How to get Lithuania Crypto Licence

Obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania has become a strategic move for blockchain companies aiming to operate within the European Union. Known for its efficient regulatory procedures and business-friendly environment, Lithuania crypto license offers one of the most accessible paths for securing legal status as a virtual asset service provider in Lithuania. The framework allows firms to engage in activities such as cryptocurrency exchange, wallet custody, and token transfers — all under a compliant structure that aligns with both national and EU-wide standards.

The appeal of the crypto license Lithuania lies in its balance of legal clarity, speed of registration, and low entry thresholds. Startups and international firms alike benefit from a streamlined process that includes registering a local entity and appointing a compliance officer. With the upcoming implementation of MiCA in Lithuania, businesses licensed today are positioning themselves for long-term success in a harmonized EU crypto environment. The crypto license in Lithuania not only ensures current regulatory compliance — it also future-proofs operations in an industry defined by constant legal evolution.

Why Lithuania is a Premier Crypto Jurisdiction

Lithuania has earned a solid reputation as a top destination for crypto entrepreneurs due to its streamlined regulations and clear government stance on digital assets. A major advantage of pursuing a Lithuania crypto license is the speed and simplicity of the process. The process includes company registration, document submission, and appointment of AML-compliant personnel but avoids excessive bureaucracy — making it ideal for both first-time applicants and experienced crypto firms alike.

Moreover, Lithuania’s regulatory infrastructure is closely aligned with the upcoming MiCA in Lithuania framework. This ensures that entities operating under the crypto license in Lithuania today will not face major restructuring once EU-wide rules come into effect. By combining legal clarity, cost-effectiveness, and future-proof compliance, Lithuania has positioned itself as one of the most strategic jurisdictions for launching a fully compliant crypto business in Lithuania within the EU.

Lithuania Crypto License Types and MiCA Transition

Lithuania previously operated with two separate VASP authorisations — crypto exchange license in Lithuania and custodian wallet operator — but regulatory updates have merged these into a single VASP registration where firms simply select the activities they plan to provide. The crypto exchange license in Lithuania permits businesses to operate digital asset trading platforms, offering fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-crypto transactions. Meanwhile, the wallet license authorizes companies to provide custodial services for client crypto assets, including the management of private keys. Together, these form the backbone of the Lithuania crypto license framework, allowing firms to launch end-to-end crypto operations in full legal compliance.

As the EU’s MiCA in Lithuania regulation approaches enforcement, existing VASP structures will evolve into a unified crypto asset service provider regime. This transition will require enhanced risk disclosures, increased capital thresholds, and stricter AML oversight. However, Lithuania is already well-aligned with MiCA’s core principles, making it one of the easiest jurisdictions to adapt to the new rules. For businesses that secure their crypto license in Lithuania today, the shift toward EU-wide compliance is not a disruption — it’s a natural progression.

Pre-MiCA License Types

Before MiCA comes into full force, Lithuania’s regulatory framework distinguishes between two main types of Lithuania crypto license:

• Crypto Exchange License in Lithuania — Grants authorization to operate a digital currency trading platform. Licensed entities can facilitate the buying, selling, and exchanging of cryptocurrencies for fiat or other digital assets.

• Crypto Wallet License in Lithuania — Permits the custody and management of users’ cryptocurrency wallets, including holding and securing private keys.

Both licenses fall under the broader umbrella of the VASP license in Lithuania regime, regulated by the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS). They offer the foundational compliance structure for any crypto business in Lithuania looking to operate legally and sustainably prior to full MiCA implementation.

Post-MiCA CASP Registration

The change is already under way: Lithuania’s new crypto law has entered into force, granting firms a transitional window to 31 December 2025 to secure a CASP registration. This business-friendly update cements Lithuania’s reputation as one of the most attractive EU jurisdictions for crypto companies preparing for MiCA.

Under the new model, businesses will be able to register for multiple CASP roles, including custody, exchange, and crypto portfolio management services — each integrated within the unified crypto license in Lithuania regime.

