Thanks to its stable economy, regulatory framework, tech-friendly environment, and strategic location, Poland is one of the top EU hubs for crypto businesses.
If you’re considering launching a crypto venture in Europe, this article will provide a clear, step-by-step breakdown of securing a Poland crypto license in 2025—including costs, compliance tips, and what makes Poland stand out.
Why Poland is an attractive destination for crypto businesses
Getting a crypto license anywhere in the EU lets you operate across all 27 countries, thanks to the EU Regulation 2023/1114 on markets in crypto-assets, known as MiCA regulation.
However, Poland has unique advantages, making it a top choice for crypto entrepreneurs.
Image: Pixabay
Strategic location in the EU
Poland has a large domestic market with over 38 million residents, providing stability against external economic influences. Its economy is stable and growing, giving you significant expansion opportunities.
Poland is also right next to Germany, the EU’s economic powerhouse. This position makes access easier if you’re looking to partner with German companies or tap into Western and Eastern European markets.
Favorable regulatory environment
Poland’s legal system is modern, transparent, and tech-friendly. You can complete most registration and compliance tasks remotely, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Under Polish law and MiCA, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) must follow strict post-licensing rules, including anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, reporting suspicious transactions, and keeping records clean.
While fines are applicable for non-compliance with these rules, this is consistent with EU standards.
Access to a growing crypto market
Poland’s crypto scene is booming. More crypto startups and exchanges are setting up their business here thanks to its location and no-nonsense regulations.
It means you’ll join a growing community with plenty of opportunities to network, hire local talent, and reach customers across Europe.
Overview of the Poland crypto license
The EU’s MICA regulation mandates any crypto asset service provider (CASP) to secure the license. It includes:
- Crypto asset transfer services and exchanging crypto assets
- Custodial and non-custodial wallets and other crypto storage services
- Key management
- Issuing new cryptocurrencies
- Providing crypto market services
- Other types of virtual currency activities and other crypto assets services such as portfolio management, financial advice, and similar
MiCA streamlines compliance by unifying licensing across the EU and raises standards for transparency and accountability.
Key takeaway: A Polish crypto license is mandatory if your company interacts with crypto assets through trading, storage, or advisory services. Non-compliance risks fines, penalties or operational bans.
Benefits of obtaining a crypto license in Poland
Beyond economic strengths, getting a Poland crypto license gives additional advantages to your business.
Increased credibility and trustworthiness
Poland's EU membership and stable economy make investors trust local businesses. Being based in Poland signals that you're serious and reliable, which helps attract funding and partners.
Binance, Transakk, and BoomFi established companies in this country, increasing confidence in Poland's crypto scene.
Access to banking and payment services
Poland's banks and payment systems are modern and tech-friendly. You can handle most transactions online, from opening accounts to moving money, which saves time and cuts paperwork.
However, crypto businesses may face additional scrutiny and documentation requirements when dealing with banks.
Compliance with EU-wide regulations
Following EU laws and MiCA isn't easy. Still, it means your business automatically meets strict AML (anti-money laundering), KYC (know your customer), and CFT (combating the finance of terrorism) standards.
It makes expanding to other countries easier, since most regions consider EU compliance the "gold standard."
Opportunities for business expansion
Poland sits at the crossroads of Europe. You're close to:
- Western markets: Germany, France, and Scandinavia.
- Eastern opportunities: Ukraine, Czechia, and the Baltics.
This central location lets you easily travel, hire talent, or partner with companies across the continent.
The regulatory environment for crypto assets in Poland
Here's what you need to know when opening a crypto company in Poland.
Current regulations for crypto businesses
The MiCA regulation is the primary legal framework for crypto businesses operating across the EU.
While MiCA sets the baseline rules, Poland is developing its national legislation to complement these regulations by addressing local market specifics, such as reporting formats and enforcement mechanisms.
Poland has yet to adopt its anticipated crypto law to implement MiCA and establish a grandfathering period for existing operators.
In the absence of this national framework, the default 18-month grandfathering period provided by MiCA should apply, allowing Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) operating before December 30, 2024, to continue their services until July 1, 2026, without obtaining a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) license.
This is particularly relevant as all current Polish registered VASPs are awaiting clarity, since it is still not possible to apply for MiCA authorization.
Businesses involved in virtual currency activities must register with the Register of Virtual Currencies maintained by the Tax Administration Chamber—a critical step in fulfilling AML/KYC compliance procedures.
