Obtaining a Crypto License in Poland

On November 1, 2021, Poland, following Estonia and Lithuania, introduced state regulation of entrepreneurship in the field of cryptocurrencies. By amending the anti-money laundering law, the government is seeking to prevent the use of virtual currency for criminal activities and increase the level of protection for consumers of cryptocurrency companies’ services.

Please note! Poland is an attractive jurisdiction for starting a virtual currency business. The signed bilateral agreements on the avoidance of double taxation between Poland and more than 84 countries of the world make the jurisdiction one of the most favorable in terms of taxation. Now that the dots on the “i” in the legislative regulation of the cryptocurrency business have been dotted, a crypto company in Poland is a promising European platform that can be scaled at will.

A team of international law experts Lawrange is constantly monitoring virtual currency regulations and is continually exploring new jurisdictions in order to be able to offer clients working solutions, including – on company registration, taxation of transactions with virtual assets and business in general. If you decide to start a crypto business in Poland, please contact us – we will provide you with all the assistance you need!

Legislative Changes in Cryptocurrency Regulation in Poland

Polish legislation is undergoing a stage of profound transformation associated with the transition to a pan-European model of crypto market oversight. The country is building an updated regulatory system aimed at legal certainty, uniform standards, and transparent conditions for industry participants. The national regulatory framework is being adjusted with consideration of transitional mechanisms and a gradual phasing out of temporary admission forms.

Market oversight is concentrated within a centralized supervisory approach. The main focus is shifting to actual compliance with operational requirements, the resilience of internal processes, and proper interaction with clients.

Key changes that have already occurred or are in the process of implementation include:

• the application of the MiCA regulation as the basic source of pan-European rules for the crypto market;
• establishing the CASP license as a mandatory admission format for cryptocurrency services;
• termination of new applications to the VASP register from the end of 2024;
• maintaining a transitional regime for previously registered operators, provided established conditions are met;
• extension of the transitional period until July 1, 2026, for certain interpretations, provided documents are submitted on time;
• gradual elimination of temporary market access mechanisms;
• Strengthening requirements for financial monitoring and risk management;
• concentration of supervisory and licensing powers within the financial regulator KNF;
• regulatory codification of operations with virtual assets;
• formation of a unified approach to controlling cross-border processes and liability for violations.

Under these conditions, licensing becomes a fundamental basis for companies focused on sustainable business in the crypto sphere. The updated model emphasizes user protection, transparent asset management, and compliance with established standards.

As a result, the market receives an orderly legal framework within which legal digital operations are integrated into the EU financial system under clear and predictable conditions.

Reduction of the Limit on Anonymous Cryptocurrency Transactions

According to the innovations of the Anti-Money Laundering Regulation (AMLR), adopted by the committees of the European Union in March 2024, anonymous cryptocurrency transactions exceeding 3,000 euros are prohibited.

In addition, countries may separately regulate transaction limits. A key requirement of the new policy is the widespread integration of the Know Your Client (KYC) tool into all processes related to crypto assets.

Accordingly, violators of the limits may face fines, the amounts of which can be either capped if the transaction size is below a certain threshold, or calculated as a percentage of the unlawfully obtained profit.

Advantages of Obtaining a Crypto License in Poland

A crypto license in Poland can become a profitable acquisition for a business for several reasons:

• Legal security. The license provides legal protection for the business, allowing it to avoid potential legal issues.
• Access to the European market. Poland is part of the European Union, enabling licensed companies to operate and expand to other EU markets.
• Client trust. Having a license increases trust from clients and partners, which can boost business volume.
• Competitive advantages. Licensed companies may have an edge over unlicensed competitors, especially in the eyes of investors.
• Regulation and control. The license implies compliance with standards, contributing to safer and more transparent operations.
• Government support. Poland actively develops its crypto industry, providing access to additional government support programs.
• Taxation. The possibility of benefiting from favorable taxation for crypto companies, which can reduce overall costs.
• Infrastructure and resources. Poland offers a developed financial infrastructure and access to various resources for crypto businesses.