The MiCA in Lithuania transition brings legal clarity, enhanced consumer protections, and EU-wide passporting rights — elevating the Lithuania crypto license into a powerful tool for continental expansion.

Key Benefits of Lithuanian Crypto License

Lithuania stands out as one of Europe’s most business-friendly environments for crypto ventures. A major advantage of obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania is the speed and efficiency of the registration process.

Finally, Lithuania’s crypto framework aligns seamlessly with European regulations. Licensing is now handled directly by the Bank of Lithuania (BoL), allowing companies to operate legally today while positioning themselves for the upcoming CASP transition. This forward-compatible model ensures that companies holding a Lithuania crypto license today are already on track for full EU-wide compliance and future expansion.

Requirements and Capital Structure

To secure a crypto license in Lithuania, companies must first register a legal entity (UAB) with a local office and appoint a Lithuania-based AML officer. The business must have clear KYC/AML procedures and a documented operational plan.

Previously, Lithuania crypto license requirements included no minimum capital, but under MiCA, CASPs must meet thresholds from €50,000 to €150,000 depending on the services offered.

Legal and Financial Requirements

To obtain a crypto license in Lithuania, applicants must meet both legal and financial standards to ensure compliance with EU regulations. Legally, the company must be registered as a Lithuanian private limited liability company (UAB) and appoint a qualified local AML/CTF compliance officer.

Financially, while pre-MiCA frameworks had no capital thresholds, the transition toward MiCA introduces stricter requirements. Depending on the type of services provided, virtual asset service providers in Lithuania must maintain share capital ranging from €50,000 to €150,000. These rules ensure that companies operating under a Lithuania crypto license are solvent and credible.

Operational Compliance Framework

To maintain a valid crypto license in Lithuania, businesses must implement detailed AML and KYC policies and appoint a compliance officer responsible for ensuring regulatory adherence. Strong internal governance, GDPR-compliant data protection, and clear reporting are essential for keeping a Lithuania crypto license in good standing.

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

Obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania follows a clear legal path with defined steps, including company incorporation, compliance document preparation, and submission to the Bank of Lithuania. Once approved, firms holding a crypto exchange license in Lithuania or wallet license can activate EU passporting and operate across the European Economic Area.

Company Registration and Documentation

Obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania starts with establishing a UAB company. This structure is essential for operating as a virtual asset service provider in Lithuania.

As part of the crypto license Lithuania application, firms must submit AML/CFT policies and appoint a qualified compliance officer — ensuring adherence to both Lithuanian and EU standards.

License Application and Approval

The company submits its CASP application to the Bank of Lithuania via the LBIS e-portal. The BoL has 65 working days to assess a complete submission for a crypto license in Lithuania.

Costs and Investment Requirements

Securing a crypto license in Lithuania is one of the most cost-effective options in the EU. Initial investments include company setup, compliance documentation, and local substance. Despite these costs, the Lithuania crypto license remains a highly efficient pathway for regulated crypto operations.

Common Challenges and Solutions

While Lithuania offers a streamlined process for obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania, applicants often face challenges such as preparing complete documentation and opening corporate bank accounts. Partnering with advisors experienced in Lithuania crypto license procedures helps ensure a smooth application process and full MiCA compliance.

Why Choose SBSB Fintech Lawyers

Obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania is a strategic move — but navigating the legal and compliance aspects requires expert guidance. SBSB Fintech Lawyers provides end-to-end support for all types of crypto licenses, including crypto exchange license in Lithuania, wallet, and CASP registrations.

SBSB helps businesses secure a Lithuania crypto license efficiently and maintain compliance under the evolving MiCA framework. Our team ensures that every crypto license Lithuania application meets the highest legal standards, helping clients establish sustainable and fully compliant operations across the EU.

📩 Have questions? Write to us at yuliya_barabash@sb-sb.com — we’ll be glad to assist you with obtaining your crypto license in Lithuania.