MiCA CASP authorisation: classes, own funds and the file
Under MiCA, a crypto-asset service provider serving clients in the European Union needs a CASP authorisation. The first choice is not the country: it is the class, because it sets the own funds and the scope.
Published on 3 November 2026 · Jason Pivron, director
The three classes and what they cover
Class 1 covers advice, reception and transmission of orders, execution, placing and management. Class 2 adds custody and exchange within the authorised scope. Class 3 includes operating a crypto-asset trading platform.
The MiCA and CASP page gathers the licences of this family and the box explaining the classes.
Own funds by class
Our catalogue records, for each class, a minimum or one quarter of fixed overheads, whichever is higher:
- Class 1: at least €50,000
- Class 2: at least €125,000
- Class 3: at least €150,000
What the file contains
The authorisation file describes the model, the governance, the MiCA policies — conflicts, complaints, custody, execution, continuity —, the anti-money-laundering framework and operational resilience. We split it into services that can be ordered on their own: readiness assessment, policies and governance, ICT and DORA pack, and Travel Rule compliance for transfers.
A token issuer often has to publish a white paper: token qualification, drafting and preparation for notification.
After authorisation: passport and changes
An authorisation obtained in the home country extends to the other EU countries through a CASP passport, a batch of notifications covered by the provider's own funds. The authorisation is not renewed on a fixed date: it stands until it is withdrawn or surrendered, with ongoing obligations.
Adding a service may change the class: that is an extension of services, which reassesses own funds.
Why prices are on request
Crypto-asset licences are on request: the cost depends on the class, the home country chosen and the services. We do not publish a price that would not survive a review of the model. The quote is firm before signature, government fees included.
Outside the Union, we also build virtual asset service provider files: in Dubai with VARA or in another selected jurisdiction. Nothing here is legal advice: every model is qualified case by case.
Frequently asked questions
Which CASP class should I choose?
It depends on the services: class 1 for advice and orders, class 2 with custody and exchange, class 3 to operate a trading platform.
What own funds does a CASP authorisation require?
According to our catalogue: at least €50,000 in class 1, €125,000 in class 2 and €150,000 in class 3, or one quarter of fixed overheads if higher.
How much does a CASP authorisation cost?
It is on request: the cost depends on the class, the home country and the services. The quote is firm before signature, government fees included.
Is a CASP authorisation valid across the European Union?
Yes, through the CASP passport, a batch of notifications after the home-country authorisation.