CASP License in Austria
The complete guide to obtaining a CASP license in Austria (MiCA)
Austria is establishing itself as a premier jurisdiction for institutional-grade financial services within the European Union. The country offers a stable regulatory environment and access to a highly sophisticated banking infrastructure. Securing a Crypto-asset service provider (CASP) license in Austria provides your business with immediate global credibility.
The Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation (MiCA) has unified the European digital asset landscape. This framework allows authorized entities to passport their services across the entire European Economic Area (EEA). Austria’s implementation of MiCA through the Financial Market Authority (FMA) is rigorous and detailed.
Quick Facts: CASP License in Austria
| Feature | Details |
| Regulatory body | Financial market authority (FMA) |
| License type | MiCA CASP (Class 1, 2, or 3) |
| Minimum capital | EUR 50,000 to EUR 150,000 |
| Timeline | 6 to 11 months |
| Local substance | Mandatory physical office and local management |
| Passporting | Full rights across all 27 EU member states |
| Legal entity | GmbH (Limited liability company) |
LegalBison assists entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of Austrian corporate law and crypto compliance. Our team ensures that your application meets the high standards expected by the FMA. We provide end-to-end support from company formation to final licensing.
Legal experts in designing solutions for crypto licensing worldwide.
Blockchain enthusiast and expert on cryptocurrency and FinTech related laws.
Regulatory Overview: Crypto Assets Services Provider registration in Austria under MiCA
The MiCA regulation (EU) 2023/1114 represents a milestone in the oversight of digital assets. It replaces the previous national registration regimes with a harmonized licensing system. Austria has fully integrated these rules into its domestic legal system through the MiCA enforcement act (MiCA-VVG).
It replaces the former crypto license framework of Austria.
The Financial Market Authority (FMA) serves as the sole competent supervisor for CASPs in Austria. It oversees the integrity of the market and protects consumers from potential risks. The FMA is known for its professional approach but maintains strict requirements for all applicants.
Transitioning from a Virtual asset service provider (VASP) registration to a CASP license is now mandatory. The grandfathering period for existing Austrian VASPs is limited and requires a proactive application strategy. Failure to secure a CASP license will result in the loss of the right to operate within the EU.
MiCA distinguishes between different categories of digital assets to apply proportionate rules. Asset-referenced tokens (ARTs) aim to maintain a stable value by referencing other values or rights. E-money tokens (EMTs) are crypto-assets intended to be used as a means of exchange.
Other crypto-assets include utility tokens and general cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. Each category carries specific obligations for the issuer and the service provider. Understanding which assets your business handles is the first step in the licensing process.
Proper scoping prevents delays during the FMA review phase. If your business model includes services related to banking licenses in Europe, additional rules may apply. LegalBison helps you define your business model to align with the correct regulatory class.
Key Advantages of an Austrian Crypto License
Austria is among the most beneficial locations for establishing a strong foothold in the European market.
- MiCA compliant CASP license: The Austrian license is a MiCA-compliant CASP license, enabling companies to provide crypto asset services across all 27 EU countries. This eliminates the need to apply for separate licenses in markets like Estonia, Poland, or Malta;
- Enhanced banking relationships: A licensed CASP is recognized as a regulated financial institution by the Austrian authorities. This status makes it significantly easier to open and maintain corporate bank accounts with Tier-1 European banks;
- Premium institutional reputation: The FMA is a highly respected regulator with a thorough vetting process. Holding their approval signals to investors and partners that your firm is safe, stable, and professionally managed;
- Strategic DACH gateway: Austria provides a unique geographic and economic gateway to the German and Swiss markets. You benefit from a jurisdiction that is deeply experienced in complex financial instruments and digital asset technology.
Obtaining a CASP status in Austria means that you have built a credible, trustworthy, and future-proof crypto business, recognized across all 27 Member States through the passporting right. This allows you to scale quickly and expand the global presence of your company.
Testimonials from our many satisfied clients
As a result of the fruitful cooperation with LegalBison, Yellow Card obtained a VASP registration, fast and without any legal complications.
Quick set-up and straightforward process. It was a smooth process, we are happy to have chosen LegalBison as our Partner for incorporations, globally.
