Crypto License in Austria

Obtain a Fully Compliant EU Crypto License

A Crypto License in Austria enables cryptocurrency exchanges, wallet providers, token issuers, and blockchain fintech platforms to operate legally across the European Economic Area (EEA). Austria, as an EU member, applies MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation), offering full EU passporting, so licensed companies can serve clients throughout Europe.

Austria is known for regulatory reliability, central location in Europe, and structured compliance processes, making it a top choice for crypto businesses aiming for long-term EU credibility.

This guide covers:

• Licensing scope and permitted activities
• Realistic 2026 costs and capital requirements
• Application steps and timeline
• Legal and compliance obligations
• Banking and operational setup
• FAQ and practical guidance

What Is a Crypto License in Austria?

The Austrian crypto license is a MiCA-compliant authorization for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). Companies holding this license can legally offer:

• Cryptocurrency exchange operations (spot trading and derivatives)
• Brokerage and intermediary services
• Wallet and custody solutions
• Token issuance and management
• Crypto payment processing
• Blockchain fintech solutions

The exact permissions depend on the business model submitted during the FMA licensing process.

Why Austria?

Operators choose Austria because:

• Full EU regulatory compliance under MiCA
• Passporting rights across all EU/EEA countries
• High credibility with banks and investors
• Structured oversight reducing operational risk
• Central European location with strong fintech infrastructure

Austria is ideal for projects seeking legal certainty, investor trust, and EU market access.

Estimated Costs 2026

Regulatory Capital

• Minimum paid-in capital: €125,000–€150,000, depending on services offered

Licensing & Setup

• Advisory and FMA application support: €20,000–€50,000
• AML/KYC policies and internal compliance setup: €10,000–€30,000
• Company formation, corporate documentation, and translations: €5,000–€20,000

Ongoing Costs

• Annual FMA supervision fees: €20,000–€40,000
• Compliance monitoring and audits: €30,000+
• IT infrastructure and cyber-security: depends on scale

Indicative total first-year budget: €160,000–€250,000 (including capital, setup, and compliance costs)

Licensing Process & Timeline

1. Pre-assessment and business model review
2. Austrian company incorporation (S.A. or GmbH) – 2–4 weeks
3. Preparation of compliance documents – 2–3 weeks
4. Submission to the FMA
5. Clarifications and regulator review
6. License issuance

Estimated total duration: 6–11 months depending on readiness and FMA review

Licensing Requirements

Applicants typically provide:

• Company incorporation documents
• Passport copies and proof of address for directors and shareholders
• CVs and professional experience relevant to crypto
• Detailed business plan and financial projections
• AML/KYC policies
• Internal risk management procedures
• IT security plan compliant with EU standards
• Appointment of a compliance officer

Banking & Operational Considerations

• Corporate bank accounts (subject to KYC/AML checks)
• Segregated client funds accounts
• Payment service providers supporting crypto operations
• Digital asset settlement options and e-wallet integration

Bank approval depends on business profile, regulatory compliance, and quality of documentation.

Ongoing Compliance

After licensing, companies must:

• Maintain active AML/KYC procedures
• Keep transaction records and audit logs
• Pay annual regulatory fees
• Renew the license on time
• Notify the FMA of structural or operational changes

Failure to comply may result in fines, restrictions, or license revocation.

Suitable Companies

The Austrian crypto license is ideal for:

• Crypto exchanges and brokerage platforms
• Wallet and custody providers
• Token issuers and blockchain infrastructure projects
• Fintech companies targeting EU clients

It is particularly suitable for businesses seeking full EU recognition and scalable operations.

Comparison with Other Jurisdictions

• Austria (FMA/MiCA): Full EU license, passporting rights, high credibility, structured supervision
• Malta (MFSA): EU license, recognized, slightly lower setup costs
• Lithuania (LB/ECB): EU license, faster processing, lower cost, moderate recognition
• Switzerland (FINMA): Non-EU, high credibility, stricter capital and compliance rules

Austria stands out for EU recognition, strong investor trust, and structured supervision.

FAQ – Crypto License in Austria

Is the Austrian crypto license legal in the EU?

Yes, fully compliant under MiCA and recognized across all EEA countries.

How long does it take to obtain?

6–11 months depending on document readiness and regulator review.

What is the minimum capital requirement?

€125,000–€150,000 depending on services offered.

Can I open a bank account with this license?

It increases credibility, but final approval depends on the bank’s policies.

What are the first-year costs?

€160,000–€250,000 including capital, setup, and compliance.