Do I need separate crypto and fiat licenses?

Often yes. Payment processing (PSD2) and crypto services (MiCA) are separate regulatory frameworks. Some jurisdictions allow combined applications. We coordinate multi-license applications. Book a consultation.

Crypto Payment License | Crypto EMI Structure

// The Problem

Payment Processing Without Authorization Is a Crime

Multiple Regulatory Frameworks

PSD2 for payment services. EMD2 for electronic money. MiCA for crypto-specific services. Your business model may trigger multiple regulatory requirements simultaneously.

Banking Is License-Dependent

Banks providing settlement services require your payment processing to be licensed. No license = no bank settlement = no payment processing.

Cross-Border Complexity

Processing payments across borders involves multiple jurisdictions' regulations. EU passporting helps but each member state may have additional requirements.

// The Solution

Crypto Payment License Types

Your business model determines which license(s) you need.

Lithuania EMI

Fastest EU EMI licensing. Bank of Lithuania processes EMI applications efficiently. EU passport. Best for: crypto payment providers wanting EU-wide authorization.

UK FCA

E-money or PI license. FCA-regulated. Access to UK market. Post-Brexit, separate from EU. Best for: UK-focused crypto payment providers.

Ireland

Central Bank regulated. EU member. Strong regulatory reputation. Best for: premium positioning with EU passport.

Dubai

VARA + payment processing. Combined crypto and payment authorization. Best for: Middle East and global payment processing.

The Right License Unlocks the Right Markets

EMI, PI, or VASP — the distinction matters. 30-minute consultation to determine your regulatory path — no obligation.

✓30-minute assessment

✓No obligation

✓Honest recommendation

✓100% confidential

Book Your Consultation

// Licensing

EMI vs. PI vs. VASP — What Do You Actually Need?

EMI (Electronic Money Institution): you issue electronic money (e-wallets, prepaid cards). PI (Payment Institution): you process payments without issuing e-money. VASP/CASP: you provide crypto-specific services. Many crypto payment providers need a combination. We determine the exact regulatory framework for your model.

✓Regulatory mapping — we analyze your business model and determine exactly which licenses apply.

✓Application preparation — capital requirements, governance, AML/KYC policies, and operational procedures.

✓Banking relationships — we connect you with settlement banks that work with licensed crypto payment providers.

✓Ongoing compliance — regulatory reporting, audit preparation, and license maintenance.

"Crypto payment gateway processing $5M/month. Needed EU authorization urgently. Lithuanian EMI license approved in 4 months. EU passport activated in 2 more. Now processing across 27 EU states with full banking access."

Dmitri V.Crypto Payment Provider, Lithuania

// Important

Key Considerations

Capital Requirements

EMI: €350K initial capital. PI: €125K (limited), €20K-€125K (full). VASP/CASP: varies. You need capital in place before applying.

Safeguarding

Client funds must be safeguarded — segregated accounts, insurance, or central bank guarantees. This is a core regulatory requirement.

Agent Networks

If you use agents or distributors, they must be registered with the regulator. Agent oversight creates additional compliance obligations.

// FAQ

Crypto Payment License Questions

If you issue wallets or prepaid cards: EMI. If you only process payments: PI. If you also exchange crypto: VASP/CASP additionally. Many providers need multiple authorizations. Book a consultation to map your requirements.

Lithuania: €100K-€200K total. UK: €150K-€300K. Ireland: €150K-€250K. Capital requirement: €350K. Total first year: €450K-€650K. Book a consultation for detailed budgeting.

Lithuania EMI: 4-6 months. UK FCA: 6-12 months. Ireland: 6-12 months. VASP registration: 2-4 months. Book a consultation to plan your timeline.

Yes. An EMI license from any EU member state can be passported to all 27 states through a notification process (2-3 months per country). Book a consultation to plan your passporting strategy.

MiCA creates specific authorization for stablecoin issuance (EMT — Electronic Money Token and ART — Asset-Referenced Token). This requires EMI authorization plus additional MiCA compliance. Book a consultation to discuss stablecoin licensing.

// Related Solutions

Also Relevant

Crypto Exchange

Exchange licensing.

Exchange License →

EMI License

Electronic Money Institution licensing.

EMI License →

Payment Institution

Payment processing licensing.

PI License →

Crypto Payments Need Licenses.
EMI, PI, or VASP?
We'll Tell You Which.