Crypto Licence in Kazakhstan (2026): Requirements, Costs & How to Start

Kazakhstan is quickly becoming one of the key crypto hubs in Asia.

But the main reason is not just market growth — it is regulation.

Unlike many countries, Kazakhstan offers a clear and structured way to launch a crypto business through the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).

This is where companies obtain a crypto license in Kazakhstan and operate within a regulated environment.

Why Kazakhstan Is Attracting Crypto Businesses

Many projects look at Asia for expansion. Kazakhstan often comes up for a simple reason — it combines regulation with flexibility.

The AIFC created a special legal regime designed specifically for fintech and crypto companies.

This allows businesses to operate under clear rules while still keeping enough flexibility to build and scale.

Another strong advantage is taxation.

Licensed companies operating within the AIFC may benefit from a 0% tax rate on regulated activities, while the standard corporate tax in Kazakhstan is much higher.

What Is a Crypto License in Kazakhstan?

A crypto licenses in Kazakhstan is an authorization issued within the AIFC framework by the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA).

These licenses allows companies to legally provide services such as:

• operating a crypto exchange
• storing digital assets
• facilitating crypto transactions
• acting as an intermediary in investments

In simple terms, it gives your business a legal status and access to the market.

The Role of the AIFC and AFSA

The AIFC is not just a location — it is a separate legal environment with its own rules.

The main regulator is AFSA.

It reviews applications, sets requirements, and supervises licensed companies.

What makes AFSA different is its practical approach:

• it evaluates real business models
• it adapts requirements to the project
• it focuses on transparency and risk

This makes the process more flexible compared to many traditional regulators.

Types of Crypto Licenses in Kazakhstan

The type of license depends on what your business actually does.

The most common options include:

Digital Asset Trading Facility

Used for crypto exchanges and trading platforms.

Custody Services

For companies storing client assets.

Dealing as Agent

For intermediaries working on behalf of clients.

Dealing as Principal

For companies trading on their own account or operating as exchanges.

Each license has its own capital requirements and operational rules.

What You Need to Get a Crypto License

Obtaining a crypto license in Kazakhstan requires real preparation.

You cannot simply register a company and apply.

Key requirements include:

• a company registered in the AIFC
• a local office
• clear ownership structure
• management with relevant experience
• AML and compliance system
• internal policies describing operations

AFSA carefully checks:

• who owns the company
• how the business works
• where funds come from

This is one of the most important parts of the process.

Capital Requirements

Capital depends on the type of license.

For example:

• agent model → from USD 50,000
• trading/exchange → up to USD 500,000
• custody → lower base + operational buffer

The regulator may also require maintaining liquid assets based on operating costs.

How the Licensing Process Works

The process is structured but not instant.

It usually includes:

• First, the business model is analyzed and the right license type is selected.
• Then, the company is registered in the AIFC and a full documentation package is prepared.
• After submission, AFSA reviews the application, asks questions, and may request changes.
• Once approved, the company completes setup — capital deposit, office, team — and receives the license.

In practice, the full process takes around 6–7 months.

FinTech Lab: Testing Before Full Licensing

One of the most interesting features in Kazakhstan is the FinTech Lab.

This is a regulatory sandbox where companies can:

• test their product with real users
• operate under supervision
• start with reduced requirements

Many major players have used this model before obtaining a full license.

Ongoing Obligations

After getting a crypto license in Kazakhstan, companies must continue to comply with regulations.

This includes:

• AML/KYC procedures
• transaction monitoring
• reporting suspicious activity
• annual audits
• financial reporting

The regulator actively supervises licensed businesses.

Risks and What to Watch For

Kazakhstan offers opportunities — but also requires discipline.

The most common issues include:

• weak compliance setup
• unclear business model
• lack of proper documentation
• misunderstanding of regulatory scope

These problems often lead to delays or rejection.

Taxation of Crypto Companies

Kazakhstan combines regulation with incentives.

For licensed companies in the AIFC:

• 0% corporate tax on regulated activities
• no VAT in many cases
• dividend exemptions in certain situations

This makes the jurisdiction attractive not only legally, but also financially.

Why Kazakhstan Is Growing as a Crypto Hub

Kazakhstan is not trying to compete with offshore jurisdictions.

Instead, it offers:

• structured regulation
• access to Asian markets
• flexible licensing system
• strong focus on transparency

This is why more companies are considering it for expansion.

Crypto License in Kazakhstan with SBSB FinTech Lawyers

Obtaining a crypto license in Kazakhstan is not just about applying.

It is about building a business that regulators approve.

SBSB FinTech Lawyers supports clients at every stage:

• analysis of business model
• selection of license type
• company registration in AIFC
• preparation of documents and policies
• communication with AFSA
• support after licensing

We focus on results — not just process.

Final Thoughts

A crypto license in Kazakhstan is one of the most interesting options for entering the Asian market today.

It combines:

• clear regulation
• flexible approach
• strong tax advantages

For companies that are ready to build a structured business, it offers real long-term potential.

Get Your Crypto License in Kazakhstan

If you are considering obtaining a crypto license in Kazakhstan, we invite you to discuss your project with our team.

To book a consultation, please contact: yuliya_barabash@sb-sb.com