But this is far from all. Consider the additional advantages that a cryptocurrency exchange license in Poland provides to entrepreneurs.

Favorable Regulation

A crypto license in Poland takes into account the modern and therefore relevant legislative framework of the EU and Poland. Entrepreneurs focusing on crypto activities gain access to a high-quality legal framework.

Yes, it is associated with business restrictions and a large amount of documentation, but at the same time it guarantees fair business regulation, legal protection, and maximum opportunities — for example, for scaling the brand’s operations beyond the country.

Conducting Business in the EU

Operations with virtual currencies are directly regulated by pan-European law. Thanks to this, the legislation allows company owners to enter the markets of neighboring countries without obstacles. An official CASP license in Poland serves as a universal key for project development.

This factor opens exceptional horizons for business representatives:

• The application of a “single passport” to provide services in any of the 27 member states of the Union.
• Legal servicing of clients throughout Europe without local registration in each region.
• Direct access to the unified financial system for managing digital asset flows.

Obtaining authorization in this jurisdiction eliminates unnecessary bureaucracy and significantly accelerates expansion. A crypto license obtained in Poland is recognized by all regulators of the Union, making scaling as simple and transparent as possible.

Tax Benefits

Obtaining a crypto license in Poland means activating your operations in the region under conditions better than for other business segments.

For example, crypto companies receive certain booster support from the government and slightly reduced tax rates. Moreover, the corporate income tax (CIT) rate is 9% for small enterprises, which is significantly lower than the standard rate of 19%. VAT is completely absent.

Startups can also exclude taxation for the first 12 months of operation, thereby receiving more favorable conditions for brand development.

Access to the Financial System

A crypto license in Poland allows working with local banks even for non-residents of the country. Opening corporate and personal accounts can be one of the significant advantages for foreign entrepreneurs.

Incidentally, the jurisdiction’s financial system is closely integrated with that of the EU, which means the following:

• Compliance with banking secrecy.
• Protection of funds and personal information.
• Favorable conditions for business lending.
• The ability to perform multi-currency transactions.
• Settlements with all EU member states.

Accordingly, the entrepreneur receives better conditions for business development and income generation.

Types of Activities for Crypto Companies in Poland

A cryptocurrency license in Poland opens up opportunities for entrepreneurs to operate in more than a dozen directions. For example:

• Cryptocurrency exchange. Providing services for exchanging cryptocurrencies for fiat money and vice versa.
• Cryptographic wallets. Development and provision of digital wallets for storing, sending, and receiving cryptocurrencies.
• Crypto exchanges. Operations on platforms for trading cryptocurrencies, including centralized and decentralized exchanges.
• Cryptocurrency mining. Mining cryptocurrencies using computational power.
• ICO and STO. Conducting Initial Coin Offerings (ICO) and Security Token Offerings (STO) to attract investments.
• Consulting services. Providing advisory services for businesses on blockchain technologies and cryptocurrencies.
• Software development. Creating software for blockchain projects, including platforms and applications.
• Crypto investments. Managing investments in cryptocurrencies and related assets, as well as creating investment funds.
• Payment for goods and services in cryptocurrency. Providing platforms for settlements between consumers and sellers using cryptocurrencies.
• Education and training. Conducting training programs and courses on blockchain technologies and cryptocurrencies.

Startups engaged in Research and Development (R&D) activities using blockchain technologies can also be highlighted separately.

Requirements for Obtaining a Crypto License in Poland

Obtaining a cryptocurrency license in Poland has enough advantages to be the focus for both new and existing market players. However, the rule also applies that these significant opportunities are not available to everyone who wishes to obtain them.

Therefore, at the legislative level, the jurisdiction has a number of requirements, without meeting which access to the market will remain closed. Some of them include:

• Company registration. It is necessary to register a company in Poland and obtain the corresponding legal entity status, address, and registry entry.
• Capital. Companies must have a minimum share capital, which is determined depending on the type of activity. For example, for cryptocurrency operations, it ranges from €50,000 to €150,000 depending on the type of service.
• Documents. Submission of a complete package of documents, including:

• • Company charter.
  • Certificate of registration.
  • Financial statements.
  • Business activity plans.

