Crypto License Guide 2026 — Panama, Lithuania, Dubai & More | Consulting24

Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a global hub for crypto banking and payment services, offering a regulated environment that balances innovation with investor protection. This post outlines what crypto founders should expect when setting up payment rails in the ADGM. CRYPTO LICENSE GUIDE · 2026 Crypto banking and payment Crypto licensing across 15+ jurisdictions CONSULTING24.CO The Regulatory Framework for Crypto Banking and Payment Services Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets under the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). The framework covers a range of activities including operating a multilateral trading facility, providing custody services, and facilitating crypto payments. For crypto banking and payment rails, the key is the 'Operating a Crypto Asset Business' regime, which requires firms to obtain a Financial Services Permission (FSP). The FSRA distinguishes between different types of cry...

The Netherlands is emerging as a pragmatic hub for crypto banking and payment providers, with a clear regulatory framework that balances innovation and compliance. CRYPTO LICENSE GUIDE · 2026 Crypto banking and payment Crypto licensing across 15+ jurisdictions CONSULTING24.CO The Dutch Crypto Regulatory market The Netherlands has been proactive in regulating crypto services. Since the implementation of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Act (Wwft), crypto exchanges and custodial wallet providers must register with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). This registration is not a license per se but imposes strict AML/CFT obligations, including customer due diligence and transaction monitoring. For companies offering crypto banking and payment services, the Dutch approach focuses on financial integrity rather than full prudential supervision. This means that while you can operate as a registered entity, you may not be able to offer certain banking functions like dep...

Romania is emerging as a competitive jurisdiction for crypto banking and payment services, but founders must handle a licensing regime that is still taking shape under European MiCA rules. CRYPTO LICENSE GUIDE · 2026 Crypto banking and payment Crypto licensing across 15+ jurisdictions CONSULTING24.CO The Current State of Crypto Banking and Payment in Romania Romania has positioned itself as a friendly hub for fintech and crypto innovation. The National Bank of Romania (BNR) and the Financial Supervisory Authority (ASF) have not yet issued a dedicated crypto licence, but the country is transposing the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). MiCA will be fully applicable across the EU by 2026, and Romania is expected to align its local laws accordingly. Until then, crypto businesses operate under general financial regulations, often using e-money or payment institution licences from other EU member states to passport into Romania. For founders looking to offer crypto ba...

As MiCA reshapes EU crypto regulation, Bulgaria emerges as a pragmatic jurisdiction for crypto banking and payment services, offering a balanced approach between innovation and compliance. CRYPTO LICENSE GUIDE · 2026 Crypto banking and payment Crypto licensing across 15+ jurisdictions CONSULTING24.CO The Bulgarian Crypto market Under MiCA Bulgaria, as an EU member state, will fully implement the Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA) by 2026. This means crypto asset service providers (CASPs) in Bulgaria must adhere to the EU's harmonized framework, which sets capital requirements ranging from EUR 50,000 to EUR 150,000 depending on the activities offered. For crypto banking and payment services, the higher tier typically applies, reflecting the increased risk and consumer protection needs. Bulgaria's national legislation is currently being aligned with MiCA. The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) and the Financial Supervision Commission (FSC) are the primary regulators. Whil...