Exploring Anjouan Crypto License Types for Your Crypto Venture

While regulations like MiCA in the EU are reshaping the global digital asset landscape, entrepreneurs are actively looking for offshore solutions that masterfully balance corporate efficiency, legitimacy, and reputation. 

Today, one of the primary crypto choices is Anjouan, an autonomous island of the Comoros. 

Apart from its crypto license, the country issues permits for a wide array of FinTech business models. This creates an unprecedented level of flexibility, since entrepreneurs can run multiple legitimate, licensed companies from the same location. 

This article is set to explore the Anjouan International Crypto License, a unified regulatory permit that has already become the gold standard to enable your offshore virtual asset operations. 

The Regulatory Framework: The OFA

The Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (OFA) governs Anjouan’s financial services. Established under the Offshore Finance Authority Act of 2005, the OFA has the autonomous power to regulate gambling, banking, insurance, and, most recently, cryptocurrency. 

The Offshore Finance Authority Act of 2005 gives Anjouan the autonomy to regulate its own financial services independently from the Comoros mainland.

Also read: Best Countries to Establish a Crypto Proprietary Trading Company

Deep Dive: The Anjouan International Crypto License

Unlike many jurisdictions that require businesses to apply for separate licenses for “custody” as opposed to “trading”, Anjouan offers a single, all-encompassing, and comprehensive permit, known as the Anjouan International Crypto License.

Under this single authorization, companies are legally allowed to conduct a wide scope of digital asset services. There is no need to obtain a separate license for each business model included in the scope. The array of permitted activities includes:

• Exchange Operations. Crypto-to-fiat and crypto-to-crypto trading;
• Custodial Services. Safekeeping or management of virtual assets for third parties;
• Token Issuance. Legal operation of Initial Coin Offerings (ICO) and Initial Token Offerings (ITO);
• Liquidity & Trading. Acting as a liquidity provider or operating a full-scale trading platform;
• Crypto CFDs. Issuing and managing Contracts for Difference (CFDs) based on digital assets;
• Mining. The legal operation of cryptocurrency mining facilities.

A major benefit of this license is its flexibility when it comes to business structuring. Entrepreneurs may attach the Anjouan license either to a locally registered IBC (International Business Company) or an entity registered abroad. 

Other Types of Licenses in Anjouan: An Ecosystem & Hybrid Models

The licensing ecosystem of Anjouan is not limited to the crypto permit alone. In case your business model goes beyond just virtual assets and associated activities, you will have to apply for additional licenses. 

As for the scope, Anjouan offers such permits as:

• The Gambling License. Anjouan gambling license is one of the most popular globally for online casinos and sports betting due to its low cost and high speed;
• Banking & Brokerage Licenses. For those looking to operate full-scale offshore banks in Anjouan or Forex brokerages;
• Insurance Licenses. For captive insurance or international insurance firms.

For example, if you strive to register and operate a crypto casino, this is a hybrid business model which requires more than a single license. 

The good news is that, with an experienced legal advisor, double licensing doesn’t mean double trouble. 

LegalBison actively assists entrepreneurs with hybrid companies in obtaining both the Anjouan crypto license and the Anjouan gambling license, and aligning the time frame with their expectations. 

Secure Your Anjouan License

Comparative Advantages

Why register a company in Anjouan? As international regulations tighten, the country remains one of the most permissive spots with a mild business climate and many possibilities for growth. 

Entrepreneurs who want to skip months of waiting for regulatory approvals and relieve the administrative burden will find Anjouan an attractive choice in 2026. 

The license is flexible, and the registration process is as straightforward as it can be. As for the other benefits, the Anjouan crypto license offers:

• Speed of Entry. The licensing process itself takes approximately two weeks. When combined with company registration, a business can be fully operational in about a month;
• Tax Neutrality. Anjouan is a tax haven. There is 0% corporate tax and no VAT on financial services for licensed entities;
• Low Compliance Barriers. While companies are encouraged to maintain high standards, the mandatory AML/KYC enforcement requirements are significantly simpler than those in Tier-1 jurisdictions, making it ideal for startups;
• Banking Access. Because it is a “true license” recognised by international financial institutions, holding an Anjouan license significantly improves a company’s ability to open corporate bank accounts and crypto-friendly accounts.

The speed of licensing is often the primary reason why entrepreneurs apply for the Anjouan license. 