Impact of the MiCA regulation on Poland's crypto landscape
MiCA provides legal clarity across the EU's member states, helping companies with a Poland crypto license to operate seamlessly throughout the bloc.
However, businesses must meet minimum capital requirements:
- €50,000 for advisory services
- €125,000 for custodial wallet providers and exchanges
- €150,000 for trading platforms
Additionally, MiCA enforces rigorous anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) protocols, aligned with the AMLD6 (Directive (EU) 2018/1673) and Poland's national AML laws.
Companies must also submit quarterly financial reports and maintain ongoing transaction monitoring systems to detect suspicious activity.
Future regulatory trends and their implications
While it is hard to predict legislation, one thing is sure—the EU tends to tighten compliance standards.
We expect Poland to release their new crypto law soon, so it is best to hire legal experts like Legal Nodes and stay informed to avoid hefty fines.
Taxation of crypto firms in Poland
Unfortunately, Poland is not on the list of countries that don't tax crypto. Here's a breakdown of what to expect.
Image: Pixabay
Corporate tax rates for crypto companies
Companies in Poland, including any cryptocurrency business, pay a 19% corporate tax rate.
However, small or new businesses with yearly gross sales revenue under €2 million can qualify for a reduced 9% corporate income tax rate in their first year.
This incentive helps startups and smaller firms manage costs during their initial growth phase.
Tax treatment of crypto transactions
Profits from crypto transactions are taxed at 19%. Unlike some countries, Poland does not offer tax exemptions for holding crypto long-term.
Whether you sell assets after a week or a decade, the same 19% rate applies to your capital gains.
VAT and other applicable taxes
Poland charges a 23% value-added tax (VAT) on most goods and services, which may apply to specific crypto-related activities.
Additional costs include a 19-20% withholding tax on payments to foreign partners and a 1% tax on legal agreements (like contracts for crypto services).
Employers must also cover social security (19.48-22.14% of gross salaries) and health insurance (9%) for employees.
Why professional advice matters
Poland's rules differ depending on your activities—for example, trading tokens versus mining them.
Partnering with a tax expert familiar with EU and Polish regulations ensures you avoid errors, claim eligible deductions, and stay compliant with evolving laws.
Legal Nodes can help you overcome these challenges.
Contact us today to learn how.
Key steps for the Virtual Asset Service Provider registration
Here's a breakdown of how to get a virtual currency service provider license in Poland.
Preparing your application and documentation
The first and most time-consuming step is gathering all required documents and ensuring compliance with EU anti-money laundering (AML), know-your-customer (KYC), and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) rules.
Essential documents include your company’s:
- Articles of association
- Proof of sufficient capital in a Polish bank account
- A detailed business plan
- Financial statements
- Security and risk management documentation
- Confirmation of clean criminal records for all key personnel
Mistakes or missing paperwork can delay approval, so partnering with local legal experts familiar with Poland’s crypto regulations is highly recommended.
Submitting your application to the relevant authorities
Once your docs are ready, submit your application to the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), the primary regulator for crypto businesses.
The National Bank of Poland and the General Inspector of Financial Information (GIIF)—which oversees AML/CFT compliance—may also review your submission.
These institutions will verify that your business meets technical, financial, and legal standards.
Timeline for approval and licensing
Poland’s licensing process is relatively fast. If your application is complete and compliant, you can register your company and secure a license within two months.
Delays can happen when regulators ask for more information. Working with expert advisors on crypto licenses in Poland helps respond to regulator questions quickly and keeps the process on track.
Post-license compliance obligations
After receiving your license, you must maintain ongoing compliance. It includes updating AML and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) policies, conducting regular KYC checks, and monitoring transactions for suspicious activity.
Strong cybersecurity systems and IT infrastructure are mandatory to protect client assets. You’ll also need to submit periodic audits, report service changes, and resolve customer complaints in line with EU consumer protection laws.
To maintain a crypto company, stay informed about regulatory updates in Poland and the EU, as non-compliance risks fines or license revocation.
Key requirements for obtaining a Poland crypto license
Now, let's get into the specifics of licensing a crypto company in Poland.
Legal requirements
To operate a crypto business, you must first establish a legal entity. Most companies choose a limited liability company (z.o.o. in Polish) registered with the National Court Register (KRS).
Registration requires an electronic signature, which you can get remotely, along with bilingual (Polish and English) documents such as articles of association, a memorandum, and details about directors and shareholders.
