EU's MiCA Transitional Period Expires: Unlicensed Crypto Firms Must Halt Services

The EU's transitional period for crypto platforms under MiCA has come to an end. On July 1, 2026, companies that did not obtain a license must cease serving European clients, according to ESMA.

During the transition period, which began on December 30, 2024, companies operating under national rules were allowed to continue until July 1, 2026, or until they obtained or were denied a license. After that date, operating without authorization is a violation of EU law.

According to ESMA's register, there are currently 244 authorized crypto service providers in the EU and EEA. Several companies in Italy, France, Malta, and Spain have obtained licenses in recent days.