Compared to the 6 to 12 months required for crypto license under MiCA or other Tier-1 jurisdictions, the 2-week Anjouan timeline is a huge strategic advantage, especially in such a competitive domain as crypto.

The Application Process in 4 Simple Steps

Registering for the Anjouan International Crypto License is a swift and streamlined process, especially with a professional legal consultant by your side. The whole procedure can be summarised in four major steps:

1. Corporate Setup. You can register a new International Business Company (IBC) in Anjouan or use an existing entity from another jurisdiction;
2. Documentation. Applicants must provide standard ID documents for directors/shareholders, a technical description of the crypto project, and a drafted AML (Anti-Money Laundering) policy;
3. Application Submission. The OFA reviews the application. With professional assistance, approval rates are high, and rejections are rare;
4. Certification. Once the license is approved and issued, entrepreneurs can move on to securing a bank account in Anjouan or overseas.

Establishing a banking gateway is crucial for a crypto company in Anjouan. The local license is recognised by banking institutions, which makes the process faster and easier compared to other offshore locations. 

With LegalBison’s expertise, entrepreneurs can secure corporate bank accounts fast and without complications. 

Final Word: Is Anjouan Right for You?

For business owners who need to move fast, minimise the tax burden, and secure a license respected by banks, Anjouan presents an unrivalled option. 

In essence, the country provides a stable “middle ground” between lenient offshore locations and the heavy, rigorous oversight of the European Union. 

If you are looking to launch a crypto exchange, a wallet, or a token sale in 2026, the Anjouan International Crypto License offers a short, streamlined, and cost-effective path to long-term legal compliance. 

Speak to an expert from LegalBison for personalized legal advice and the most up-to-date information. Inquire about licensing fees and nuances to be aware of before registering a crypto company or a hybrid model in Anjouan.

With years of experience in the field, LegalBison provides comprehensive consultancy services on regulatory compliance and building a stable and successful FinTech business from the ground up. 

Free Consultation: Talk with LegalBison Crypto Experts

FAQ

What is an Anjouan license?

An Anjouan license is an official regulatory permit issued by the Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (OFA), the body governing financial services for the autonomous island of Anjouan.

• Anjouan International Crypto License: A “gold standard” comprehensive permit that allows companies to conduct a wide range of digital asset services such as exchange operations, custodial services, and token issuance under a single authorization.
• Broad Regulatory Power: Established under the Offshore Finance Authority Act of 2005, the OFA has the power to regulate not only cryptocurrency but also gambling, banking, and insurance independently from the Comoros mainland.

How much does an Anjouan license cost?

The cost of an Anjouan license varies depending on the business model and necessary legal support.

• Crypto License: Prices for the crypto license itself are typically around €5,000, though total setup costs (including company formation and maintenance) can range from €10,000 to over €20,000 depending on the service package.
• Gambling License: This license is highly cost-effective, with initial setup fees typically ranging between €17,000 and €25,000.
• Annual Fees: Renewals for gambling licenses are approximately €13,300 annually, with additional fees for compliance officers (approx. €2,000 per person).

How to get a cryptocurrency license?

The application process for the Anjouan International Crypto License is streamlined into four primary steps:

• Corporate Setup: Register a new International Business Company (IBC) in Anjouan or utilize an existing entity from another jurisdiction.
• Documentation: Provide standard identification for directors and shareholders, a technical description of the project, and a drafted Anti-Money Laundering (AML) policy.
• Application Submission: The OFA reviews the application; with professional legal assistance, approval rates are high.
• Certification: Once issued, the license is recognized by many international financial institutions, aiding in the opening of corporate bank accounts.

What countries have an Anjouan license?

The Anjouan license is issued by the autonomous island of Anjouan, which is part of the Union of the Comoros.

Because it is recognized as a legitimate permit from a World Trade Organization member, it allows companies to operate internationally, though they must still comply with the specific laws of the countries where they offer services.

Restricted Markets: Licensees are generally required to block users from countries where such activities are explicitly banned, such as the USA, Australia, and certain EU countries.

Is the Anjouan gaming license legit?

Yes. The Anjouan gaming license is a fully legal permit provided by an official government agency under the laws of the Comoros Union.

• International Recognition: It is recognized by industry stakeholders, including payment processors, gaming software providers, and financial institutions.
• Regulatory Standards: While the process is faster than in Tier-1 jurisdictions, it still requires strict compliance with AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) regulations to maintain its standing.
• Speed Advantage: It is a popular choice due to its ability to be issued in as little as two weeks, compared to several months in other regions.