Comprehensive legal and corporate solutions to secure your lithuania crypto license and operate globally under a clear, trusted, and MiCA-ready regulatory framework.
Start Registration ProcessLithuania is currently one of the most crypto-friendly jurisdictions in the European Union, offering a streamlined path for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs).
The registration process is remarkably efficient compared to other EU states. With proper preparation, authorization can be obtained within 4 to 6 weeks, allowing rapid deployment of your services.
Lithuanian regulations are actively adapting to the upcoming Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. Registering now provides a solid foundation for passporting your services across the EU later.
A thriving fintech community, access to traditional banking (SEPA integrations), and an approachable regulator (FCIS) make it an ideal base for exchanges, wallets, and token issuers.
To ensure compliance with the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS), applicants must meet strict but transparent criteria regarding capital, staffing, and operations.
Since the regulatory updates, a Lithuanian VASP (acting as a crypto exchange or custodian wallet provider) must establish and maintain a minimum authorized share capital of €125,000. This capital must be deposited during the company formation phase.
Shell companies are not permitted. Your company requires a local presence in Lithuania, which includes a registered office address. Furthermore, you must appoint an AML/KYC Compliance Officer (MLRO) who is deeply familiar with local financial regulations.
Applicants must draft and implement comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering procedures. This includes client identification protocols, risk assessment models, and mechanisms for reporting suspicious transactions to the FCIS.
Shareholders, UBOs (Ultimate Beneficial Owners), and board members must pass a "fit and proper" test. This requires presenting spotless criminal records and proving professional experience in finance or blockchain technology.
We begin by drafting the Articles of Association and registering a private limited liability company (UAB) in Lithuania. During this phase, the €125,000 share capital is deposited into an electronic money institution (EMI) or bank account.
Simultaneously, our legal team drafts the mandatory AML/KYC policies, business plan, and compliance frameworks tailored to your specific crypto business model. We also collect passports and police clearance certificates from your directors.
Once the corporate entity is active and all compliance documents are finalized, we officially notify the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS) and the Register of Legal Entities about the commencement of VASP activities.
Upon successful registration, your company will appear on the public list of virtual currency exchange operators. You are now legally authorized to offer crypto-fiat exchange and custodial wallet services globally.
Understanding the tax landscape is crucial for operational profitability. Lithuania offers a straightforward corporate tax regime.
The standard Corporate Income Tax rate is 15%. However, micro-companies (fewer than 10 employees and under €300,000 in gross annual revenue) may qualify for a reduced CIT rate of just 5% on their profits.
Following the European Court of Justice rulings, the exchange of traditional fiat currency for cryptocurrency (and vice versa) is exempt from VAT. Standard VAT (21%) only applies to consulting or non-financial software services.
Dividends paid to shareholders are typically subject to a 15% withholding tax. However, various Double Taxation Treaties (DTTs) or the EU Parent-Subsidiary Directive can reduce this rate down to 0% in specific corporate structures.
No, shareholders and directors do not need to be Lithuanian residents or citizens. However, your company must have a registered physical address in Lithuania, and it is highly recommended to have local staff, particularly your AML Compliance Officer.
The registration covers two main activities: 1) Virtual Currency Exchange Operator (crypto-to-crypto and fiat-to-crypto) and 2) Depository Virtual Currency Wallet Operator (custody services for clients' funds).
While traditional high-street banks can be strict with crypto companies, Lithuania has a massive ecosystem of Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs). Opening an EMI account for safeguarding client fiat funds and handling operational expenses is standard practice and fully supported.
MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) comes into full effect across the EU by the end of 2024. Companies already registered in Lithuania will benefit from a transition period. Lithuania's current strict rules (like the €125k capital requirement) were designed specifically to align closely with upcoming MiCA standards, making the transition much easier.
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