LegalBison helped us navigate a space that’s often uncertain and complex, which gave us the confidence to move forward with our project.
Key Requirements for Obtaining a CASP License in Austria
Before applying for the CASP license in Austria, it is crucial that you understand the requirements. You must meet each of the following conditions and stick to a streamlined procedure to obtain your Austrian CASP permit under the supervision of the Financial Market Authority (FMA). LegalBison’s assistance will increase your chances of getting licensed on the first try.
See also: our Guide to MiCA Compliance
Corporate Entity
You must establish a legal entity within the European Union and demonstrate operational readiness in line with MiCA. Only entities registered with a genuine presence are eligible to apply for an Austrian CASP license. The company must have its registered office and its place of effective management within Austria,. The FMA strictly prohibits letterbox structures, meaning your core business decisions and effective management must take place locally.
Share Capital
The capital requirement depends on the services you intend to provide and your designated CASP class. For Class 1 services—which include the reception and transmission of orders, crypto-asset advice, and transfer services—you need 125,000 EUR. For Class 2 services—which include custody, administration, and operating a full trading platform—the requirement is 150,000 EUR. This capital must be fully paid in, and you must be able to demonstrate the lawful source of these own funds to avoid application delays.
Local Presence
You are required to have a real operational presence in Austria where effective management and decision-making capacity take place,. You must appoint at least two fit-and-proper managing directors. Furthermore, you must employ local staff proportionate to your business model to handle key control functions, including a Compliance Officer, a Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), and internal audit.
Fit-and-Proper & Documentation
All members of the management body and shareholders with a qualifying holding (a stake of 10% or more) must pass strict background checks. This includes providing proof of a clean criminal record, specifically confirming the absence of convictions relating to money laundering, terrorist financing, fraud, or offenses affecting their good repute,. You must also submit a comprehensive MiCA application dossier, which includes financial projections, a clear organisational structure, and robust internal policies covering everything from client asset protection to IT security.
Other Requirements
There is no requirement to have held a prior crypto license in another jurisdiction, but the FMA expects a high level of upfront preparedness. You must implement risk-based AML/KYC policies and transaction monitoring procedures tailored to your specific services,. You must also prove that your IT systems, security access protocols, and incident management procedures are highly resilient against cyber threats, as required by the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA).
LegalBison is here to help you navigate through all the incorporation and licensing requirements with ease. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, we make sure that not a single compliance condition is overlooked.
The application process for a CASP license in Austria
The journey to obtaining an Austrian CASP license is a multi-step procedure. Preparation is the most critical phase to ensure a smooth interaction with the FMA. A complete and professional application file reduces the need for subsequent clarification rounds.
Pre-application and scoping
Before submitting a formal application, you must define your business model. This includes identifying the specific services you will offer and the types of assets involved. LegalBison conducts a gap analysis to compare your current status with FMA expectations.
The FMA offers pre-application meetings to discuss the project at an early stage. While these meetings are informal, they provide valuable insight into the regulator’s view. Successful scoping prevents the need for major structural changes later in the process.
Company formation in Austria
You must establish a legal entity in Austria, typically a Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH). The minimum share capital for a GmbH is EUR 35,000, but this does not cover the CASP requirements. You must deposit the full CASP regulatory capital into the corporate bank account.
Company registration in Austria involves a notary and the commercial register. LegalBison manages the entire incorporation process, including the drafting of articles of association. We ensure that the corporate purpose is broad enough to cover all planned crypto activities.
Preparation of the application dossier
The application file is a comprehensive set of documents describing every aspect of the firm. It includes the program of operations, governance arrangements, and IT security protocols. Business continuity plans and complaint-handling procedures are also mandatory.
- Information on the identity of the applicant and its management;
- Evidence of sufficient capital and prudential safeguards;
- Description of the internal control and risk management framework;
- Detailed AML/CFT policies and procedures;
- Documentation regarding the IT systems and security measures.
FMA review and authorization
Once the application is submitted, the FMA has 25 working days to check for completeness. If information is missing, the FMA will issue a request for improvement. Once the file is complete, the formal assessment period of 40 working days begins.
During the assessment, the FMA may request additional information or clarifications. This phase often includes fit and proper interviews with the proposed directors. The FMA will grant or refuse the authorization within five working days of finishing its assessment.
