How to Get a MiCA License in Poland: Your Guide to EU-Wide Compliance
Why Poland? – Poland in Numbers
Category | Score | Description |
Regulatory Environment | 4/5 | Poland offers a clear and stable regulatory framework and aligns with MiCA’s EU-wide compliance standards, making it a reliable hub for CASPs. |
Market Accessibility | 4/5 | A strategic location in the EU provides businesses with seamless access to all 27 member states under a single MiCA license. |
Crypto Infrastructure | 3.5/5 | Poland has a growing network of crypto ATMs, Bitcoin nodes, and blockchain infrastructure, supporting digital asset operations. |
Talent Pool | 4/5 | With strong educational institutions and a growing blockchain workforce, Poland offers a skilled talent pool for crypto businesses. |
Cost-Effectiveness | 5/5 | Poland boasts low operational costs and favorable tax policies, making it an affordable base for MiCA-licensed companies. |
Consumer Adoption | 4/5 | Poland has a high rate of crypto ownership and a vibrant local market, making it an attractive location for expansion. |
Poland was a leading destination for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) before the introduction of MiCA. With over 1,000 VASP registrations in recent years, Poland established itself as one of Europe’s most crypto-friendly jurisdictions. However, with MiCA replacing national VASP licensing, Poland now offers a cost-effective and strategic location for businesses seeking MiCA authorization.
A Former Leader in VASP Registrations
- High Registration Volume: Before MiCA, Poland was home to over 1,000 registered VASPs, representing nearly one-third of all global VASP registrations.
- Trusted Destination: Poland’s clear regulatory framework and business-friendly environment attracted a large number of crypto companies.
Strategic Market with Economic Growth
- Large and Growing Market: With a population of 41 million, Poland ranks as the 5th largest country in Europe.
- Consistent GDP Growth: Poland boasts one of the highest and most consistent GDP growth rates in Europe, fueling business potential and investor confidence.
Education and Blockchain Innovation
- Educational Powerhouse: 27 of Poland’s 408 universities offer blockchain-related courses, making it a leading European hub for crypto and blockchain education.
- Global Leader in Crypto Education: Ranked 16th worldwide for crypto education, Poland cultivates a skilled workforce ready to support blockchain and digital asset industries.
Vibrant and Growing Crypto Community
- Expansive User Base: Over 2.5 million crypto users in Poland, comprising 6.3% of the population.
- Crypto-Friendly Infrastructure: Ranked 10th globally, Poland has 272 locations accepting Bitcoin, fostering a supportive ecosystem for crypto users and businesses.
Progressive Regulatory Framework
- Ranked 13th for Positive Crypto Regulation: Favorable evaluations by FATF, PwC, and Coincub showcase Poland’s proactive, innovation-friendly regulatory approach.
- Balanced Compliance and Innovation: Poland’s regulations offer a balanced environment that encourages growth while ensuring compliance.
Competitive Tax Advantages
- Flat 19% Tax Rate: Poland offers a flat 19% tax rate on both long-term and short-term crypto investments for individuals, providing clear, predictable tax obligations.
Why Obtain a MiCA License in Poland?
Poland’s Role in the MiCA Framework
With the introduction of MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation), Poland is no longer issuing standalone VASP licenses. Instead, businesses looking to operate across the EU crypto market must now obtain a MiCA license. Poland remains one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions in the EU for companies seeking MiCA compliance, offering a stable regulatory framework, a low-cost operational base, and seamless access to the EU market.
Credibility & Trust Under MiCA
Securing MiCA authorization in Poland signals compliance, transparency, and trust in the eyes of regulators, clients, and investors. Under MiCA, CASPs (Crypto-Asset Service Providers) must meet stringent AML and consumer protection requirements, enhancing their credibility within the European financial ecosystem.
Strategic Access to the EU Crypto Market
Establishing your MiCA-licensed entity in Poland allows full passporting rights across all 27 EU countries, enabling companies to legally operate in exchanges, custody services, payments, and digital assets throughout the region. Poland’s crypto-savvy market and growing demand for regulated service providers make it an attractive launchpad for EU-wide expansion.
Efficient & Cost-Effective MiCA Compliance
Poland provides a cost-effective alternative to jurisdictions like Germany, France, and the Netherlands, where compliance costs are significantly higher. By basing your MiCA-licensed entity in Poland, you can leverage lower operational expenses, access a strong talent pool, and benefit from a favorable tax environment while ensuring full compliance with EU crypto regulations.
