Regulation · FCA · 30 JUN 2026
FCA Opens Crypto Authorisation Window: Sept 2026–Feb 2027
The FCA has set a formal application period for crypto firm authorisation running from 30 September 2026 to 28 February 2027. Firms operating in the UK market need to submit within that window or risk losing the ability to continue regulated activity.
The FCA has confirmed that crypto firms must apply for authorisation between 30 September 2026 and 28 February 2027. This window marks the transition away from the existing temporary registration regime toward full regulatory authorisation. Any firm that misses the deadline will face serious questions about its ability to continue operating in the UK. The five-month window is tight given the scope of documentation, fit-and-proper assessments and systems evidence a full FCA application requires. Firms should begin a gap assessment against FCA authorisation criteria immediately. Starting the preparation process now reduces the risk of a rushed or incomplete submission before February 2027.