Costs for Austrian CASP licensing
Budgeting for an Austrian CASP license requires consideration of both regulatory and operational costs. Austria is a premium location, and the expenses reflect the quality of the jurisdiction. Each project has unique needs that influence the final investment required.
The costs associated with a CASP license are divided into setup fees and ongoing expenses. FMA application fees are determined by the complexity and scope of the services. The cost of professional legal and compliance support is a vital investment for success.
Initial setup costs include company registration, notary fees, and office rental. Ongoing costs involve the salaries of the local directors and compliance staff. IT security audits and regular financial audits also add to the annual budget.
For a detailed breakdown of costs tailored to your specific project, please contact LegalBison. We provide transparent pricing based on the license class and service volume. Fees for our services are available on request to reflect the custom nature of each application.
Maintenance of the CASP license: Ongoing obligations
Securing a CASP license in Austria implies ongoing compliance to maintain your authorization and continue providing regulated crypto services.
Licensed entities are required to submit regular reports to the FMA, covering financial performance, risk management, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Maintaining adequate capital and liquidity at all times is crucial to ensure operational resilience.
Companies must also keep their systems and processes up-to-date, particularly in relation to cybersecurity and data protection.
Compliance with AML and KYC regulations remains a continuous obligation, with effective measures in place to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. The FMA expects firms to regularly review and update their internal controls to address emerging risks.
Key function holders, such as directors and senior managers, must consistently meet the fit and proper criteria set by the regulator.
Any changes in management or significant business operations must be promptly reported to the FMA. By fulfilling these ongoing obligations, CASPs can safeguard their license in Austria and maintain the trust of clients and regulators alike.
Taxation and withholding obligations for CASPs in Austria
Crypto asset service providers (CASPs) operating in Austria are subject to a comprehensive tax regime. Profits generated from crypto activities are subject to the standard corporate income tax rate of 25%.
In addition, CASPs must comply with withholding tax obligations on certain payments made to clients, as well as other applicable taxes such as value-added tax (VAT) and payroll tax.
Taxation of crypto assets also extends to capital gains tax, which applies to gains realized from the sale or exchange of digital assets.
Companies must ensure accurate record-keeping and timely reporting to meet these obligations under Austrian law. Staying compliant with these requirements is essential to avoid penalties and maintain good standing with tax authorities.
Looking ahead, the introduction of the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) from January 1, 2026, imposed additional reporting duties on CASPs. Under CARF, providers are required to report detailed information about client transactions and holdings to the tax authorities, further enhancing transparency in the crypto sector. By proactively addressing these taxation and withholding obligations, CASPs can operate confidently and responsibly within Austria’s evolving regulatory landscape.
Penalties for non-compliance
Operating without a license or failing to meet MiCA standards carries severe risks. The Austrian MiCA enforcement act (MiCA-VVG) provides the FMA with significant powers. These include the ability to issue fines, suspend operations, and name-and-shame violators.
Administrative fines
Non-compliance with the new Crypto-asset reporting framework (CARF) can trigger penalties. These fines can reach up to EUR 200,000 for reporting failures. More severe violations related to market abuse are punished even more harshly.
Natural persons can be fined up to EUR 5,000,000 for market abuse. For legal entities, fines can reach EUR 15,000,000 or 15% of the total annual turnover. The FMA also has the power to claw back any profits made through illegal activities.
Reputational and operational risks
Beyond financial penalties, a compliance failure can destroy a company’s reputation. The FMA publishes enforcement actions on its official website, which is monitored by banks. A public sanction makes it almost impossible to maintain banking or payment relationships.
Securing your license is only the first step; maintaining it requires constant vigilance. LegalBison offers ongoing support to ensure you stay ahead of MiCA license renewal and compliance requirements. Our experts monitor changes in the regulatory landscape so you can focus on your business.
Common Misconceptions about getting a CASP license in Austria
No, Austria is not a fast-track, “light-touch,” or low-cost jurisdiction.
Austria is not a fast or low-cost option for obtaining a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) license. It is a compliance-focused jurisdiction that is generally chosen by institutional-focused projects seeking regulatory credibility, long-term European Economic Area (EEA) operations, and stable banking alignment. The licensing process involves a detailed supervisory review by the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA) that typically takes 6 to 11 months, and setup costs generally range from €50,000 to €100,000.
