CASP Crypto License in Ireland

As of 30 December 2024, the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) is fully in force. Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registrations are being replaced by Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) authorisations. Ireland offers a stable legal environment, advanced fintech ecosystem and direct access to the EU market.

Why choose Ireland for a CASP licence?

• EU market access – A single Irish licence allows passported operations across all 27 EU member states.
• Regulatory clarity – The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) is the sole supervisor and applies MiCA directly.
• Business-friendly ecosystem – Ireland hosts global fintechs, deep tech talent and strong investor networks.
• Competitive taxation – A 12.5 % corporate tax rate plus R&D incentives enhance profitability.

Who must apply?

Under MiCA, any firm offering these services to EU clients must hold a CASP licence:

• Custody of crypto-assets
• Exchange (crypto/fiat or crypto/crypto)
• Order execution or transfer services
• Portfolio management or investment advice on crypto-assets

Key licensing requirements

• Local substance – Irish legal entity, registered office and at least one resident executive director.
• Capital thresholds – €50 000 – €150 000, depending on the services provided.
• Governance – Qualified board with independent oversight, clear policies and risk controls.
• AML/CFT framework – Procedures aligned with EU AML rules and FATF standards.
• Consumer protection – Segregation of client assets, transparent disclosures, complaint handling.
• Cyber-security & market integrity – Systems to prevent market abuse and safeguard information.

Application timeline

• Pre-application meeting with the CBI
• Formal submission (Article 62 MiCA)
• CBI completeness check: 25 working days
• Assessment phase: up to 40 working days
• Typical end-to-end process: 3–6 months, assuming high-quality documentation

Transitional deadlines

• Existing Irish VASPs must secure CASP authorisation by 29 December 2025 to continue operating.
• New entrants need a CASP licence before offering services in Ireland or elsewhere in the EU.

How Demire Inc can help

• Licence eligibility assessment and strategic roadmap
• Preparation of all MiCA-compliant policies and manuals
• Irish entity formation, office setup and resident director sourcing
• Direct liaison with the CBI throughout the application process
• Ongoing compliance, reporting and audit support

Ready to secure your EU-wide CASP licence? Get in touch with Demire Inc to start the process in Ireland today.