MiCA created the EU's first comprehensive crypto regulatory framework. Since December 2024, any firm providing crypto asset services in the EU needs CASP authorisation. Cyprus — through CySEC — is a leading jurisdiction, building on its early adoption of crypto regulation.
Services covered
Ten categories: custody, trading platforms, exchange (crypto-to-fiat and crypto-to-crypto), execution, placement, order reception, advice, portfolio management, transfers, and lending/borrowing.
Why Cyprus?
CySEC was among the first EU regulators for crypto. Advantages: EU passporting, competitive costs, 12.5% tax, English-speaking environment with established infrastructure.
Capital
€50,000 for custody/advice, €125,000 for exchange/execution, €150,000 for trading platforms.
Key requirements
Governance comparable to traditional finance. IT security is critical — robust cybersecurity, access controls, penetration testing, and incident response. Specific custody requirements for firms holding client crypto assets.
Timeline
Four to eight months. Professional costs €15,000–€35,000.
Common pitfalls
Inadequate AML frameworks for crypto-specific risks, weak IT security, and underestimating governance requirements versus lighter national regimes.
How Complizoom helps
Our MiCA CASP (Cyprus) packages provide the complete dossier tailored to your crypto services and business model.
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