Crypto License in Mauritius

Obtain a Mauritius Crypto License in 2026

Mauritius has emerged as one of the most crypto-friendly and regulated jurisdictions in the Indian Ocean region. With clear digital asset regulations, government support for fintech, and alignment with international AML/CFT standards, a Mauritius crypto license allows companies to operate legally, build investor trust, and access regional and international banking systems.

Mauritius offers a flexible regulatory environment for cryptocurrency exchanges, wallet providers, token issuance platforms, and fintech companies seeking global scalability.

Regulatory Authority and Legal Framework

Crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) in Mauritius are regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC). The FSC oversees licensing, registration, and compliance of digital asset businesses, ensuring adherence to:

• Anti-Money Laundering / Counter Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regulations
• Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations
• Mauritius Digital Asset Guidelines (2026)
• Corporate governance and operational requirements

Mauritius emphasizes operational substance, governance transparency, and robust compliance for all licensed operators.

Types of Crypto Licenses

Mauritius provides licenses based on the type of crypto activity. Each license has specific requirements for capital, personnel, and compliance:

1. Advisory License

Scope: Advisory services, consulting, and order transmission for crypto-assets.

Capital Requirements:

• Minimum USD 50,000

Personnel & Compliance:

• Qualified directors and compliance officers
• Clear operational hierarchy and internal audit
• AML/KYC policies aligned with FSC standards

Business Scenario Example:

• A company offering crypto advisory services for institutional investors, without holding client funds.

2. Custody / Exchange License

Scope: Holding, managing, and trading crypto-assets, including wallet operations and exchanges.

Capital Requirements:

• Minimum USD 100,000

Personnel & Compliance:

• Designated compliance and AML officers
• Transaction monitoring and reporting systems
• Internal audit and risk management procedures
• Functional presence in Mauritius

Business Scenario Example:

• A digital wallet provider enabling secure storage of crypto-assets with integrated local and international banking.

3. Trading Platform License

Scope: Operating full-scale trading platforms, including token issuance, order execution, and marketplace operations.

Capital Requirements:

• Minimum USD 200,000+
• Additional reserves depending on operational volume and risk exposure

Personnel & Compliance:

• Management and board oversight
• Cybersecurity and IT monitoring
• AML/KYC compliance and risk management
• Internal audit and governance procedures

Business Scenario Example:

• A cryptocurrency exchange serving institutional and retail clients, offering multi-currency settlements and robust compliance frameworks.

Licensing Timeline

Typical steps for obtaining a Mauritius crypto license:

1. Company formation in Mauritius
2. Preparation of licensing documentation
3. Allocation of required capital
4. Submission to the FSC
5. Regulatory review and feedback

Estimated total timeline: 3–6 months depending on documentation quality and operational readiness.

Compliance and AML/KYC Procedures

Mauritius FSC requires all licensed CASPs to maintain strict compliance systems:

• Client Due Diligence (CDD/KYC): verification of clients, PEP and sanctions checks
• Transaction Monitoring: real-time monitoring for unusual or suspicious activity
• Reporting & Escalation: submission of Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) to FSC
• Internal Governance: appointment of compliance officers, documented procedures, internal audits
• Cybersecurity & IT Controls: secure wallet systems, GDPR-aligned data protection, incident reporting

The FSC focuses on operational substance, risk management, governance, and investor protection.

Estimated Costs

Approximate first-year costs:

• Government and registration fees: USD 5,000–10,000
• Legal and compliance structuring: USD 15,000–40,000
• Initial capital: USD 50,000–200,000+ depending on license type
• Operational expenses (office, audit, reporting): USD 20,000–50,000

Total first-year budget: USD 90,000–300,000+, depending on license type and operational scale.

Comparison with Other Jurisdictions

• Mauritius:
  • Licensing Timeline: 3–6 months
  • Minimum Capital: USD 50,000–200,000+
  • Cost: Medium
  • Transparency / Regulatory Clarity: High, FSC regulated
• Labuan (Malaysia):
  • Timeline: 3–6 months
  • Capital: USD 50,000–200,000+
  • Flexible offshore-like structure
• Finland:
  • Timeline: 4–7 months
  • Capital: €50,000–150,000
  • Strict EU MiCA compliance, strong institutional trust
• Malta:
  • Timeline: 3–6 months
  • Capital: €50,000–150,000+
  • Well-known regulatory brand, EU passporting

Why Choose Mauritius? / Advantages 

• Flexible and clear regulatory framework
• FSC-regulated with strong investor protection
• Access to regional banking and payment infrastructure
• Operational scalability for exchanges, custodians, and trading platforms
• Alignment with international AML/KYC standards

Mauritius is ideal for fintech companies, cryptocurrency exchanges, wallet providers, and token issuance platforms seeking a reliable offshore hub with strong compliance.

FAQ — Crypto License in Mauritius 2026

How long does it take to get a license?

3–6 months depending on documentation and FSC review.

What is the minimum capital?

From USD 50,000 for advisory to USD 200,000+ for trading platforms.

Is local presence required?

Yes, functional management in Mauritius is expected.

Can the license operate across borders?

While primarily regional, it increases credibility with international partners and banks.

What compliance obligations exist?

AML/KYC, internal audits, transaction monitoring, cybersecurity, and regular FSC reporting.