EMI License in Lithuania

Obtain an Electronic Money Institution License in Lithuania

An EMI License in Lithuania allows a company to issue electronic money, provide payment services, and operate across the European Economic Area (EEA) under EU passporting rights.

Lithuania has become one of the leading fintech jurisdictions in Europe due to its efficient regulator, competitive licensing timeline, and strong banking infrastructure. An EMI licensed in Lithuania can operate throughout the EU once authorized.

Regulatory Authority

Electronic Money Institutions in Lithuania are regulated by the

Bank of Lithuania.

The legal framework is based on:

• EU Electronic Money Directive
• EU Payment Services Directive (PSD2)
• Lithuanian Law on Electronic Money and Electronic Money Institutions
• AML/CFT regulations aligned with EU standards

The regulator is known for its structured application process and fintech-friendly environment.

What an EMI License Allows You to Do

A licensed Electronic Money Institution may:

• Issue electronic money
• Provide payment accounts (IBAN accounts)
• Execute payment transactions
• Issue payment cards
• Provide money remittance services
• Offer merchant acquiring services
• Operate across the EEA under passporting

An EMI license does not allow traditional lending unless separately authorized.

Key Requirements (2026)

Requirement Area	Details
Minimum Capital	EUR 350,000 initial capital requirement
Shareholders	Transparent ownership structure; UBO disclosure required
Management	At least one qualified director; management fit and proper assessment
Local Substance	Operational presence in Lithuania required
AML Compliance	Full AML/KYC framework, MLRO appointment
Safeguarding	Client funds must be safeguarded in segregated accounts

The Bank of Lithuania evaluates business model sustainability, risk management framework, and governance structure during authorization.

Licensing Timeline

Stage	Description
1	Company incorporation in Lithuania
2	Preparation of regulatory documentation
3	Submission of EMI application
4	Regulatory review and Q&A process
5	License decision

Estimated duration: 6–9 months depending on readiness and documentation quality.

Estimated Costs

Component	Estimated Range (EUR)
Share Capital	350,000
Legal and structuring services	40,000 – 90,000
Compliance setup and AML framework	15,000 – 40,000
Operational setup	Variable

Total project budget typically ranges from 80,000 to 150,000 EUR excluding capital.

Banking and Infrastructure

Lithuania has developed a strong fintech ecosystem. Licensed EMIs may:

• Access SEPA payment systems
• Obtain Lithuanian IBAN accounts
• Connect to international correspondent banking partners
• Integrate card schemes such as Visa and Mastercard

Banking access depends on compliance strength and risk profile.

Ongoing Compliance Obligations

Licensed EMIs must:

• Maintain regulatory capital at all times
• Submit periodic regulatory reports
• Undergo audits
• Maintain safeguarding mechanisms
• Comply with AML and risk monitoring obligations

Failure to comply may result in penalties or license revocation.

Why Choose Lithuania for an EMI License?

Lithuania is considered one of the most competitive fintech hubs in Europe because of:

• Clear regulatory framework
• Efficient supervisory communication
• EU passporting rights
• Established fintech ecosystem
• Strong reputation within the EEA

Compared to other EU jurisdictions, Lithuania offers a balance between regulatory credibility and operational efficiency.

FAQ — EMI License in Lithuania (2026)

How long does it take to obtain an EMI license in Lithuania?

Typically 6 to 9 months depending on preparation quality and regulatory review.

Is local presence required?

Yes. Real management presence and operational substance in Lithuania are required.

Can an EMI operate across the EU?

Yes. Once authorized, passporting rights allow services throughout the EEA.

What is the minimum capital requirement?

EUR 350,000 initial capital.

Does an EMI license allow lending?

No. Lending requires a separate license unless structured differently.