UK’s FCA Opens Authorisation for Crypto Firms Under New Full Regulatory Regime

FCA regulatory oversight — The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority has opened applications for crypto firms to seek authorisation, bringing the sector under its full regulatory oversight for the first time.

The FCA announced on Wednesday that companies can now apply under a finalized framework, stating the move provides the industry with “clarity and legitimacy.” The new regime, which covers requirements for consumer protection, asset safeguarding, market integrity, and financial resilience, is scheduled to take effect in October 2027.

“The UK’s new crypto regime will give consumers greater protections and firms a clear framework to operate in. Firms can now apply for authorisation and start preparing for regulation,” said Dominic Cashman, the FCA’s director of authorisation.

The development follows the UK’s broader push to legislate digital assets, having recognized crypto as property last year. The FCA’s move places the UK’s regulatory timeline behind the European Union’s MiCA regime, which became applicable in December 2024, and the United States, which passed the GENIUS Act in July 2025.