UK FCA opens gateway for regulated cryptoasset activities

On 30 September 2026 the Financial Conduct Authority opened its gateway for firms that want to carry out regulated activities under the UK’s incoming cryptoasset regime. The FCA expects to determine firms’ applications before the new regime commences if they apply before 28 February 2027. The regime commences on 25 October 2027.

Earlier this year, as the Cryptoasset Regulations were being made in Parliament, the FCA announced its timetable for cryptoasset licence applications and confirmed that a five-month application period would be used to smooth transition into the new regime.

Where they are already conducting crypto business, firms that apply during this initial application window will have assurance that they can continue providing cryptoasset services while their application is being assessed, even if the FCA has not determined their application before the regime goes live. The gateway will remain open for crypto applications after this period but these firms may be restricted from taking on new UK business after the regime commences until their application is determined.

Now that the gateway is open, firms can formally submit their applications for authorisation or a variation of existing permission. The FCA previously shared draft versions of its crypto application forms. The final forms are now available through its Connect system.