• Compliance with AML/KYC. Companies are required to implement Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Client (KYC) procedures to identify and verify their clients.
• Technical requirements. The presence of a reliable information system for processing transactions as well as protecting client data.
• Verification of funds sources. Companies must provide information about the origin of funds used in operations.
• License from the financial regulator. It is necessary to obtain a license from the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), which regulates financial services and the cryptocurrency market.
• Insurance. Some companies may be required to have liability insurance to protect clients.
• Compliance with legislation. Companies must follow all current laws and regulations regarding cryptocurrency activities in Poland.

Let us consider some of these requirements in more detail.

Minimum Share Capital

A cryptocurrency license in Poland is issued only on the condition of having a strictly established amount of own funds. The amount varies depending on the chosen direction:

• €50,000 – for providing consulting services;
• €125,000 – for custodial services and operation of exchange platforms;
• €150,000 – for launching a full-scale trading platform.

These assets must be constantly maintained on the company’s balance sheet and have a legal origin, confirmed to the regulator.

Presence of Office and Personnel in Poland

One of the directors, a key shareholder (50% + 1 share), and the senior management team must have resident status in the jurisdiction. It is also necessary to rent or purchase real estate that can be designated as the office and the physical registration address of the brand.

Electronic Signature and Trusted Profile

The company must have its own electronic signature (e-signature) and an unblemished reputation, as must its owner and co-founders. Accordingly, applicants for the license undergo thorough checks of personal and professional activity over a certain period.

Compliance with AML/KYC Requirements

Two concepts are currently on the agenda of European policy. AML, or Anti-Money Laundering, prevents shadow transactions and tax evasion. KYC prevents the use of finances for illegal activities. Entrepreneurs must conduct honest operations within these concepts if they require a Polish crypto license.

Registration in the Registry of Companies Engaged in Cryptocurrency Activities

Since 2024, a new law regulating enterprise crypto activity has come into force. The procedure has now been somewhat simplified, and a fully defined framework has been introduced. Businesses are required to obtain a license through KNF, confirm compliance with AML/KYC policies, and operate within the law.

Requirements for Individuals Planning Cryptocurrency Activities

According to the innovations of the “AML Act,” effective from November 1, 2021, there are two main requirements:

No criminal record

Directors and beneficial owners of a cryptocurrency company in Poland must prove the absence of convictions in the following types of crimes: tax offenses, offenses related to activities of government authorities and local governments, offenses against justice, document authenticity, free economic turnover, property interests, and cash circulation. Relevant individuals must provide a certificate issued by law enforcement authorities.

Competence and reputation

Individuals intending to operate in the field of virtual currencies must have knowledge or experience in this area. This requirement can be met in two ways:

• completing training or a course covering legal and practical issues related to virtual currency activities;
• conducting activities in the field of virtual currencies for at least one year, confirmed by appropriate documents.

Taxation in Poland

Proper allocation of tax obligations becomes fundamental for the successful implementation of a fintech project. A cryptocurrency license in Poland sets the standard CIT rate at 19%, but for small organizations whose business is at the start, a reduced 9% rate can be applied if income limits are observed. When working with digital assets, individuals are also taxed with a fixed PIT rate of 19%.

Key fiscal aspects in the jurisdictions:

• No VAT on digital currency exchange services.
• Mandatory annual submission of PIT-38 even in the absence of profit.
• Civil law transaction tax (PCC) is generally not applied to token trading on exchanges.

Accurate accounting is critically important, as regulatory authorities have tools for instant transaction audits. A valid cryptocurrency exchange license in Poland obliges market participants to ensure regular monitoring of each operation within their professional activities.

Taxation of Virtual Currency Transactions

Crypto-to-crypto exchange in the country is generally not a taxable event if no economic gain is recorded in the transaction. Tax liability arises only when selling digital assets for fiat or using them to pay for goods and services.

