UK FCA Opens Crypto Authorization Applications Ahead of 2027 Regime

The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has begun accepting authorization applications from crypto firms as part of its transition to a full regulatory regime. Firms operating in the UK must submit applications by February 28, 2027, with the new rules taking effect on October 25, 2027. Existing firms that apply by the deadline may continue providing services while their applications are under review. The FCA will evaluate applicants based on consumer protection, asset safeguarding, market integrity, and financial resilience. The regulator emphasized that authorization is not automatic and existing registrations will not carry over.