Crypto License in Philippines

Obtain a Philippine Crypto License in 2026

The Philippines has become one of the most attractive jurisdictions in Southeast Asia for cryptocurrency and blockchain businesses. With a clear regulatory framework and proactive government support for digital asset adoption, a Philippine crypto license allows companies to operate legally, gain investor trust, and access regional banking and payment systems.

In 2026, crypto businesses in the Philippines must comply with local financial regulations for digital assets, aligning with AML/CFT standards, cybersecurity protocols, and corporate governance requirements. Obtaining a license ensures legal recognition and provides a competitive advantage in the growing Southeast Asian market.

Regulatory Authority and Legal Framework

The primary regulatory authority overseeing crypto operations in the Philippines is the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for investment tokens and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for virtual asset service providers (VASPs).

Licensed crypto businesses must comply with the Virtual Assets and Service Providers Act (VASP Act, 2023 update), which covers:

• Cryptocurrency exchanges
• Custody and wallet services
• Token issuance and advisory services
• Trading platforms and payment solutions
• Cross-border transfer of virtual assets

Companies must demonstrate operational substance, robust internal controls, risk management, and cybersecurity measures before obtaining a Philippine crypto license.

Company Formation and Licensing Requirements

To apply for a crypto license in the Philippines, businesses must:

• Incorporate a legal entity locally (Corporation or Limited Liability Company)
• Appoint qualified management and compliance officers
• Maintain minimum capital depending on the type of service
• Implement comprehensive AML/KYC policies
• Establish internal governance, risk management, and cybersecurity frameworks
• Submit a detailed business plan with financial and operational projections

Philippine regulators emphasize operational presence, including local offices and functional management teams, to ensure ongoing compliance and supervision.

Capital Requirements (2026)

Capital requirements vary based on the type of crypto service offered:

• Token issuance or advisory services: $50,000–$75,000
• Custody or exchange services: $100,000–$200,000
• Full trading platforms and advanced custody operations: $200,000+

Additional reserves may be required for high-volume operations or enterprises offering multiple services. Maintaining adequate capital demonstrates financial stability and credibility to both regulators and clients.

Licensing Timeline

The typical licensing process for a Philippine crypto company involves:

• Company incorporation: 2–4 weeks
• Documentation preparation: 3–6 weeks
• Regulatory review by BSP/SEC: 2–4 months
• Total estimated time: 3–6 months

Proper preparation of corporate documents, business plans, and compliance policies can significantly reduce review time and requests for clarification.

Estimated Costs

First-year costs for operating a Philippine crypto business generally include:

• Government and registration fees: $5,000–$10,000
• Legal and compliance advisory: $20,000–$40,000
• Minimum capital: $50,000–$200,000+
• Office, staff, and operational expenses: $40,000–$100,000

Total first-year budget: $115,000–$350,000+, depending on the scope of services and operational scale.

Compliance and Ongoing Obligations

Licensed crypto companies in the Philippines must maintain:

• Active AML/KYC compliance
• Internal risk management and audit procedures
• Cybersecurity protocols and data protection measures
• Beneficial ownership reporting
• Regular filings with the SEC and BSP

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines, suspension, or revocation of the license.

Banking and Operational Considerations

A Philippine crypto license enhances credibility with:

• Local and regional banking partners
• Payment service providers (PSPs)
• Crypto-friendly financial institutions

Successful banking integration requires transparent ownership structures, verified sources of funds, robust AML/KYC policies, and functional operational presence in the Philippines.

Who Should Consider a Philippine Crypto License?

• Cryptocurrency exchanges targeting Southeast Asia
• Custody and wallet service providers
• Token issuance platforms (TGE/STO)
• Trading platforms and fintech solutions
• Businesses seeking regulatory credibility and investor trust in the Philippines

The Philippines is ideal for companies aiming for regional expansion and operational legal certainty in crypto services.

Advantages of a Philippine Crypto License

Obtaining a crypto license in the Philippines provides:

• Legal regulatory legitimacy in Southeast Asia
• Access to regional banking and payment systems
• Investor and partner confidence
• Operational scalability and security
• Compliance aligned with 2026 AML/KYC standards

Well-structured Philippine crypto companies can balance regulatory compliance with business flexibility, making the jurisdiction a strategic choice for ambitious crypto and fintech projects.

Taxation and Reporting Requirements

Philippine-licensed crypto companies are subject to:

• Corporate income tax on profits derived from crypto operations
• Value-added tax (VAT) on applicable services
• Compliance reporting to BSP and SEC
• Withholding taxes, if applicable for certain transactions or token sales

Maintaining proper accounting and financial records ensures transparency, regulatory compliance, and smooth audits.

Risk Management and Cybersecurity

The Philippine regulators require robust risk management and cybersecurity frameworks, including:

• Secure wallet and custody solutions for client assets
• Regular penetration testing and IT audits
• Data protection policies compliant with Philippine Data Privacy Act
• Incident reporting protocols for breaches or suspicious activity

Strong cybersecurity measures protect client funds, ensure regulatory compliance, and strengthen trust with financial partners.

FAQ — Crypto License in the Philippines 2026

How long does it take to obtain a crypto license in the Philippines?

Typically 3–6 months depending on documentation quality and regulatory review.

What is the minimum capital required?

From $50,000 for advisory services to $200,000+ for full trading platforms and advanced custody operations.

Is local presence required?

Yes, functional offices and local management are mandatory.

What ongoing compliance obligations exist?

AML/KYC, cybersecurity, internal audits, beneficial ownership reporting, and regular filings with BSP and SEC.

Can a Philippine license help access international markets?

Yes, it enhances credibility with regional and global investors, banking institutions, and payment providers.