No, a remote letterbox company is not sufficient to operate in Austria.
The FMA strictly prohibits “letterbox” structures and requires a high level of genuine local substance. To qualify for a license, a CASP must demonstrate a real operational presence in Austria. This means the entity must have its effective management, real decision-making capacity, and local staff (such as compliance and Anti-Money Laundering officers) physically present in the country. Weak local substance is cited as one of the most common reasons for application delays.
No, Austria doesn’t have a preferential or separate “crypto tax regime” for CASPs.
There is no separate or special crypto tax regime for CASPs in Austria. Crypto-asset service providers are taxed as ordinary businesses, meaning their crypto-related revenues are subject to Austria’s standard corporate income tax rate of 24–25%. Furthermore, CASPs that serve Austrian retail clients carry the additional administrative burden of acting as withholding agents for a 27,5% capital gains tax applied to the crypto profits realized by those individuals.
Costs for Austrian CASP licensing
Budgeting for an Austrian CASP license requires consideration of both regulatory and operational costs. Austria is a premium location, and the expenses reflect the quality of the jurisdiction. Each project has unique needs that influence the final investment required.
The costs associated with a CASP license are divided into setup fees and ongoing expenses. FMA application fees are determined by the complexity and scope of the services. The cost of professional legal and compliance support is a vital investment for success.
Initial setup costs include company registration, notary fees, and office rental. Ongoing costs involve the salaries of the local directors and compliance staff. IT security audits and regular financial audits also add to the annual budget.
For a detailed breakdown of costs tailored to your specific project, please contact LegalBison. We provide transparent pricing based on the license class and service volume. Fees for our services are available on request to reflect the custom nature of each application.
Maintenance of the CASP license: Ongoing obligations
Securing a CASP license in Austria implies ongoing compliance to maintain your authorization and continue providing regulated crypto services.
Licensed entities are required to submit regular reports to the FMA, covering financial performance, risk management, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Maintaining adequate capital and liquidity at all times is crucial to ensure operational resilience.
Companies must also keep their systems and processes up-to-date, particularly in relation to cybersecurity and data protection.
Compliance with AML and KYC regulations remains a continuous obligation, with effective measures in place to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. The FMA expects firms to regularly review and update their internal controls to address emerging risks.
Key function holders, such as directors and senior managers, must consistently meet the fit and proper criteria set by the regulator.
Any changes in management or significant business operations must be promptly reported to the FMA. By fulfilling these ongoing obligations, CASPs can safeguard their license in Austria and maintain the trust of clients and regulators alike.
Taxation and withholding obligations for CASPs in Austria
Crypto asset service providers (CASPs) operating in Austria are subject to a comprehensive tax regime. Profits generated from crypto activities are subject to the standard corporate income tax rate of 25%.
In addition, CASPs must comply with withholding tax obligations on certain payments made to clients, as well as other applicable taxes such as value-added tax (VAT) and payroll tax.
Taxation of crypto assets also extends to capital gains tax, which applies to gains realized from the sale or exchange of digital assets.
Companies must ensure accurate record-keeping and timely reporting to meet these obligations under Austrian law. Staying compliant with these requirements is essential to avoid penalties and maintain good standing with tax authorities.
Looking ahead, the introduction of the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) from January 1, 2026, imposed additional reporting duties on CASPs. Under CARF, providers are required to report detailed information about client transactions and holdings to the tax authorities, further enhancing transparency in the crypto sector. By proactively addressing these taxation and withholding obligations, CASPs can operate confidently and responsibly within Austria’s evolving regulatory landscape.
Penalties for non-compliance
Operating without a license or failing to meet MiCA standards carries severe risks. The Austrian MiCA enforcement act (MiCA-VVG) provides the FMA with significant powers. These include the ability to issue fines, suspend operations, and name-and-shame violators.
Administrative fines
Non-compliance with the new Crypto-asset reporting framework (CARF) can trigger penalties. These fines can reach up to EUR 200,000 for reporting failures. More severe violations related to market abuse are punished even more harshly.
