Financial and Operational Requirements — Acquiring a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license in Poland for the year 2025

Licensium provides a complete guide to acquiring a cryptocurrency license in Poland, arming you with the necessary information to successfully launch your crypto endeavor. Delve into Poland’s innovative VASP regulatory structure, a prominent force shaping the crypto landscape in 2024, and discover how it can propel your crypto business to unprecedented success.

Poland has emerged as a prominent center for cryptocurrency companies in Europe, distinguished by its efficient licensing procedure, which is significantly faster compared to other European nations. This favorable regulatory environment encourages a diverse ecosystem of cutting-edge crypto and FinTech initiatives, including but not limited to:

  • Cryptocurrency trading venues, including decentralized marketplaces;
  • Bicycle service offerings;
  • Protected care frameworks;
  • The inaugural generation and dissemination of digital currencies or cryptographic tokens.

Securing a banking partnership for a cryptocurrency company operating in Poland is made possible by obtaining a Polish license for cryptocurrency activities.

A Comprehensive Look at Poland’s VASP Legislation

Navigating the key requirements for acquiring a cryptocurrency license within Poland’s regulatory framework

The Polish government, through its Ministry of Finance, is in charge of regulating Virtual Asset Service Providers. Specifically, a dedicated team within the Katowice Tax Administration Chamber is tasked with issuing licenses for cryptocurrency businesses. Furthermore, Poland’s financial watchdog, the General Inspector of Financial Information, ensures compliance with anti-money laundering regulations by regularly inspecting licensed crypto companies.

Following the implementation of the AML Act in 2018, the Polish government has progressively shaped a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency businesses, with key guidance provided by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority’s official statements, a significant one being issued in late 2020.

Obtaining a cryptocurrency license in Poland permits a wide range of activities, spanning the administration of digital currencies, the transfer of traditional money into crypto, and the trading of different cryptocurrencies. Compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and customer due diligence (KYC) standards is required under the 2018 AML Act, a law that largely follows the guidelines set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for this sector.

At the start of 2024, Poland’s government introduced a legislative plan for regulating cryptocurrency businesses, in step with the EU’s broader MiCA framework for crypto assets.

To be granted a cryptocurrency license in Poland, a business entity is required to hold a starting capital of at least 5,000 złoty, a sum approximating 1,200 euros.

Poland’s growing economic strength has become a magnet for the cryptocurrency industry, drawing in major players like Binance, Transakk, BoomFi, and several other notable firms.

Poland’s cryptocurrency industry has seen significant expansion, drawing in businesses that are moving away from regions with tighter regulations, such as Estonia and Lithuania. Poland’s appeal stems from its advantageous financial landscape and less stringent operational requirements, making it a desirable destination for crypto companies. However, it’s crucial to remember that Poland does not currently classify cryptocurrency as official currency.

Remember these three crucial points about Poland’s system for licensing cryptocurrencies:

  • Poland’s Tax Administration Chamber, located in Katowice, is the designated authority for issuing permits related to cryptocurrency operations.
  • This license provides a comprehensive framework for diverse cryptocurrency businesses, serving as a key enabler and accelerator for the expansion of crypto-related initiatives.
  • Poland’s streamlined licensing procedure sets it apart, allowing companies to quickly establish their presence in the market compared to other licensing alternatives.

 

Connect with our experts today.

VASP Licensing in Poland: Key Considerations

Understanding the essentials of obtaining a cryptocurrency license in Poland

Poland’s Ministry of Finance holds the responsibility of overseeing Virtual Assets Services Providers. This oversight is carried out through the Tax Administration Chamber located in Katowice, which, acting on behalf of the Ministry, grants crypto licenses to eligible businesses. Additionally, the General Inspector of Financial Information, Poland’s anti-money laundering authority, monitors licensed companies through inspections, though it does not have the authority to issue licenses.

Since the enactment of the AML Act in 2018, a regulatory structure for cryptocurrency companies has been established and solidified through subsequent pronouncements from the Polish government, including a definitive stance on cryptocurrencies issued by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority in December 2020.

A Polish cryptocurrency license encompasses a variety of operations, including the management of digital assets, the conversion of fiat currency to cryptocurrency, and the exchange of one cryptocurrency for another. Adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations is mandated by the AML Act of 2018, which generally aligns with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations in this domain.

Early in 2024, Poland’s Finance Ministry unveiled a proposed law concerning cryptocurrency licensing, aligning with the European Union’s MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) Regulation.

