CASP Crypto License in Lithuania

Lithuania remains a leading EU hub for crypto businesses, offering a fintech-friendly environment and streamlined licensing—now fully aligned with MiCA. From 30 December 2024, only Crypto‑Asset Service Provider (CASP)authorisations are valid. Lithuania has even extended the transition deadline, showing its pro-innovation stance.

Why choose Lithuania?

• Fast licensing – Lithuania processes fintech licences in months, not years.
• Supportive regulator – The Bank of Lithuania and Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS) actively support and oversee crypto firms. 
• Extended transitional period – Companies can apply until 1 January 2026, giving more time to comply.
• Rich ecosystem – With over 100 active crypto firms and booming fintech growth, Lithuania is a proven innovation hub.

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Who needs a licence?

Any firm offering the following to EU clients must hold a CASP licence under MiCA (Art. 3):

• Crypto custody/wallet services
• Crypto-to-crypto or crypto-to-fiat exchange
• Order execution & transfer of transactions
• Portfolio management or investment advice
• Crypto brokerage or trading platform operation

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Licensing requirements

• Local presence – Lithuanian legal entity (UAB), registered office, and at least one EU-resident director. 
• Capital – Typically €125 000 or more, depending on service scope.
• Governance team – Must include local CCO, MLRO and possibly CTO/COO.
• AML/CFT & KYC – Strong systems, including EDD, transaction monitoring, and SAR reporting to FCIS within 24 hours.
• Technology safeguards – Crypto custody with private key security; crisis and asset-segregation plans.

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Timeline & transitional rules

• MiCA effective: 30 Dec 2024 → CASP licence required
• Transitional deadline: Submit application by 1 Jan 2026 to continue operations under grandfathering rules.
• Migration path: Existing VASPs operational pre‑2025 may continue until licence decision, but cross‑border services require full CASP approval.

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Ongoing obligations

Once licensed, CASPs must maintain:

• Capital buffers as required by MiCA
• Annual reporting: audited financials and operational metrics
• Real-time monitoring and suspicious activity reporting
• Record retention: at least five years of transaction and KYC data

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How Demire Inc can support you

• Entity setup and capital structuring
• Preparation of MiCA-compliant AML/KYC, governance, and crypto custody policies
• Local talent sourcing: CCO, MLRO, CTO/COO
• Full licence submission and management with the Bank of Lithuania & FCIS
• Ongoing regulatory compliance, audit support, SAR filing, and record management

Contact us today to obtain your CASP crypto license in Lithuania and take advantage of the country's favorable environment for fintech startups. Our team of experts will guide you through the process and help you stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency.