What Is VASP Licensing? Who Needs a Crypto License in 2026

VASP licensing is one of the first steps a crypto business must take before accepting customers. However, its requirements and even terminology vary significantly between countries.

While there is no single global “VASP license,” VASP is a Financial Action Task Force classification used by governments to implement their own regulatory systems. The EU now typically uses “crypto-asset service provider,” or CASP.

The US focuses on money-transmitter rules, and Dubai still explicitly issues VASP licenses. Related: MPC Wallet: Is Crypto Finally Moving Beyond Seed Phrases? What Is VASP Licensing?

In general, VASP licensing is a type of regulatory authorization for businesses that provide virtual asset services.