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Crypto license in Lithuania
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Submit a request on our site to receive a pricing quote and schedule your initial consultation.
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We'll navigate you through the entire process of acquiring a Lithuania crypto license.
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After the licensing process is complete, we will continue to support your business with our legal and accounting services, maintaining ongoing communication.
is one of the best countries to start a crypto business
Obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania
Lithuania stands as an excellent jurisdiction for acquiring a crypto license, thanks to its practical and flexible regulatory framework. As part of the European Union, Lithuania offers an economical pathway for obtaining a crypto license, making it a preferred destination for emerging crypto projects and fintech businesses. The nation's regulatory measures are crafted to encourage innovation while maintaining the requisite level of compliance and security, providing an ideal mix for both startups and established businesses.
One of the significant advantages of opting for Lithuania for a crypto license is the relative simplicity of the licensing procedure. Lithuania's regulatory body has minimal requirements, enabling businesses to navigate the licensing process more easily. This approach allows companies to focus more on their business development rather than being entangled in complex regulatory affairs.
Moreover, the process of obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania is straightforward and time-efficient. This prompt procedure enables businesses to commence their operations in the crypto sector swiftly, providing a competitive edge in this fast-paced industry. With its crypto-friendly regulations and expedited processes, Lithuania serves as a launchpad for crypto businesses aiming for rapid market entry.
In addition to these benefits, Lithuania also offers comprehensive supporting services. Direct service providers in the country offer a range of auxiliary services such as the ability to open accounts in European payment systems, accounting services, and technical support. These services assist in the smooth operation and successful development of crypto businesses, making Lithuania a comprehensive solution for crypto licensing.
| Essential | Full | Platinum | |
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| Price | €3 500 | €6 500 | €9 500 |
| Timeframe | up to 4 weeks | up to 8 weeks | up to 6 weeks |
| Incorporation of the company |  |
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| Provision of legal address for one year | |
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| Acquisition of a crypto license | |
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| Establishing a bank account for a share capital contribution of 125 000 EUR | |
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| Development of basic AML/CFT policy | |
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| Locating a local MLRO through public sources based on your criteria | |
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| Provision of a local MLRO from our team with a fixed salary for 3 months (instead of hiring based on your criteria) | |
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| Full legal support for MLRO | |
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| Assistance in finding a suitable business location (leasing a physical office) | |
Steps for acquiring a crypto license in Lithuania
The license acquisition process is quite simple and can be broken down into three primary stages:
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Document preparation
We enable you to register a company entirely remotely using Power of Attorney, thus requiring you to provide us with the original documents necessary for the notary deal. We will prepare a draft of the Power of Attorney and guide you through the certification process. Once we have received the documents, we handle the rest, ending your part in the process.
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Registering the company
Armed with the Power of Attorney and your provided information, we can fill out all necessary forms, translate documents into Lithuanian, and represent you at the notary deal for the incorporation of the company. Additionally, we will open an account for the share capital contribution and assist with the employment of a MLRO specialist.
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Obtaining a crypto license
As soon as the company is fully operational, our subsequent step involves obtaining a license to enable you to start the crypto activities. We will notify the Commercial Register of Lithuania about the company's registration as a virtual assets service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What exactly is a crypto license?
A crypto license provides authorization to conduct cryptocurrency related operations, such as crypto exchange, crypto wallet services.
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What is the purpose of obtaining a crypto license?
A crypto license enables the establishment of a crypto exchange, the creation and management of crypto custodial wallets, and the launch of your own ICO on the exchange. It ensures that your business complies with Lithuanian law while allowing you to build international partnerships and open accounts on leading exchanges.
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What assistance do you provide in acquiring a crypto license?
We provide three distinct packages according to your requirements:
Essential:Company registration, acquiring a crypto license, legal address for 1 year, share capital registration of 125 000 EUR, basic AML/CFT policy.
Full:Everything in the Essential package, plus search of a local MLRO through public sources based on your criteria
Platinum:Everything in the Full package, plus provision of a local MLRO from our candidates with a fixed salary for 3 months (instead of hiring based on your criteria), our full legal assistance for MLRO and assistance in finding a suitable business location.
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What is the timeframe for obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania?
The timeframe varies based on the chosen service package:
Essential - up to 4 weeks,
Full - up to 8 weeks,
Platinum - up to 6 weeks. -
Which documents are required to acquire a crypto license in Lithuania?
It will be necessary to provide passport copies for all shareholders and directors, proof of residence among other documents.
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Are there any residency requirements for the company's founders and directors?
In Lithuania, there are no residency requirements for founders and directors, it is possible to manage the company from abroad.
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What is the minimum share capital?
The minimum share capital in Lithuania is 125 000 EUR, however it is possible to contribute only 25% of the amount as the first step.
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What is the requirement for the company's legal address?
The company must have a valid legal address in Lithuania.
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Is the appointment of a MLRO (money laundering reporting officer) necessary for acquiring a crypto license?
In order to operate with cryptocurrencies in Lithuania, it is necessary to have a local exclusive specialist employed, whose task will be to notify the Regulator about suspicious transactions. We will gladly assist you with finding the right candidate and with his registration.
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What is the AML/CFT policy?
The AML/CFT (anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing) policy is a document that outlines the company's procedures and measures to prevent its services from being used for money laundering or financing terrorism.
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What are the AML/CFT policy requirements?
