Crypto companies operating in the United Kingdom will be able to submit applications under the country’s new cryptoasset regulatory framework from September 30, 2026, according to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
The initial application window is scheduled to remain open until February 28, 2027. The broader regime is due to take effect on October 25, 2027, giving firms a defined period to prepare for the transition to full authorisation.
New framework goes beyond AML registration
The upcoming system will represent a significant change for many businesses currently interacting with the FCA through the UK’s anti-money-laundering registration process. Under the new framework, a wider range of crypto-related activities will fall within the established Financial Services and Markets Act structure.
As a result, eligible businesses will need to obtain FCA authorisation rather than relying solely on registration under the existing cryptoasset AML regime. The regulator has already encouraged firms to begin preparing and has made pre-application support available ahead of the gateway opening.
For exchanges and custodians, the preparation process is expected to cover areas including governance, financial resources, operational resilience, internal controls and the responsibilities of senior managers. Smaller firms may need to decide whether to expand their compliance arrangements, change their services or withdraw from the UK market.
Existing rules remain in place before the launch
The September 30 opening date does not mark the start of the new regulatory requirements. Existing rules will continue to apply while businesses prepare applications and the FCA assesses them.
However, the application gateway will begin the formal transition and should provide a clearer indication of which crypto businesses intend to continue operating under the UK’s future regulatory framework. Once the new regime begins on October 25, 2027, firms conducting activities within the regulated perimeter will require the relevant FCA authorisation.
