UK FCA to Launch Crypto Licensing Gateway by 2026
- UK FCA will open the crypto licensing gateway in 2026.
- This affects firms aiming to continue UK crypto activities.
- Market participants must apply during the September 2026 window.
The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will unveil the crypto licensing gateway in September 2026, ahead of a new regulatory framework set for October 2027.
This move impacts firms seeking UK cryptoasset authorization, highlighting the transition from AML registration, affecting crypto exchanges and custodians, with significant compliance and operational requirements to follow.
The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has announced plans to open a crypto licensing gateway in September 2026. This move precedes a new regulatory regime set to start on 25 October 2027, marking a shift from AML registration to FSMA authorization. “We expect the application period will open in September 2026. We will confirm this in due course via a direction published on our website.” – FCA, UK regulator
The primary entities involved are the FCA and HM Treasury. Firms wanting to engage in regulated crypto activities must secure FSMA authorization. Firms currently registered under the MLRs must reapply to continue operations beyond the new regime’s start.
This announcement will impact all crypto firms operating in the UK. Firms must adjust to secure authorization during the application window. Failure to apply may confine firms to a restricted regime, affecting their ability to undertake new cryptoasset activities.
The application window, expected to be 28 days long, opens in September 2026. A delay could lead to what experts call a “cliff-edge risk,” potentially disrupting businesses. This regulatory change requires firms to update compliance and operational strategies.
Industry stakeholders are reallocating resources to meet new standards by 2026. Legal experts emphasize the time pressure on firms to comply before the gateway’s introduction. Concerns about restricted operations highlight the demanded readiness from financial entities.
Potential outcomes include stricter compliance measures affecting BTC, ETH, and major altcoins. This could redefine market access and alter the landscape for centralized and decentralized crypto activities. Firms must navigate these changes within the expected regulatory framework.