The AML/CFT policy should be designed considering the risks associated with the company's activities and should comply with Lithuanian law.
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Can I acquire a crypto license if I already have a registered company in Lithuania?
Yes, you can apply for a crypto license with us, we will assist you to fulfill the requirements.
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Can I onboard clients from outside Lithuania?
Yes, you can onboard clients outside Lithuania, as long as you meet customer verification requirements; there are no restrictions from Lithuanian law.
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What taxes do companies with a crypto license in Lithuania have to pay?
Companies are obliged to pay a corporate income tax, which can vary from 5% to 15%.
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What reporting is needed after obtaining a crypto license?
The company is required to submit an annual financial report. Furthermore, VASPs are not subject to VAT obligations.
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What is the duration of the crypto license's validity?
The crypto license is valid indefinitely once issued.
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How can I open a corporate bank account for a company with a crypto license?
Opening a corporate bank account for non-residents, especially for high-risk companies, can be complex. We recommend opening corporate accounts in European payment systems (EMI/PSP).
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Can I acquire a crypto license without being physically present in Lithuania?
Yes, we can handle the process of obtaining a crypto license through power of attorney, which does not require your personal presence in the country.
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What other services are provided for companies with a crypto license?
We offer a wide array of additional services, such as search and recruitment of an AML specialist or MLRO, legal address, consultations, assistance in opening corporate accounts, as well as translation and apostilling of documents.
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Can I rely on your support if I encounter issues or have queries after acquiring a crypto license?
Yes, we provide ongoing support to our clients even after the service is provided and are glad to assist with any emerging issues.
Leave your request and our specialists
will get in touch with you!
Contact us to get an initial consultation and a personal price offer.
Our specialists will answer all your questions and assist you with
the licensing process.
VASP and cryptocurrency in Lithuania
With the rise of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, Lithuania has become an increasingly attractive destination for businesses in this space. This is mainly due to its forward-thinking approach to establishing regulatory frameworks and creating favorable conditions for businesses. Many crypto startups have already established their headquarters in Lithuania, as well as in other Baltic countries like Lithuania, Latvia and Finland
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The Rise of Cryptocurrency in Lithuania
Lithuania has been at the forefront of fintech since the 1990s, when it was part of the Soviet Union. It became the first country in the world to introduce electronic payments for government services in 1996. This solidified Lithuania's reputation as an advanced e-commerce center. The financial crisis of 2007–2008 brought changes in the financial sector. It also triggered a shift towards more innovative and new technologies, such as cryptocurrencies. Lithuanian businesses began to venture into fintech with a cryptocurrency focus. This shift towards fintech is clearly reflected in the report published by the Financial Technologies Review in the beginning of 2019, which shows that Lithuania is one of the most attractive fintech destinations in Europe.
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Benefits for crypto businesses in Lithuania
The benefits of setting up a crypto business in Lithuania are plenty. First of all, the country has very affordable yet high-quality IT development services. This means it is easier to find experienced developers and designers with a lower budget, compared to other European countries. Additionally, Lithuanian companies have proven their reliability by meeting all the deadlines set. Lithuania has a highly educated population. Moreover, there are several universities in the country that provide education in IT and other relevant fields. This makes it easier for companies to find employees with the right skills. Moreover, Lithuania is globally connected, with a stable political and economic situation, and a strong national currency. This means that setting up a business in Lithuania is a safe decision. In addition, Lithuanian crypto businesses have easy access to global markets. This is mostly due to the fact that the country is well-connected to other European destinations and is a member of the EU.
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Crypto Exchanges
As one of the fastest-growing industries, crypto exchanges have become a major source of revenue for Lithuanian businesses. There are currently over 20 crypto exchanges operating in Lithuania, including BitFury, BitPanther, and Hashcoins. The two biggest crypto exchanges based in Vilnius, Lithuania are OKEx and BitFlyer. OKEx has been operating in the global crypto market since 2014, and it is currently the world’s 5th-largest crypto exchange with daily trading volume of $1,500,000,000. BitFlyer is the world’s 7th-largest crypto exchange, with daily trading volume of $1,200,000,000.
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Blockchain Development Companies
Blockchain development is another industry that has seen rapid growth in Lithuania. A wide range of companies have started offering blockchain development services in Lithuania, as well as in other countries like Estonia, and Ukraine. The country also hosts many large blockchain companies such as E-net, Amber, and Blocventures. E-net is one of the world’s leading blockchain and cryptocurrency companies. They have recently established their headquarters in Lithuania, where they employ around 100 people. Amber is another major blockchain development company, which was established in Lithuania in 2017. Moreover, the country has become a major hub for the ICO industry, with many ICOs being hosted in Lithuania. In fact, Lithuania has one of the most attractive ICO laws in Europe. Lithuanian ICOs have raised over $100 million in funding this year, with the total expected to reach $250 million by the end of the year.
Lithuania is one of the fastest-growing fintech and blockchain destinations in Europe. This Baltic country has seen a rapid growth in the crypto industry over the past few years. The strong political and economic situation, as well as the availability of high-quality IT and blockchain development services, makes Lithuania an attractive place for businesses in this industry. Overall, there are many reasons why crypto businesses should consider Lithuania as their next home.
Leave your request and our specialists
will get in touch with you!
Contact us to get an initial consultation and a personal price offer.
Our specialists will answer all your questions and assist you with
the licensing process.