To obtain a crypto license in Poland, a company must possess a minimum share capital of 5,000 Polish złoty, which equates to roughly €1,200.

Poland’s expanding economy has attracted significant attention from the cryptocurrency sector, with numerous prominent players, including Binance, Transakk, BoomFi, and others, establishing a presence there.

Poland’s crypto sector has experienced significant growth, attracting companies relocating from more stringent regulatory environments like Estonia and Lithuania. This surge is driven by Poland’s more favorable cost structure and operational necessities. Importantly, Poland does not recognize cryptocurrency as legal tender.

Keep these three key takeaways in mind regarding Poland’s cryptocurrency licensing framework:

  • In Poland, the Katowice-based Tax Administration Chamber is responsible for granting cryptocurrency licenses.
  • This license encompasses a wide array of cryptocurrency-based business structures, effectively serving as a catalyst and driver for the growth of crypto ventures.
  • While other licensing options exist, Poland stands out as a nation offering a swift and efficient licensing process, enabling businesses to enter the market rapidly.

Acquiring a cryptocurrency license in Poland involves a structured procedure and a defined timeframe.

Obtaining a cryptocurrency license in Poland: a guide to the procedure and expected duration

Acquiring a cryptocurrency license in Poland is a straightforward and efficient process, boasting a relatively quick turnaround time. It stands out as one of the most expedited pathways within the EU to secure a VASP license, thereby enabling access to banking services for cryptocurrency-related operations.

Establishing a cryptocurrency company in Poland, from initial incorporation to securing the necessary VASP license, typically requires approximately three months. Upon completion of this process, entrepreneurs will possess all the essential documentation to commence the bank onboarding procedure.

Acquiring an existing crypto license company in Poland can significantly reduce the setup time to approximately 6 to 7 weeks.

Obtaining and keeping a Polish license doesn’t necessitate any residency stipulations. Consequently, individuals don’t have to be Polish citizens or residents. A legal address is all that’s required; physical presence in Poland isn’t mandatory. However, if you desire a local office, our services can facilitate that arrangement.

At a minimum, a Polish VASP’s leadership structure requires both a director and an anti-money laundering (AML) specialist. Both these roles necessitate proven expertise in the field or successful completion of AML compliance training specific to Polish regulations.

Acquiring a crypto business license in Poland is a simplified process, characterized by:

  • Establishing a business with a registered office location
  • Acquiring essential details and paperwork from the company’s originators.
  • Creating essential Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and regulatory compliance materials, such as a proposed Risk Matrix and AML operational guidelines.
  • Formal request submitted to Polish regulatory bodies for licensing.
  • Establishing a business banking solution with a financial institution that embraces cryptocurrency.

For a crypto project to launch successfully in Poland, aspiring entrepreneurs will ultimately require the preparation of several essential documents, documentation support for which we can provide.

  • The personal identification of all involved individuals (such as passports, driver’s licenses, or residency verifications) …
  • Information regarding the director and the anti-money laundering officer.
  • A brief verbal overview of the company’s operations.
  • Proof of company formation (for applications involving a pre-established business)
  • Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer guidelines and protocols

Connect with our experts today.

 

Categorizations of permits within Poland

VASP Licensing Variations Across Poland

Acquiring a crypto license in Poland follows a unified procedure, though minor adjustments may occur based on the specific operations the company intends to undertake. While the license encompasses a wide range of permissible activities, applicants are obligated to clearly outline their planned services and operations during the application process.

Essentially, obtaining a Polish crypto license signifies that your company has been officially approved by regulators as meeting the anti-money laundering and know-your-customer (AML/KYC) standards outlined in Poland’s 2018 AML Act.

In Poland, a legally authorized cryptocurrency enterprise is capable of:

  • Offer secure storage solutions for digital currencies.
  • Offer a platform facilitating the conversion of fiat currency into cryptocurrency and vice versa.
  • Offer a platform for swapping different cryptocurrencies for one another.
  • Emit a digital token or cryptocurrency, ensuring compliance with regulations and classification as a legitimate virtual asset, distinct from securities or financial instruments.
  • For additional particulars on specific actions, please schedule a consultation.

A comprehensive guide outlining the procedures for acquiring a VASP license in Poland.

Acquiring a cryptocurrency license in Poland: A comprehensive guide

Securing a cryptocurrency license in Poland follows a clear and consistent procedure, designed to be completed within a relatively short timeframe. This four-stage process, which can be accomplished in as little as two months, involves document preparation, company formation, license application, and the establishment of a corporate bank account.

