MiCA in 2026: Requirements for Cryptocurrency Companies in the EU

What is the MiCA Regulation?

MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) is a pan-European regulation that establishes uniform rules for the crypto-asset market. Its objective is to enhance transparency within the cryptocurrency sector, protect clients, and set common requirements for companies dealing with digital assets within the European Union.

By 2026, compliance with MiCA will become a key requirement for many market participants, including cryptocurrency exchanges, custodial services, brokers, and operators of trading platforms. The specific obligations depend on the nature of the business activities, the company’s structure, and the category of crypto-assets involved.

The regulation also sets out distinct requirements for token issuers, including those issuing asset-referenced tokens (ARTs) and e-money tokens (EMTs).

The CASP License: Who Needs It?

Companies that provide services involving crypto-assets may fall under the category of a CASP (Crypto-Asset Service Provider). Depending on the business model, such services may include the custody of client crypto-assets, the operation of trading platforms, the exchange of crypto-assets for fiat currency or other crypto-assets, and the execution or transmission of client orders.

To conduct regulated activities, a service provider is generally required to obtain authorization under MiCA. The application process involves a review of the company’s corporate structure, its management, shareholders, and ultimate beneficial owners. It also entails an assessment of the company’s financial stability, internal control systems, risk management, and measures for the protection of client assets.

The specific requirements vary based on the services provided. Therefore, before submitting an application, it is essential to clearly define the operations that will be offered to clients.

Key Requirements for Cryptocurrency Businesses in 2026

To obtain authorization and continue operations, companies must establish a governance and management framework that complies with the applicable provisions of MiCA. The following areas are of particular importance:

• Corporate Governance. Executives must possess the requisite professional reputation, knowledge, and experience.
• Protection of Client Assets. Procedures must be in place for the accounting, custody, and segregation of the company’s own funds from client assets, as required by law.
• Internal Control. The company must implement procedures for risk management, complaint handling, and the prevention of conflicts of interest.
• Disclosure of Information. For certain crypto-assets, there are requirements to publish documentation, including a white paper.
• Financial Stability. Applicable requirements regarding own funds and organizational resources must be met.

Additionally, cryptocurrency companies must comply with AML/CFT regulations, requirements for the transfer of crypto-assets, and applicable data protection laws.

Transitional Provisions and Operations in the EU

In 2026, particular attention should be paid to transitional rules. The general transitional period stipulated by MiCA concluded on December 30, 2025; however, for certain pre-existing providers, national transitional provisions may have applied, subject to the timeframes established by the regulation and compliance with specific conditions.

A CASP (Crypto-Asset Service Provider) authorization obtained in one EU member state may allow for the provision of services in other member states via the "passporting" mechanism, provided that the established procedures are followed. Nevertheless, this does not exempt the entity from the requirements of other applicable regulations.

Licensing with IT-OFFSHORE

IT-OFFSHORE assists entrepreneurs with the registration of legal entities abroad, the selection of jurisdictions, the preparation of documentation, and the management of licensing projects. The company’s specialists provide consulting on establishing a cryptocurrency business, structuring corporate entities, and meeting regulatory requirements, helping clients prepare for the launch of their projects in the international market.