Important clarifications:

• Losses from this activity can be carried forward for 5 years.
• Documented expenses for acquiring crypto assets are considered to reduce the tax base.
• The regulator and tax authorities may request information on transactions during audits, and obtaining a crypto license requires implementing accounting and reporting systems that comply with KAS and European directives.

Each director is obliged to implement automated cost accounting. A timely issued license ensures transaction transparency and reduces the risk of claims from fiscal authorities.

Required Documents for Registering a Crypto Company in Poland

To successfully pass verification, the document package must be flawless. Obtaining a license requires confirming the legality of fund origins and the high qualification of management. The legislation requires full disclosure of the structure of beneficiaries.

Documents that must be prepared:

• Articles of association of the company (Sp. z o.o. or S.A.) and an excerpt from the KRS court register.
• Documentary proof of minimum capital (€50,000 to €150,000).
• Certificates of no criminal record for each director and shareholder.
• Detailed description of the technical infrastructure for storing and transferring assets.
• A 3-year business plan with financial forecasts.

All documents must be translated into Polish by a sworn translator. Professional legal services help minimize delays at the stage of obtaining a cryptocurrency activity license in Poland.

Stages of Obtaining a Crypto License in Poland

1. Preparation and submission of documents for registration of a company in Poland

The service fees of AA Lawrange include not only company registration in Poland but also:

• preparing documents for remote registration;
• two electronic signatures (an EDS will be required for each of the founders / directors, an additional EDS – 250 euros).
• payment of all state fees associated with the registration of a legal entity;
• preparation of initial declarations to the tax office and to the register of beneficiaries;
• service of renting a legal address and mailbox for 1 year.

***Note: Remote receipt of an EDS is possible through certification at the Polish consulate of the signature.

2. Obtaining a Polish tax number PESEL

A Polish tax number is required to submit an electronic application via the government services platform ePUAP.

For remote obtaining of PESEL, the procedure includes:

• translation of a certified copy of the director’s passport with an apostille (if the document is certified by a foreign notary, not at a Polish consulate) – carried out in Poland;
• courier delivery of the document confirming the receipt of the PESEL number to the client.

The timeframe for obtaining PESEL is up to 30 days from the moment the client provides the original documents and translations.

Next, it is necessary to visit the Polish consulate to activate ePUAP. You should bring your international passport and confirmation of the PESEL number. Upon activation, we submit the registration application to the Register of Companies Operating in the Field of Cryptocurrencies.

In the case of a personal visit to Poland, obtaining the PESEL tax number is significantly faster and takes only one business day.

3. Entering the Company into the Register of Organizations Operating in the Field of Cryptocurrencies

At this stage, the following steps are carried out:

• preparation of documents for entering the company into the register of organizations operating in the field of cryptocurrencies;
• payment of state fees related to this;
• completion of the AML procedure in Polish.

The timeframe for entering a crypto company into the register is 14 days from the moment the director signs the application via ePUAP. In case of questions from the registrar, this period may be extended by another 14 days from the moment the registrar sends a letter to the client’s ePUAP mailbox.

4. Submission of an Application for a Crypto License

You must contact KNF to submit an application for a crypto license. This can be done independently by contacting one of the offices, online via the website, or through trusted representatives, such as Lawrange experts.

5. Opening a Bank Account

Opening an account in Poland is one of the mandatory conditions for obtaining a crypto license. Accordingly, you will need a PESEL, funds to cover fees and account maintenance, and initial capital with a confirmed source of origin.

6. Obtaining the Crypto License

The final stage is the actual issuance of the license to the entrepreneur. This is the starting point for cryptocurrency activities in Poland and the EU.

Timeframes for Obtaining a Cryptocurrency License in Poland

The duration of procedures has significantly increased due to the complexity of the MiCA regulation. A crypto license in Poland requires time for thorough verification of all security systems and compliance.

