Lithuania has rapidly earned a reputation as one of the most progressive jurisdictions in the European Union when it comes to fintech and cryptocurrency regulation.
Over the past decade, the country has transformed itself into a hub for innovative financial services, supported by a robust legal framework, a welcoming business environment, and forward-looking regulators.
As we enter 2025, obtaining a crypto exchange license in Lithuania remains a highly attractive option for businesses that want legitimacy, trust, and scalability.
Why Choose Lithuania for a Crypto License?
When businesses look for crypto-friendly jurisdictions, Lithuania often comes out on top – and with good reason. This small Baltic state has rapidly grown into a key player in the global fintech ecosystem.
One of its strongest advantages is direct access to the European Union market. A license obtained in Lithuania allows companies to operate across all EU member states, offering what is known as “passporting” rights. This means a firm licensed in Lithuania can seamlessly serve clients in countries like Germany, France, and Spain without having to obtain separate approvals.
Another factor driving Lithuania’s popularity is its regulatory clarity. Unlike many jurisdictions where crypto rules remain vague or inconsistent, Lithuania has established a transparent framework that reduces risk for entrepreneurs and reassures investors. Businesses know exactly what is required to comply, and clients can trust that licensed entities are held to strict standards.
The country also stands out for its business-friendly environment. Lithuania consistently ranks high on ease-of-doing-business indexes thanks to its straightforward company incorporation process, low bureaucracy, and competitive tax regime compared to other EU states.
Combined with a skilled, tech-savvy workforce, this has created fertile ground for crypto and fintech innovation. The government has actively supported the sector, investing in infrastructure and encouraging the growth of a strong blockchain ecosystem.
For many businesses, obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania is more than just a compliance step – it is a strategic move that opens the door to long-term success in Europe.
Types of Crypto Activities Covered Under the Lithuania Crypto License
One of the biggest strengths of Lithuania’s framework is that a single license can cover a wide range of crypto activities. This flexibility allows companies to diversify their offerings and adapt as the market evolves.
1. Crypto Exchange Services
Licensed companies can operate exchanges where customers buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies against fiat or other cryptocurrencies. This is ideal for both startups launching innovative exchange models and established players expanding into the EU.
2. Custodian Wallet Services
Security is one of the top concerns for crypto investors. The Lithuania crypto license allows companies to provide custodial wallet services, giving clients peace of mind that their assets are stored securely and in compliance with regulatory standards.
3. Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and Token Services
While ICOs have declined in popularity, tokenized projects continue to grow. Lithuania’s license provides a framework for compliant token offerings, helping issuers avoid regulatory pitfalls.
4. Crypto Payment and Transfer Services
The license also covers crypto payment gateways and remittance services. This allows businesses to support merchants who want to accept crypto or facilitate fast, low-cost international transfers.
This broad coverage ensures that a Lithuania crypto exchange license is suitable for many different business models in the digital asset space.
Lithuania Crypto License Requirements 2025
Securing a license requires businesses to meet specific criteria designed to safeguard clients, prevent financial crime, and ensure operational stability.
1. Company Formation (UAB Structure)
Applicants must form a private limited liability company (UAB) in Lithuania. This is the most common corporate structure, offering flexibility, limited liability, and scalability.
2. Minimum Share Capital
As of 2025, crypto exchange services typically start from €125,000. This capital must be deposited into a Lithuanian bank account before the license is issued.
3. Local Office & Management Presence
Applicants must maintain a registered office in Lithuania and appoint at least one local director. This ensures regulators can effectively oversee operations.
4. AML/CTF Obligations
Lithuania is strict about anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) compliance. Licensed entities must:
- Appoint a qualified compliance officer.
- Establish and maintain AML/KYC procedures.
- Train staff on risk management.
- Report suspicious transactions to the FCIS.
5. Fit and Proper Criteria
All shareholders and directors must pass background checks. Regulators assess their professional competence, integrity, and financial stability.
6. Ongoing Reporting Duties
Even after the license is granted, companies must submit regular compliance reports and undergo audits to ensure continued adherence to regulations.
Meeting these requirements demonstrates commitment to operating a secure and trustworthy business.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Crypto Exchange License in Lithuania
Applying for a crypto exchange license in Lithuania involves several key stages. Here’s the full process:
Step 1: Company Registration
The first step is to incorporate a private limited liability company (UAB) in Lithuania through the Register of Legal Entities, which is managed by the State Enterprise Centre of Registers.
At this stage, you must also open a corporate account with a Lithuanian bank or an electronic money institution (EMI) and deposit the required share capital.
The share capital amount depends on the services you plan to provide, but for crypto exchange services it usually starts from €125,000. This step creates the legal foundation of your business and demonstrates financial stability.
Step 2: Preparation of Documentation
Once the company is registered, you must prepare all the internal policies and documents required for licensing.
These include anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) procedures, a detailed business plan with financial forecasts, and risk management and internal control policies.
All of these documents will be part of your application package submitted to the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS), the main supervisory authority for crypto businesses in Lithuania.
