VASP License: Choose the Right Crypto Licensing Jurisdiction

A VASP license (Virtual Asset Service Provider license) is a regulatory authorization that allows a company to provide virtual asset services such as exchange, brokerage/OTC, custody, transfers, and other crypto-related services (depending on the jurisdiction’s definitions).

In most jurisdictions, yes—if you serve clients, facilitate trades, custody assets, or operate a platform, you will likely need some form of registration, authorization, or license. The exact requirement depends on where you are incorporated, where your clients are located, and what services you provide.

Generally, no. Licenses are jurisdiction-specific. Some jurisdictions are more internationally recognized than others, but you should still plan for local regulatory requirements in your target markets.

Regulators typically classify VASP activities by what you actually do, such as:

• Exchange (platform, brokerage, or order-matching)

• OTC / broker-dealer (negotiated trades, principal/agent dealing)

• Custody (holding client assets/keys or controlling wallets)

• Transfers (moving virtual assets on behalf of clients) Correct classification is one of the biggest factors in approval success.

Timelines vary widely, usually from a few months to 12+ months, depending on the jurisdiction, business model complexity, compliance readiness, and regulator review cycles.

There is no universal price. Total cost is driven by:

• the scope of regulated activities

• regulatory/government fees

• compliance documentation and risk framework depth

• required appointments (directors, MLRO, compliance officer)

• capital/deposit expectations (if applicable)

• audits and ongoing reporting obligations

Because a license without workable fiat rails is operationally limited. Banking/EMI access depends on:

• your jurisdiction and compliance posture

• source of funds/wealth clarity

• transaction monitoring setup

• risk profile (markets served, tokens listed, geographies)

Most applications require a regulator-ready pack such as:

• AML/CFT policy and procedures

• risk assessment and customer risk model

• KYC/EDD and onboarding workflows

• transaction monitoring and reporting procedures

• governance and internal controls

• business plan and financial projections

Some jurisdictions require meaningful local substance, such as:

• local directors/officers

• resident MLRO or compliance officer

• physical office and operational footprint Others allow a leaner model with outsourced functions. Substance should be aligned with regulator expectations and banking strategy.

Yes—many jurisdictions allow pre-operational applications. However, regulators still expect a complete operating model, policies, controls, and a realistic implementation plan.

Common issues include:

• incorrect licensing category selection

• weak AML/CFT framework and risk assessment

• unclear source of funds/wealth for UBOs

• insufficient governance/substance

• unrealistic financials or business plan gaps

• incomplete IT/security controls (where required)

Start with four decision filters:

1. Target markets & client geography

2. Banking & fiat access

3. Compliance & substance readiness

4. Cost & time-to-market A short jurisdiction assessment can prevent costly re-licensing later.