Crypto license in Poland

Why choose Poland for your crypto business

Poland stands out as a gateway for crypto entrepreneurs who want to enter the European market. The country combines a stable economy, strategic location, and a rapidly growing technology sector. Operating under the same regulatory standards as the rest of the EU, Poland offers unique benefits:

• EU-wide access: A license obtained in Poland lets you operate across all 27 EU member states under “passporting” rules.
• Cost-effectiveness: Lower operational and registration costs compared to many other Western European countries.
• Business-friendly environment: Modern regulations, straightforward procedures, and a tech-savvy workforce.
• Transparent legal framework: Clear rules and established supervisory authorities help new entrants understand what’s required.

The regulatory landscape: From VASP to CASP

Until the end of 2024, companies could register as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) with a simplified process. Registration required minimum capital, basic anti-money laundering (AML) controls, and routine background checks. This allowed many crypto businesses to enter the market quickly.

However, with the implementation of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), Poland is moving to a unified regime. From December 30, 2024, companies must apply for a CASP (Crypto-Asset Service Provider) license for all regulated crypto activities.

• One unified license: Instead of multiple license types, there is now a single CASP license, covering various crypto services.
• Higher standards: More detailed requirements for compliance, internal controls, and capital.
• Stricter supervision: Ongoing monitoring, reporting, and regular audits.

What does the Polish crypto license cover?

A CASP license in Poland permits you to provide a range of crypto-related services, including:

• Custodial storage and administration of crypto assets (including the management of cryptographic keys)
• Operating a trading platform (crypto exchanges)
• Exchanging cryptocurrencies for fiat
• Exchanging crypto assets among themselves
• Additional services such as crypto portfolio management, consulting, DeFi solutions, and financial advice

You can tailor your CASP application to include one or more of these regulated activities, depending on your business model.

Minimum capital requirements

The minimum capital you need depends on the class of crypto service you plan to offer, as categorized under MiCA:

• Class I: For advisory services or order transmission – minimum EUR 50,000
• Class II: For custodial services or crypto/fiat exchange – minimum EUR 125,000
• Class III: For operating trading platforms – minimum EUR 150,000

These requirements can be met by paying up share capital or, in some cases, providing insurance.

Holding a Polish CASP license means ongoing compliance. Expect:

• Periodic audits
• Regular AML/CFT reporting
• Supervisory checks from the General Inspector of Financial Information (GIIF) and the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF)
• Strict internal protocols for IT security, fraud prevention, data protection, and client asset segregation

Non-compliance risks fines, reputational damage, or loss of license.

Taxation of crypto companies in Poland

There is no special “crypto tax” in Poland. Crypto companies pay standard Polish corporate income tax (CIT) at a flat rate of 19%. Poland has double taxation treaties with over 80 countries, which can help optimize your company’s tax position. VAT rules for crypto transactions are in line with EU regulations.

The transition period: What existing and new businesses need to know

• Existing VASPs: Companies already in the VASP register can keep operating until July 1, 2026, as long as they submit a CASP application and receive confirmation from the regulator.
• New entrants: All registrations after December 30, 2024, must go through the CASP licensing process.
• No more “trial” operations: Businesses cannot operate provisionally with minimum compliance—full authorization and proven internal controls are now mandatory.

Advantages of a Polish crypto license

• Legal proof of compliance with all EU regulations (including MiCA, AMLD, and KYC rules)
• Smooth access to EU banking and financial services
• Greater trust from customers, partners, and investors
• Opportunities to scale and expand to other EU countries without relicensing (“passporting”)
• Cost-effective establishment and operational environment

In Poland, issuing cryptocurrencies and tokens (ICOs, ITOs, STOs) is permitted but regulated based on the asset’s classification:

• Payment tokens: Like BTC, used for payments
• Utility tokens: Provide future access to services
• Security tokens: Grant rights similar to traditional securities (ownership, dividends, etc.)

If your token is considered a financial instrument, you may need additional licenses. Token sales must avoid misleading the public or contravening EU investor protection laws.

Why partner with professional advisors

Navigating the evolving landscape of crypto regulation in Poland and the EU can be challenging. Working with experienced legal and compliance professionals helps:

• Assess which regulations apply to your business model
• Prepare required documentation efficiently
• Manage communications with regulatory authorities
• Build internal control systems that satisfy regulatory expectations

The right support can significantly reduce licensing time, errors, and long-term risks.

Fast facts: Poland’s crypto market at a glance

• 2.5 million crypto users (over 6% of the nation)
• Over 270 locations accepting Bitcoin
• Flat 19% tax rate for individuals and companies
• Over 1,000 crypto companies active prior to MiCA’s entry into force