Making a cryptoasset application

From September 30th 2026 to February 28th 2027, UK cryptoasset firm applications for full FCA authorisation will officially open. All firms aiming for day-one authorisation must submit their applications within this window and must be made online through the FCA’s dedicated gateway.

Submitted applications will be reviewed in the order received, and the FCA has said it expects to determine them before the regime goes live. However, per Section 53 of the FSMA 2000 (Cryptoassets) Regulations 2025, a saving provision allows firms already trading to keep operating if a decision remains pending at commencement.

But firms shouldn’t wait until the window opens to start preparing. The FCA has been running a Pre-Application Support Service (PASS), expected to open in July 2026, intended to help firms stress-test their readiness before they file. Such meetings aren’t mandatory, but are strongly encouraged, alongside the provision of well-informed legal advice.