Minimum capital requirements
Under the EU’s MiCA rules, crypto businesses must meet minimum capital requirements:
- €50,000 for advisory or portfolio management services
- €125,000 for custodial wallets and centralized crypto exchanges
- €150,000 for trading platforms
If your annual fixed costs exceed these thresholds, you must reserve 25% of those costs as capital. According to MiCA, issuing asset-backed or e-money tokens requires even higher reserves, so it is best to consult a legal expert.
Corporate structure and governance
Your company must appoint at least one EU-resident director (not necessarily Polish) and submit a detailed two-year business plan to regulators.
Technical requirements
Your technical setup must prioritize security and compliance:
- Cybersecurity: Follow the EU’s NIS2 Directive with measures like data encryption, firewalls, and breach response plans. Hire authorized personnel who will handle the data.
- KYC/AML procedures: Automate customer identity checks and transaction monitoring. Hire a dedicated compliance officer to flag suspicious activity.
- Risk management systems: Conduct regular audits and staff training and maintain insurance (e.g., cyber liability coverage).
- DORA compliance: Establish a complete risk management framework, conduct regular digital operational resilience testing, and develop incident response plans to prepare for DORA, which applies from 17 January 2025.
Financial requirements
MiCA mandates that capital reserves come from “own funds”—share capital, profits, or reserves—not loans, client funds, or intangible assets.
Prepare to submit bank statements and financial records proving stability.
While MiCA doesn’t require specific insurance, most businesses need policies like cyber insurance to mitigate risks, crime insurance, or professional indemnity insurance.
Personnel requirements
The directors, compliance officers, and important team members must go through "fit and proper" checks. It means they must show they have the right experience and a clean criminal record.
Background checks verify education, employment history, and any past financial crimes. These standards apply throughout your operation, not just during licensing.
Poland’s crypto licensing process is rigorous but efficient with proper preparation. Work with local legal advisors to navigate MiCA’s rules and avoid delays.
Costs associated with obtaining a Poland crypto license
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Here's what you can expect to pay when applying for a Poland crypto license.
Application fees
Under MiCA regulations, Poland’s crypto licensing fees have increased significantly. The initial application fee is €4,500, with annual contributions starting at €750 and scaling upward based on your company’s revenue.
Legal and consulting fees
The costs for legal and advisory services can differ based on your business’s complexity. While Poland has a streamlined process for digital registration, figuring out the MiCA rules and local laws requires expertise.
Legal advisors working with Legal Nodes are experts in Poland’s regulatory landscape. They can help you avoid delays, clarify ambiguous requirements, and respond promptly to authorities—critical steps to prevent costly mistakes or license denials.
Contact us to receive a preliminary quote for obtaining a crypto license in Poland.
Ongoing compliance costs
Maintaining your license demands continuous investment. Key expenses include:
- Employee training (e.g., AML/KYC certification).
- Cybersecurity upgrades to meet evolving EU standards.
- Minimum capital reserves, which must stay accessible.
- Audits, reporting, and administrative fees.
Costs scale with your business size—larger firms face higher expenses for staffing, audits, and system updates. For example, a crypto exchange might spend significantly more on compliance than a small advisory firm.
Pro tip: Set aside some money for surprise regulatory changes. Poland and the EU often change rules, which could require sudden investments in legal advice or technology. Teaming up with a compliance-focused advisor helps manage these costs over time.
Challenges and considerations for a crypto license in Poland
While Poland has many benefits, it also has some drawbacks to consider before starting a crypto registration process.
Shifting regulatory landscape
While MiCA aims to standardize crypto rules across the EU, its phased implementation creates temporary uncertainty.
Elements of Poland’s older regulations still apply, and the EU continues to update frameworks like AML laws and cybersecurity standards (e.g., the AI Act).
Compliance with AML/CFT regulations
Poland enforces rigorous anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) rules aligned with EU standards.
A single oversight, like failing to report a suspicious transaction, can lead to fines of up to 5-10% of annual turnover or losing your license.
Set aside resources for compliance management systems and hire skilled people to keep everything running smoothly.
Banking relationships for crypto businesses
Despite Poland’s crypto-friendly regulations, many local banks remain hesitant to serve crypto businesses.
While opening a corporate account is possible, you may face restrictions like lower transaction limits or enhanced due diligence checks.
Workarounds include partnering with specialized electronic money institutions or EU-based banks familiar with crypto.
European alternatives for Poland crypto license
Apart from Poland, there are several other countries in the EU where you could start your crypto business.
