FCA Sets September 2026 Start for UK Crypto Licensing Applications

• The FCA will launch applications for a license to deal in cryptocurrencies in September 2026.
• The existing MLR registrations would not automatically qualify under the new system.
• Companies that fail to meet this opportunity may find themselves limited regarding new cryptocurrency operations.

The financial authorities in the UK have put a timeline in place for a new licensing framework for crypto entities in the UK, and this signifies a major compliance change for digital entities in Britain. The Financial Conduct Authority has recently clarified the plans by digital entities to start applications for licensure in September 2026, before its launch in October 2027.

In a statement issued on Thursday, however, the FCA explained that crypto asset service providers (CASPs) must be ready to apply for full authorization before the new regime is implemented. “We anticipate that the application period is set to open in September 2026. We will provide more detailed dates nearer to launch,” explained the FCA.

The FCA’s licensing gateway will provide a limited window for firms to submit applications and receive decisions before the regime goes live on Oct. 25, 2027. Firms that fail to secure authorization by that date could face restrictions on expanding their services in the UK.

Existing registrations will not convert automatically

Under the new framework, all companies offering regulated crypto services in the UK will need authorization under the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA). The requirement applies even to firms already registered with the FCA under existing Money Laundering Regulations (MLRs) or payment-related frameworks.

The FCA stressed that current registrations will not roll over automatically. “Firms that are registered with us under the MLRs should note that there will be no automatic conversion,” the regulator said. “They will need to secure authorisation by us under FSMA prior to the commencement of the new regime.”

Crypto companies that already hold FCA authorization for other regulated activities must also take action. Those firms will need to vary their existing permissions to cover crypto services before the regime begins.

In addition, crypto businesses that currently rely on third-party authorized firms to approve their financial promotions will no longer be able to do so. Under the new rules, companies must obtain direct FCA authorization to market crypto products and services to UK consumers.

Tight application window raises stakes

The FCA will open a defined application window, which will be at least 28 days and will close no later than 28 days prior to the new regime coming into force. Decisions will then be made on applications received within that timeframe before October 2027.

A “saving provision” is included in the draft legislation that enables companies to keep running while the FCA examines applications submitted during the window period. This is intended to soften the effect on those who are compliant and apply on time.

But for companies that fail to apply within the application window or obtain the relevant authorization by the start date, the rules provide for them under the transitional provisions. These rules ensure that the company is not able to offer any new services or expand its services, but continue with its existing services.

Late applicants may apply after this deadline, but they must understand a warning issued by the FCA: they may experience processing delays and more stringent operating requirements.

Industry impact and next steps

The notice gives crypto companies close to a year to prepare for the application process; however, it has also increased the pressure on them concerning compliance and capital structuring. This is expected to trigger an influx of applications as companies will try to secure UK market entry before the deadline expires.

The UK government promotes the new regime as helping to place crypto within the same regulatory umbrella as the financial sector. It provides regulatory clarity for companies that think ahead, but operational risk for companies that procrastinate.

This means, in light of the FCA now finalizing technical standards and guidelines, the message for crypto firms is clear: apply early, prepare well, or get left behind when the UK’s crypto regime enters into force.

Highlighted Crypto News:

Polygon (POL) Catches a Bullish Breeze: How Far Can the 17% Rally Stretch?