Scalable & Future-Proof Framework
MiCA introduces harmonized regulations that streamline compliance across the EU, allowing businesses to expand their services without requiring multiple licenses. By securing MiCA licensing in Poland, companies gain a long-term regulatory advantage while positioning themselves for scalable growth in the European crypto market.
Our Guarantee: Hassle-Free MiCA Licensing in Poland
Navigating MiCA compliance can be complex, but with our local expertise and regulatory insights, we ensure a seamless licensing process. Our team manages every step, from company formation to MiCA application submission, ensuring your business is fully compliant and market-ready without unnecessary delays.
Our Services
Company Formation – New LLC Setup or Ready-Made Company Options
We offer flexible company formation options tailored to your needs, whether setting up a new LLC or utilizing a ready-made company for faster market entry. Our experts ensure your company is structured correctly to meet MiCA compliance requirements from the outset, with full support on selecting and registering a business name, appointing directors, and handling necessary documentation.
MiCA Registration – CASP Authorization Under MiCA
As part of the MiCA licensing process, we take care of the authorization application for Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) under MiCA regulations. Our team compiles and submits all required materials, ensuring compliance with Poland’s regulatory framework and MiCA standards.
Regulatory Communication – Liaison with Regulatory Authorities
With extensive experience liaising with Polish regulatory authorities, we manage all communication on your behalf, keeping the process smooth and transparent. We proactively handle any inquiries or requests for additional information from regulators, ensuring swift responses that avoid delays and demonstrate compliance.
Customized AML/KYC Policies – Developed for Your Business Model
We design Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies tailored to your specific business model, ensuring alignment with MiCA’s AML/CTF framework. Our policies are thorough yet adaptable, helping you meet ongoing compliance requirements and preparing you for routine audits. We also offer training and implementation support to ensure your team understands and enforces these policies effectively.
Local Compliance Officer – Integration and Direct Employment Agreement
Our service includes finding and integrating a local Compliance Officer, who will be directly employed under a compliant agreement. This officer will oversee your AML/KYC framework and maintain consistent regulatory communication to ensure your business meets all compliance obligations in real time. Through these vetted professionals, we guarantee an expert presence that aligns with both Polish regulatory requirements and your operational needs.
Registered Office – Business Address for Official Use
To fulfill local regulator requirements, we provide a registered business address in Poland for official use, including receiving legal notices and maintaining regulatory records. Having a registered office with a stable presence in Poland is essential for compliance and your company’s credibility with clients.
Bank Account Opening Assistance – Support for Operational Financial Needs
We support your company’s operational financial needs by assisting with the opening of a corporate bank account. Given the complexities of setting up accounts for crypto-related ventures, our team offers guidance on selecting the right bank, preparing the necessary documentation, and completing any additional compliance checks to ensure your account setup aligns with both banking standards and MiCA requirements.
Our Process (Step-by-Step)
We start with a complimentary consultation to understand your goals, address initial questions, and discuss our approach. This step helps us align our services with your specific needs and provides an opportunity for you to gauge our expertise in MiCA compliance.
1. Free Consultation
Overview:
We begin with a consultation to assess your business objectives and determine the best approach for obtaining MiCA authorization in Poland. This step helps us structure the licensing process to fit your needs while ensuring full compliance with EU regulations.
2. Document Gathering
Required Documents:
We assist in collecting and verifying the necessary documents for MiCA application submission, ensuring they meet Polish regulatory requirements and MiCA compliance standards:
- Shareholder and Director Information: ID proofs, background checks, and CVs.
- Corporate Documents: Articles of association, shareholder structure, and business plan.
- AML/KYC Documentation: Draft policies aligned with MiCA’s financial crime prevention rules.
- Financial Projections: Required for banking setup and operational structuring.
What to Expect:
Our team ensures all documents are properly formatted and complete, avoiding unnecessary delays in the application process.
3. Company Incorporation
Incorporation Process:
We guide you through every step of setting up your legal entity in Poland:
- Company Name Registration: Verification and registration of your chosen business name.
- Legal Address Setup: Provision of a registered office address in Poland for compliance.
- Corporate Document Finalization: Drafting and submitting articles of association and required business licenses.
Why It’s Important:
A properly structured Polish entity provides the foundation for MiCA registration, allowing your business to expand across the EU under one license.
4. MiCA Registration – CASP Licensing Process
Application Submission:
We handle the entire MiCA application process, ensuring that your business meets all regulatory requirements under the new EU-wide framework.
