FCA Opens UK Crypto Authorisation Gateway Ahead of 2027 Regime

The Financial Conduct Authority has opened its authorisation gateway for crypto firms that intend to operate in the UK under the country’s new cryptoasset regime. The FCA says firms intending to continue operating in the UK should apply by 28 February 2027, before the regime comes into force on 25 October 2027.

Under the planned regime, the FCA says firms will be assessed against standards covering consumer protection, safeguarding of customer assets, market integrity and financial resilience. The regulator says authorisation is not automatic: firms that cannot demonstrate they meet the requirements will not be authorised to provide regulated cryptoasset services in the UK.

The FCA also says existing firms that apply during the application period can continue providing cryptoasset services, including taking on new business, while their applications are being assessed if no decision has been made before the new regime takes effect.

Why it matters

UK traders using crypto platforms should not assume an application means a firm has already been authorised. The gateway is a transition step, while the final regime has a later effective date. The FCA’s published timetable and a firm’s regulatory status remain more useful checks than marketing claims about an application.

For platforms and brokers serving UK clients, the application window makes operational readiness—such as safeguarding, controls and financial-resilience arrangements—a near-term compliance issue.

What to watch next

Watch for FCA application guidance, the 28 February 2027 application deadline and decisions on individual firms. Before using a provider, traders can check the FCA Register and the firm’s current permissions.