Natural persons can be fined up to EUR 5,000,000 for market abuse. For legal entities, fines can reach EUR 15,000,000 or 15% of the total annual turnover. The FMA also has the power to claw back any profits made through illegal activities.
Reputational and operational risks
Beyond financial penalties, a compliance failure can destroy a company’s reputation. The FMA publishes enforcement actions on its official website, which is monitored by banks. A public sanction makes it almost impossible to maintain banking or payment relationships.
Securing your license is only the first step; maintaining it requires constant vigilance. LegalBison offers ongoing support to ensure you stay ahead of MiCA license renewal and compliance requirements. Our experts monitor changes in the regulatory landscape so you can focus on your business.
Common Misconceptions about getting a CASP license in Austria
No, Austria is not a fast-track, “light-touch,” or low-cost jurisdiction.
Austria is not a fast or low-cost option for obtaining a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) license. It is a compliance-focused jurisdiction that is generally chosen by institutional-focused projects seeking regulatory credibility, long-term European Economic Area (EEA) operations, and stable banking alignment. The licensing process involves a detailed supervisory review by the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA) that typically takes 6 to 11 months, and setup costs generally range from €50,000 to €100,000.
No, a remote letterbox company is not sufficient to operate in Austria.
The FMA strictly prohibits “letterbox” structures and requires a high level of genuine local substance. To qualify for a license, a CASP must demonstrate a real operational presence in Austria. This means the entity must have its effective management, real decision-making capacity, and local staff (such as compliance and Anti-Money Laundering officers) physically present in the country. Weak local substance is cited as one of the most common reasons for application delays.
No, Austria doesn’t have a preferential or separate “crypto tax regime” for CASPs.
There is no separate or special crypto tax regime for CASPs in Austria. Crypto-asset service providers are taxed as ordinary businesses, meaning their crypto-related revenues are subject to Austria’s standard corporate income tax rate of 24–25%. Furthermore, CASPs that serve Austrian retail clients carry the additional administrative burden of acting as withholding agents for a 27,5% capital gains tax applied to the crypto profits realized by those individuals.
FAQ about the crypto license (CASP) in Austria
A CASP license is a formal authorization issued under the EU MiCA regulation. It allows a company to legally provide crypto-asset services such as exchange or custody. In Austria, this license replaces the previous VASP registration system.
The Financial Market Authority (FMA) is the sole regulator for crypto licenses. It is responsible for supervising all CASPs and ensuring compliance with AML laws. The FMA works closely with European bodies like ESMA and the EBA.
The process generally takes between 6 and 11 months from start to finish. This includes the time for company formation, document drafting, and the FMA review. The timeline can vary based on the complexity of the business model.
The minimum capital ranges from EUR 50,000 to EUR 150,000 depending on the services. Class 1 licenses for advisory or order execution require EUR 50,000. Class 3 licenses for custody or trading platforms require EUR 150,000.
You must have a physical office and a genuine operational presence in the country. The company must be managed by at least one director resident in the EU. The number of employees must be sufficient to manage the risks and operations of the firm.
Why choose LegalBison
LegalBison is a leading consultancy specialized in crypto-asset regulation and company formation. We have a deep understanding of the Austrian legal market and the FMA’s expectations. Our approach combines legal precision with an entrepreneurial mindset.
We do not just provide templates; we build your compliance framework from the ground up. Our team handles the heavy lifting of the application process, allowing you to build your product. We bridge the gap between technical innovation and regulatory requirements.
- – Expertise in Austrian GmbH formation and corporate structuring;
- – Proven track record with FMA licensing procedures;
- – Deep knowledge of the introduction to the new MiCA regulation;
- – Access to a network of crypto-friendly banks and payment providers.
Austria is the ideal home for serious, institutional-grade crypto projects. The FMA’s high standards provide a protective moat for compliant businesses. Partnering with LegalBison ensures that your entry into the Austrian market is professional and successful.
Start your CASP application in Austria today. Talk to LegalBison’s crypto compliance experts to secure your future in the European market. We are ready to guide you through every stage of the authorization process.
Legal experts in designing solutions for crypto licensing worldwide.
Blockchain enthusiast and expert on cryptocurrency and FinTech related laws.