- Document Preparation: Compiling and submitting all required materials for MiCA authorization.
- Regulatory Review: Direct liaison with Polish and EU financial authorities for compliance approval.
- Approval Notification: We keep you informed throughout the process and guide you on post-approval obligations.
Expected Timeline:
MiCA authorization timelines vary depending on the complexity of the business model and regulatory review periods. We ensure that all applications are submitted accurately and efficiently to avoid unnecessary delays.
5. Compliance Program Setup
AML/KYC Policy Customization:
We develop a comprehensive AML and KYC framework aligned with MiCA’s strict compliance requirements, ensuring that your company meets EU-wide financial regulations.
- Risk Assessment: Identifying compliance risks specific to your business model.
- Policy Development: Creating MiCA-compliant AML/KYC policies.
- Training and Implementation: Educating your team on AML best practices and regulatory requirements.
Internal Controls and Procedures:
We implement internal governance structures to ensure your compliance program remains up-to-date and audit-ready.
6. Hiring a Local Compliance Officer
Local Compliance Officer Role:
We assist in the recruitment and onboarding of a qualified Compliance Officer who will:
- Oversee AML/KYC Implementation: Ensure MiCA-compliant operations.
- Regulatory Communication: Act as the primary point of contact for financial regulators.
- Report Submissions: Handle ongoing compliance reporting obligations.
Why It’s Essential:
A dedicated Compliance Officer strengthens your regulatory standing and ensures ongoing compliance with MiCA regulations.
7. Bank Account Assistance
Account Setup Process:
Given the specific challenges faced by crypto businesses, we provide full support for corporate bank account setup, ensuring smooth financial operations.
- Bank Selection: Recommendations for crypto-friendly financial institutions.
- Documentation Assistance: Preparation of required financial statements and AML policies.
- Application Submission: Handling bank communications and compliance approvals.
Banking Compliance Requirements:
We ensure your banking operations align with MiCA standards, facilitating seamless fiat and crypto transactions.
8. Ongoing Compliance Support
Routine Audits and Reporting:
Our services extend beyond MiCA authorization, providing continuous regulatory support:
- Regular Audits: Ensuring compliance with evolving EU and Polish regulations.
- Mandatory Reporting: Assistance with AML reporting and transaction monitoring.
- Policy Updates: Keeping your compliance framework updated in response to regulatory changes.
Continuous Support:
With our ongoing compliance solutions, your business remains fully compliant and prepared for regulatory inspections across the EU crypto market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a MiCA license?
A MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) license authorizes Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) to operate legally across all 27 EU member states under a harmonized regulatory framework. It replaces national VASP licensing requirements, including those previously issued in Poland.
How long does it take to get a MiCA license in Poland?
The MiCA licensing process varies depending on the complexity of your business model. The typical timeline ranges from a few months, as applications require thorough review by regulatory authorities.
Do I need to visit Poland to obtain a MiCA license?
No, we handle everything remotely. A qualified electronic signature allows you to complete the process from anywhere.
What documents are required for MiCA authorization?
Key documents include:
- Corporate Structure: Shareholder and director details, articles of association
- AML/KYC Policies: Compliance framework aligned with MiCA regulations
- Financial Projections: Supporting documentation for banking and operational planning
Can non-residents apply for a MiCA license in Poland?
Yes, non-residents can establish a Polish entity to apply for MiCA authorization. The entire process can be completed remotely.
How does Poland support businesses seeking MiCA compliance?
Poland offers low operational costs, a skilled workforce, and access to the EU market, making it an attractive base for companies seeking MiCA authorization.
Why should I choose Poland for MiCA licensing?
Poland provides a cost-effective alternative to jurisdictions like Germany or France, with faster setup times and lower compliance costs, while still granting full access to the EU market under MiCA.
Do I need a local compliance officer in Poland?
Yes, MiCA requires CASPs to appoint a Compliance Officer responsible for AML/KYC implementation and regulatory communication. We assist in recruiting a qualified professional for this role.
What happens if regulations change after I obtain my MiCA license?
Our team provides ongoing compliance support, ensuring that your business adapts to any regulatory updates or new MiCA requirements.
Can a MiCA license obtained in Poland support EU-wide operations?
Yes, a MiCA license obtained in Poland allows your business to operate across all 27 EU countries, eliminating the need for separate licenses in multiple jurisdictions.