The UK financial regulatory authority has officially finalized the timeline for the new cryptocurrency licensing regime, marking a significant move for the entire industry.

According to the latest statement from the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), crypto asset service providers (CASPs) will be able to start preparing their application materials as early as this fall. The application window is expected to officially open in September 2026, after which the FCA will set a fixed application period—at least 28 days, but it must end within 28 days before the new regime is launched. Here’s the key point: on October 25, 2027, the new regime will be officially implemented, meaning all companies providing crypto asset services in the UK must obtain explicit authorization from the FCA.

This includes companies currently registered under the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations or payment frameworks. If you have already obtained FCA authorization for other regulated activities, you will need to update your permissions before the new regime takes effect. Another critical point: crypto companies relying on other authorized entities to approve financial promotion activities must now obtain direct authorization from the FCA to continue promoting products in the UK.

The FCA has also set transitional provisions, giving a buffer to companies that miss the application window or are not authorized when the new regime starts—they can continue operating existing products, but launching new products is prohibited. However, note that the approval process for late applicants may be affected, and the FCA does not guarantee they will complete assessments before the new regime takes effect.

In simple terms, if your crypto business involves the UK market, you need to start preparing now, keep an eye on the latest FCA notices, and aim to submit your application as soon as the September 2026 window opens.