Cryptocurrency license
in Estonia
For companies that work with cryptocurrency in Estonia,
you need to obtain a special license.
To receive advice from our specialists,
leave your Email below
With the popularity of digital assets soaring, governments across the world are considering how to handle their own digital currency. Many are taking a wait-and-see approach toward digital currencies and their underlying blockchain technology. Others, however, have taken a more proactive stance on digital assets. Crypto service providers in Estonia will soon be able to apply for licenses. The new rules will give crypto companies the ability to conduct business legally in the country and protect them from future legal uncertainties or risks. The government also aims to reduce risks related to money laundering, financing of terrorism and drug trade through these new regulations. Let’s take a closer look at what these new legislation means for crypto service providers operating in Estonia and elsewhere…
What is Estonia’s Stance on Digital Assets?
Estonia is an island nation located between Finland and Russia in the Baltic Sea. It has a population of 1.3 million and is known for its high-tech economy and e-government initiatives, including being the first country to make all of its citizens digital citizens. With this in mind, it’s not surprising that it has taken a proactive stance toward the regulation of digital assets, including cryptocurrency. In 2014, the Estonian government completed a review of its current laws and regulations regarding the use and flow of money. It discovered that there is a need for additional guidelines related to the use of digital money, including virtual currencies. The Estonian government concluded that a comprehensive regulatory framework needs to be created in order to oversee the exchange of digital money between individuals and businesses. It also needs to provide appropriate supervision for the use of digital money. In addition, digital money needs to be integrated into Estonia’s banking and payment systems.
Licensing for Crypto Service Providers
The Estonian government has drafted legislation that would grant crypto services providers the right to apply for a license. This license will be valid throughout the European Union. In order to be eligible for the license, crypto service providers need to meet the following criteria: – Be incorporated in Estonia and have its head office located there as well – Have a capital of at least €10,000 – Have a recognized auditor and a risk manager to oversee compliance and risk management – Have a third-party cyber security system in place to prevent cyberattacks and theft of digital assets
What Are the Requirements for a Crypto Service Provider?
Crypto service providers that want to obtain a license from the government will have to comply with a number of requirements. These include:
– Conduct thorough background and financial checks on users. Crypto service providers must determine if their clients are individuals, businesses or other organizations. Companies must conduct regular updates on the status of clients.
– Use a Know Your Customer (KYC) system to confirm the identity of clients.
– Establish systems to monitor and report suspicious transactions. Crypto service providers also need to report suspicious transactions to government authorities.
– Implement and follow appropriate anti-money laundering guidelines. Crypto service providers must verify the identity of their customers. They must also monitor transactions, keep records and report any suspicious activity.
– Conduct internal audits to determine the overall risk level of the business. They must also hire a third-party auditor to conduct external audits.
Benefits of Granting Licenses for Crypto Service Providers
Estonia will benefit from granting licenses to crypto service providers in a number of ways. First, it will create a safer environment for investors and businesses. Crypto service providers will be required to meet certain regulatory and compliance standards. Second, it will create a more attractive environment for investment. Crypto service providers that obtain licenses will be able to more easily obtain funding from investors. And finally, licensing crypto service providers will provide the government with additional regulatory and oversight powers. This will likely make it easier for authorities to detect and prevent money laundering, fraud and other financial crimes.
Final Words
The government of Estonia has already drafted and begun implementing regulations for crypto service providers. The new regulations will require companies to obtain a license to operate legally in the country. The regulations will also help protect businesses against future legal uncertainties or risks. Additionally, the regulations will help reduce risks related to money laundering, financing of terrorism and drug trade.