Step 3: Appointment of Key Roles
Lithuanian law requires that licensed crypto companies have appropriate governance. You will need to appoint at least one local director who resides in Lithuania and designate an AML/CTF compliance officer responsible for implementing and overseeing your internal procedures.
These appointments must be officially recorded with the Register of Legal Entities, but the FCIS also reviews the qualifications of the appointed individuals to ensure they meet the “fit and proper” criteria.
Step 4: Submission to the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS)
After your company is established, documents prepared, and key staff appointed, you file your license application with the FCIS. This submission includes your company’s incorporation documents, shareholder and director details, compliance policies, and business plan.
At this point, you are also required to pay government fees associated with the licensing process. The exact amount can vary depending on the services applied for, but paying these fees is mandatory before the FCIS will begin reviewing your application.
Step 5: Review and Approval Period
The FCIS examines the application in detail, a process that usually takes two to three months.
During this period, the authority may request clarifications or additional documents. It is essential to respond quickly and thoroughly to avoid unnecessary delays.
The review ensures your company has the right structures in place to comply with Lithuania’s strict AML/CTF standards and operate transparently within the EU framework.
Step 6: License Issuance and Compliance Activation
Once the FCIS is satisfied with the application, it issues your crypto license. This formally authorizes your company to provide crypto exchange or wallet services in Lithuania and, by extension, across the European Union.
After issuance, you must activate your compliance systems and begin regular reporting to the FCIS.
From this point forward, your company will appear in the official list of licensed crypto service providers, and a Lithuania crypto license search will confirm your regulated status to clients, partners, and investors.
Navigating this licensing journey can feel complex, especially when coordinating between the Register of Legal Entities, local banks, and the Financial Crime Investigation Service.
At Lawhill, we guide you through the entire setup journey. From company incorporation and preparing essential compliance documentation to handling submissions and coordinating directly with the FCIS, we make each step straightforward and stress-free.
Common Issues with Lithuania Crypto License
Although Lithuania is a leading jurisdiction for crypto regulation, many companies encounter obstacles during the licensing process. The most frequent challenges include:
- Incomplete Documentation: Regulators require detailed AML and KYC policies, risk assessments, and internal control procedures. Submitting generic or insufficient documents often leads to requests for revisions and delays in approval.
- Staffing Difficulties: Every licensed company must appoint a local compliance officer with proven experience in AML/CTF. Finding qualified candidates can be challenging, particularly for international companies without a local presence.
- Regulatory Updates: The EU is rolling out new rules under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. These updates bring additional obligations, such as stricter reporting requirements, and companies must adapt quickly to remain compliant.
- Banking Challenges: Some banks in Lithuania are still cautious about working with crypto businesses. Without proper preparation or introductions, opening a corporate account can be time-consuming and difficult.
Regulatory hurdles can slow applications down. That’s why Lawhill steps in early – drafting precise documents, securing qualified compliance officers, monitoring EU requirements, and maintaining strong relationships with banks to keep your process moving.
Benefits of Holding a Lithuania Crypto License
Despite the challenges, the advantages of obtaining a Lithuania crypto license are significant and long-lasting. Key benefits include:
- EU Recognition: A Lithuanian license is valid across the European Economic Area, giving your business credibility in 27 EU countries with a single approval.
- Investor Confidence: Licensed companies demonstrate that they operate under strict regulatory oversight, which increases trust among retail clients, partners, and institutional investors.
- Market Expansion: One license allows you to provide crypto exchange and wallet services across the EU, making it easier to scale your business internationally.
- Long-Term Stability: Lithuania maintains a supportive regulatory environment for fintech and crypto. This balance of innovation and consumer protection creates a stable foundation for sustainable growth.
For entrepreneurs, these benefits make Lithuania one of the most attractive jurisdictions in Europe. By securing a license, your business gains not only compliance but also a competitive edge in building trust and expanding across the EU market.
How Lawhill Helps You Secure a Crypto License in Lithuania
At Lawhill, we combine legal expertise, industry knowledge, and international focus to help clients succeed in Lithuania’s crypto ecosystem.
Our services include:
- Company Formation: Registering your Lithuanian UAB quickly and correctly.
- Regulatory Strategy: Tailored advice on license type, business scope, and compliance.
- Documentation & Policies: Drafting AML/KYC policies, risk management strategies, and business plans.
- Representation: Acting as your liaison with Lithuanian regulators.
- Ongoing Compliance: Ensuring you remain compliant with changing EU regulations.
With our guidance, obtaining a Lithuania crypto exchange license becomes less daunting and more strategic.
Conclusion
Lithuania has proven itself to be a leader in crypto regulation, offering entrepreneurs an attractive blend of clear rules, EU market access, and long-term stability. Obtaining a crypto license in Lithuania in 2025 provides businesses with credibility, investor trust, and the ability to scale internationally.
However, success requires careful planning, understanding of Lithuania crypto license requirements, and expert guidance to avoid common pitfalls.At Lawhill, we specialize in helping international clients navigate every stage of this process, from company formation to license issuance and beyond. If you are ready to secure your Lithuania crypto license, contact us today for a free consultation – and launch your crypto business with confidence.