Let’s break it down step by step:

Phase I: week

SECURING NECESSARY CLIENT MATERIALS TO INITIATE THE PROJECT

Obtaining the necessary documents for your Polish crypto license application is a relatively simple process, with a concise and clear list required for the corporate services provider handling your company’s establishment and registration in Poland.

Prioritizing transparency is crucial, focusing on revealing the participants’ identities and showcasing their competence in handling crypto operations securely.

  • Verification documents from all participants (such as passports, residency confirmations, or driver’s licenses);
  • In certain situations, a background check may be required, specifically a certificate verifying the absence of criminal convictions from the applicant’s current residence.
  • A resume or any document showcasing expertise in handling crypto-related ventures;
  • Anti-money laundering guidelines and practices, adhering to the requirements set forth by the 2018 AML Act.

Phase II: Spanning 1 to 2 weeks

Establishing a Limited Liability Company in Poland

Establishing a cryptocurrency company in Poland commences with the legal structure of a limited liability entity, known in Polish as a “sp.z.o.o.” This designation signifies “spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością,” translating to “company with limited liability.”

  • Registering with the Polish company registry will mark the beginning of a crypto company’s journey in Poland.
  • Due to the use of electronic signatures, the process of forming a company no longer necessitates notarization or Apostille certification for documents;
  • Instead of requiring a physical deposit, the declared share capital suffices. Polish cryptocurrency businesses are mandated to register a share capital minimum of 5,000 PLN, which equates to roughly 1,200 euros in the current year.
  • A Polish cryptocurrency company’s certified corporate documents can be delivered via postal service or electronically as a scan.
  • To operate, the company must have a registered address in Poland, an address we furnish to all our customers as part of our standard offering.

Phase III: Lasting approximately six to eight weeks.

OBTAINING A CRYPTOCURRENCY LICENSE IN POLAND

To operate as a VASP in Poland, entities must register with the Tax Administration Chamber, a division of the Polish Ministry of Finance, located in Katowice. This registration process involves a comprehensive application package exceeding 40 documents, encompassing details about the VASP’s personnel, legal structure, and a thorough outline of their AML Act compliance systems, protocols, and practices. Our firm offers a complete, ready-to-submit solution for our clients navigating this process.

  • The applicant can specify their intention to utilize a reputable KYC software solution, either through a contractual arrangement or by developing their own in-house system.
  • It’s crucial to establish guidelines and protocols for tracking and documenting financial transactions.
  • Equally crucial is showcasing the process by which client risk is evaluated and the procedures for conducting due diligence, or heightened due diligence, at the outset of a professional partnership.

Candidates must prove their capabilities through a background screening and showcase their familiarity with cryptocurrency, either through prior experience or demonstrated knowledge.

PHASE IV: Spanning 2 to 5 weeks

Establishing Business Accounts for Both Business and Consumer Clienteles

Obtaining a crypto license offers significant advantages beyond simply adhering to legal requirements as a VASP. It serves as a powerful testament to a company’s credibility, fostering trust with both individuals and organizations. This enhanced reputation extends to banking institutions, increasing the likelihood of securing corporate accounts for managing company finances and client payment processing.

  • Poland is exploring the option of offering corporate bank accounts specifically designed for cryptocurrency businesses.
  • Furthermore, users are also given the option to establish payment processing accounts.
  • In Poland, obtaining a VASP status is highly recommended for individuals seeking to utilize banking services.
 

Connect with our experts today.

Help center

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Quick answers to questions you may have. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch with us.

    The Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF) regulates and monitors CASP activities to ensure compliance with AML, KYC, and consumer protection standards.

     
    The process typically takes 2-3 months, depending on the complexity of the business model and the application’s completeness.

    Applicants must:

    • Establish a legal entity in Poland.
    • Appoint qualified directors.
    • Meet capital requirements.
    • Implement compliance measures.
    Yes, non-EU residents can apply by incorporating a company in Poland and appointing local representatives.
    No renewal is required, as licenses are granted for an unlimited duration.
    Costs include incorporation fees, regulatory application fees, and legal or consulting expenses. Poland’s fees are competitive compared to other EU jurisdictions.
    Poland offers a robust regulatory framework, low costs, a strategic location, and access to the entire EU market, making it an ideal choice for crypto businesses.
    Yes, Poland actively supports blockchain and cryptocurrency innovation while ensuring compliance with international standards.

    Explore other cryptocurrency license options