MiCA CASP Licence in Ireland (Central Bank of Ireland)

Ireland is the English-speaking credibility base. As the EU's only large common-law, English-first jurisdiction — and the European home of much of global tech and funds — it appeals to firms that want EU market access without leaving an English-language, common-law environment. Authorisation is granted by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), a regulator with a reputation for thoroughness.

On timing, Ireland exercised its Article 143(3) discretion to shorten the transitional period to 12 months, which closed on 31 December 2025. Existing VASPs that did not move to full CASP authorisation were required to wind down and cease services by then. So, as in Lithuania and Germany, there is no transitional cover left — new applicants apply directly to the CBI for full CASP authorisation.

A CBI CASP licence passports across the EU, and minimum capital follows MiCA's Annex IV classes with the Article 67 own-funds floor. Model Ireland against other jurisdictions in the CASP Jurisdiction Selector & Cost Estimator.

Why operators choose Ireland: English-language and common-law familiarity, a credible regulator, and proximity to the tech and funds ecosystem that already bases itself in Dublin. What to weigh: the CBI is demanding on substance, governance and fitness-and-probity, and there is no transitional window remaining — this suits firms ready to commit to a real Irish presence. Not sure you're in scope? Run the MiCA Exposure Checker first.