Talinn, Estonia, November 20th, 2025, Chainwire
Beginning in 2026, the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) will become fully enforceable across the European Union, introducing standardized licensing, AML/CTF requirements, and governance rules for crypto-asset service providers. SBSB FinTech Lawyers has published an expert guide outlining the Top 5 jurisdictions for crypto licensing and business registration in 2026. With the implementation of MiCA and the increasing global scrutiny of digital asset operations, selecting the appropriate jurisdiction is now a critical decision for both crypto startups and established projects.
With over 12 years of experience in crypto and fintech law, SBSB FinTech Lawyers presents a carefully curated list of five key jurisdictions, assessing factors such as licensing complexity, regulatory transparency, cost and registration timelines.
1. European Union (MiCA Regulation)
Starting January 2025, the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation will be fully enforced across the EU. To operate under MiCA, crypto companies must obtain CASP (Crypto Asset Service Provider) status, which requires establishing an EU office, appointing a local director, meeting a minimum capital requirement of €50,000, and complying with strict AML/CFT and IT regulations. MiCA provides access to all 27 EU markets.
2. El Salvador
El Salvador, recognized for its pro-Bitcoin stance, offers BSP and DASP licenses with tax incentives and efficient registration procedures. The country requires a $2,000 minimum capital and a virtual office. The registration process generally takes between 3-6 months.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, located near the EU, offers a cost-effective registration process with minimal capital requirements of approximately $580, a local address, and basic AML policies. The registration can be completed in about 4 months.
4. Seychelles
Seychelles offers a legally recognized framework for crypto services. The jurisdiction requires two directors (one local), a physical office, annual audits, and an annual fee starting at €10,000. This jurisdiction is particularly suitable for exchanges, custody services, or broker-dealer operations.
5. Non-Licensed Jurisdictions (Offshore Countries)
For crypto companies not handling fiat currencies or in the MVP phase, SBSB FinTech Lawyers recommends offshore jurisdictions with no mandatory licensing requirements:
- Panama – offers remote registration (under 1 week), robust privacy laws, and no capital requirement.
- Costa Rica – benefits from a territorial tax system (0% tax on foreign income) and has no audit or reporting obligations.
"MiCA will create a unified regulatory environment across the EU but also introduce higher entry requirements for crypto businesses. Choosing the right jurisdiction helps companies manage costs while ensuring long-term compliance," said Ivan Nevzorov, Acting CEO at SBSB FinTech Lawyers.
About SBSB FinTech Lawyers
SBSB FinTech Lawyers is an international law firm specializing in crypto, fintech, and investment regulation, with over 12 years of experience. The firm offers a full range of legal services across 50+ countries, including regulatory compliance, corporate structuring, and licensing support. SBSB FinTech Lawyers helps clients select optimal jurisdictions and obtain crypto licenses, with a focus on Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The firm also provides jurisdictional analysis, AML/CTF compliance documentation, and post-licensing advisory.
Global Office Network
The firm operates offices in Ukraine, Estonia, the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, and Lithuania. In 2025, SBSB expanded its international presence by opening new offices in the UAE, Costa Rica, Italy, Mauritius, and El Salvador. This global reach allows the team to provide cross-border legal support and localized regulatory insights.
Contact
Ivan Nevzorov
SBSB Fintech Lawyers
office@sb-sb.com