCA CASP Authorisation
Authorisation as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider under MiCA, granted by the Bank of Lithuania for in-scope crypto-asset services.
Other CASP Services
Further crypto-asset services within the MiCA CASP scope, such as transfer, placing, or reception and transmission of orders, depending on the model.
AML and KYC
AML/CFT, KYC, and the Travel Rule must be embedded, reflecting raised standards under MiCA and the end of the light-touch era.
EU Passporting
Once authorised, passporting notifications allow the provision of crypto-asset services across other EU member states.
Note: Costs are indicative and may change with your requirements and regulations. Contact us for a tailored quote.