Approximate timeframes:

• Company formation and obtaining tax numbers: 2–4 weeks;
• Preparation of internal regulations for specific assets: 2–6 weeks;
• Review of the application by KNF and additional requests: 3–6 months;
• Technical launch and integration with banking partners: depends on system readiness and agreements.

On average, the process takes from 3 months to half a year. We recommend planning the obtaining of a cryptocurrency license in Poland in advance, taking into account possible queues at the regulator.

Cost of Obtaining a Cryptocurrency License in Poland

The project budget in this jurisdiction depends on the chosen scope of services and the complexity of the structure. A license for crypto activity includes both one-time and ongoing expenses. We offer flexible support packages tailored to specific businesses.

Main cost items include:

• State fees for licensing and supervision: one-time payment €4,500 and an annual fee of ~0.4% of revenue;
• Formation of share capital according to the activity category;
• Legal services for document preparation and communication with KNF;
• Office rent and staff maintenance to ensure real presence (substance).

The total amount is calculated individually, based on the ambitions and technical requirements of the platform. A crypto license is worth every euro, as it is a reliable investment in the future of your financial company.

Registration of a Crypto Company in Poland

Registering a company in Poland according to established rules is not as difficult as in many other European countries. This applies to both local and foreign investors. The process of creating a Polish company for cryptocurrency businesses is the same as for any other corporate structure.

Note: The registration procedure may take from two weeks to a month, depending on the chosen legal form. Registration can be done online or physically at a notary office. Lawrange experts prioritize the option of remote registration.

This refers to registration in the S24 system. This online system is regulated by the Polish Ministry of Justice (Ministerstwo Sprawiedliwości). It allows registration and amendments for any legal entity, use of ready document templates, submission of annual reports, and signing documents using a trusted profile.

Key points of business registration:

• The new company must have an original name.
• The business entity must be registered in CEIDG (Central Register of Economic Activity) or KRS (National Court Register).
• Different legal forms have requirements for minimum share capital and management structure.
• For online registration, an electronic signature and a trusted profile on the ePUAP government services platform are required.
• Electronic identification is later needed for remote management, including correspondence with government administrative authorities, such as the tax office and ZUS (Social Insurance Institution).
• If the company has more than 5 employees, electronic correspondence with government services is mandatory.
• The optimal business form for foreigners in Poland is a limited liability company (spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością or Sp. z o.o.). Other forms are not available to all foreigners.
• When registering the company, activity codes should be correctly determined according to the PKD classifier (Polska Klasyfikacja Działalności).
• In the articles of association (analogous to the charter), any number of business activities can be indicated. Later, 10 codes must be selected, which are displayed in the KRS enterprise register.
• The minimum share capital for an LLC in Poland is 5,000 PLN. The share capital is considered formed at the moment of signing the articles of association (umowa spółki).
• After registering the company, a bank account must be opened.
• Within seven business days of registration, information on ultimate beneficiaries must be submitted to a special registry. Failure to comply carries a fine of up to 1 million PLN.
• Within twenty-one days of registration, a completed NIP-8 form must be sent to the tax office at the registration address, including information on the bank account and company accounting.

Why You Should Choose Lawrange

Over 10 years in the legal services market, with offices in all key countries worldwide, including Poland, and hundreds of accredited experts, including cryptocurrency specialists.

We provide a comprehensive support service for candidates seeking a crypto license in Poland, analyzing the legal framework, preparing documents, and defending clients’ interests. Ready to start cooperation? Contact a Lawrange manager for preliminary consultations!

Conclusions

From now on, Poland can be considered one of the countries where cryptocurrency activity is regulated at the legislative level. Although a cryptocurrency license in Poland is not issued, it is replaced by the so-called crypto authorization procedure – the entry of a company into a separate register of organizations engaged in virtual currency activities.

We are currently actively testing the crypto authorization procedure. As our client, you can gain a significant advantage over competitors in the market by registering a crypto company in Poland under the new procedures among the first.

FAQ

ORDER OBTAINING A CRYPTOLICENSE IN POLAND Telegram bot for quick communication with us