The UK's Financial Conduct Authority will open the cryptocurrency business licensing channel in September 2026.

Techub News reports that the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced that Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) can apply to enter the UK market starting this fall under the crypto licensing regime. The FCA stated: “The application channel is expected to open in September 2026,” and added that a specific timetable will be confirmed at an appropriate time. The licensing channel will offer a limited application processing window before the new regime is officially implemented, which is expected to take effect on October 25, 2027.

According to the plan, all companies providing regulated crypto asset services in the UK must be authorized under the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA). The FCA specifically clarified that the authorization requirements cover crypto businesses currently registered under the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations (MLRs) and payment-related frameworks. The FCA requires crypto companies to submit applications within a designated window, which will last at least 28 days and must be completed no later than 28 days before the new regime takes effect. Applications submitted during this period are expected to be reviewed before the new regulations come into force. The legislative draft includes “transitional provisions” allowing businesses to continue operating during the application assessment period.