Lithuania has officially extended the transition period for crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) to comply with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) until January 1, 2026. This move, approved by the Lithuanian Parliament (Seimas), gives crypto businesses more time to get ready for MiCA’s tough licensing and compliance requirements under the supervision of the Bank of Lithuania.

Why the Extension Matters

The extension was agreed after active dialogue between the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Lithuania and crypto industry stakeholders. The original timeline was too short and the government has given more time to companies to meet the new standards.

Under the new rules, CASPs operating in Lithuania as of December 30, 2024 can continue to operate without MiCA authorization — as long as they submit their licensing applications to the Bank of Lithuania by the new deadline. This approach balances regulatory requirements with the practical reality of businesses adapting to MiCA’s extensive requirements.

The Bank of Lithuania will oversee the licensing, ensuring companies meet standards in capital adequacy, corporate governance and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance. The Financial Crime Investigation Service (FNTT) will supervise financial crime during the transition period.

By extending the transition period, Lithuania confirms its position as a crypto-friendly jurisdiction within the EU, committed to innovation and robust regulatory frameworks.

How AdamSmith.lt Can Help with MiCA Compliance

At AdamSmith.lt, we offer full-service support for companies preparing for MiCA, which sets the same rules for CASPs across the European Union. MiCA requires strict requirements on governance, AML/KYC, capital reserves and client asset protection — all under the supervision of the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA).

We work with companies in Lithuania, Estonia, Poland and the Czech Republic — the main EU hubs where MiCA-compliant CASP licenses will be required. So far we have helped over 1,000 companies get crypto licenses within the EU.

Our team provides:

  • Turnkey documentation packages, including AML/KYC policies, internal risk management frameworks, client asset safeguarding procedures, governance plans and business model documentation.
  • Off-the-shelf solutions that simplify the adaptation process, reduce legal and operational costs and speed up time-to-market.
  • Regulatory expertise based on deep knowledge and extensive experience in international crypto licensing.

Whether you’re a startup or an established crypto provider, AdamSmith.lt will make your MiCA compliance journey smooth, cost-effective and aligned with ESMA and local regulators’ requirements.

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    Other Jurisdictions

    In addition to EU-focused services, we help clients explore other jurisdictions for crypto operations:

    • Panama – Operate without crypto-specific licensing.
    • Seychelles – Offshore structures with minimal direct crypto regulation.
    • Kazakhstan (AIFC) – Clear digital asset rules, USD 500,000 minimum capital and tax benefits until 2066.
    • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) – Crypto exchange, custody and DeFi licenses under the 2022 Virtual Assets Act.
    • Canada – Transparent Money Services Business (MSB) licensing for fast and compliant market entry.

    AdamSmith.lt provides full legal and operational support for clients relocating or expanding to these jurisdictions, ensuring full regulatory compliance and smooth transition.

    Why Choose AdamSmith.lt

    We have dozens of MiCA adaptation projects under our belt, with a library of ready-to-use regulatory documents tailored to national requirements. Our streamlined approach means faster implementation, lower compliance costs and more competitive pricing.

    With AdamSmith.lt as your partner you can navigate the EU’s changing regulatory landscape and global opportunities with confidence — and keep your crypto business competitive, compliant and future-proof.