Lithuania crypto license
Lithuania has a quick licensing process for crypto businesses, often completed in 2 months. The country is known for its fintech-friendly laws, low operational costs, and clear regulatory guidance.
Even though it's smaller than Poland, Lithuania's flexible system is perfect for startups and companies that want to hit the market fast.
Just keep in mind that with new EU AML updates, compliance is getting stricter, so you'll need solid transaction monitoring in place.
Estonia crypto license
A pioneer in digital governance, Estonia provides e-residency programs and fully online company registration. Its crypto framework is well-established, focusing on transparency and innovation (e.g., blockchain voting systems).
Licensing takes 3–5 months, but Estonia enforces strict AML rules and higher capital reserves than MiCA’s minimums. It's ideal for tech-driven businesses that are comfortable with rigorous compliance.
France crypto license
France’s large economy and access to EU financial hubs (e.g., Paris, Frankfurt) make it attractive for scaling businesses. The French crypto license grants credibility with investors and banks, but costs are significantly higher.
The regulatory scrutiny is intense—AMF approvals can take 6+ months. It's best suited for established firms targeting institutional clients or DeFi projects.
Why choose Legal Nodes for your Poland crypto license
Getting a crypto license can feel overwhelming. Legal Nodes makes it simple by offering clear legal advice and hands-on help to get your license fast. Here’s how we can support you.
Legal structuring guidance
We explain the rules and regulations in plain language. Our team breaks down the benefits and challenges of more than 20 jurisdictions, so you know exactly what to expect, and you can make an informed decision on where you need to register.
Fast licensing process
Don’t wait for months. Our partners help you secure your crypto license in just 2 months. We work with experienced boutique law firms and legal professionals who know the system inside out.
Cost-effective services
Legal Nodes is budget-friendly compared to large legal firms. We offer industry expertise and complete support—from company setup and licensing to keeping up with compliance—so you save both time and money while enjoying the same high standards.
Ongoing support with a Virtual Legal Officer
Our Virtual Legal Officer is always available to answer your questions and help prevent problems before they start. With us, you get a dedicated legal advisor whenever you need one.
Full-service help
Beyond the crypto license, we assist with all the extra paperwork. We've got you covered, whether it’s tax reporting, accounting, team agreements, or AML compliance.
Easy to get started
Choose Legal Nodes for a straightforward, fast, and affordable way to get your crypto license. Let us help you navigate the legal maze so you can focus on growing your crypto business.
Conclusion about Poland crypto license
Thanks to its solid economy, tech-savvy crowd, and cost-effective setup, Poland is an exciting entry point to the EU’s crypto scene.
Its strategic location connecting Western and Eastern Europe gives you access to over 36 million people and neighboring economic powerhouses like Germany.
The upcoming MiCA framework makes it even more attractive, allowing businesses to expand across the EU with just one license while taking advantage of Poland’s growing fintech community and modern digital infrastructure.
While figuring out Poland’s regulations and taxes can be tricky, working with Legal Nodes makes it much easier and turns challenges into opportunities.
Our local experts streamline licensing, ensure MiCA compliance, and minimize risks—so you can focus on growth without delays or hidden costs.
Ready to secure your Poland crypto license?
Start with Legal Nodes today and leverage Poland’s strengths to build a future-proof crypto business in the heart of Europe.
FAQs about Poland crypto license
How do you get a crypto license in Poland?
Getting a cryptocurrency license in Poland involves several phases:
- Registering a business in Poland
- Ensuring necessary compliance standards
- Applying for and getting a license from the Polish regulatory body by submitting relevant documents and paying fees
- Remaining compliant with all the applicable EU and Polish laws
Is crypto regulated in Poland?
Poland is an EU member state, and the crypto industry is primarily regulated by EU Regulation 2023/1114 on markets in crypto-assets, also known as MICA. However, local laws and other EU regulations also apply.
How much is a Polish crypto license?
After MICA, you must pay €4,500 to get a crypto license, with annual contributions starting from €750 and scaling with your revenue.However, keep in mind that the actual costs of getting a license can be higher due to a minimum capital requirement, hiring a compliance officer, and other relevant activities in the process.
What is the easiest country to get a crypto license?
El Salvador and Costa Rica are among the easiest jurisdictions to get a crypto license. In the EU, Lithuania, Estonia, Poland and France are all solid choices.
However, the difficulty of getting a license is not the only factor when choosing a crypto-friendly country. Country location, overall financial institutions and reputation play a huge role.
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