- KuCoin EU licensed under Austria’s MiCA framework, covering 29 EEA countries.
- Austria chosen for its stable regulations, MiCA implementation, and talent pool.
- Malta excluded due to independent stance on EU MiCA supervision.
Major cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin has officially obtained a MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license for its European operations, enabling it to provide crypto services across most of the European Economic Area (EEA). The license, granted by Austria’s Financial Market Authority (FMA), marks a key milestone in KuCoin’s regulatory and compliance strategy.
Austria Chosen as Strategic Hub
KuCoin EU’s MiCA authorization allows it to operate in 29 EEA countries, with Malta as the notable exception. The choice of Austria reflects the country’s stable regulatory environment, timely implementation of MiCA laws, and access to a strong talent pool. The license follows KuCoin’s early 2025 application and positions Vienna as a strategic hub for the exchange’s European expansion.
“Securing the MiCA license with our local entity in Austria is a defining milestone in KuCoin’s long-term trust and compliance strategy,” said KuCoin CEO BC Wong. “This regulatory framework is among the highest standards globally.”
Joining a Select Group of Licensed CASPs
KuCoin is one of six cryptocurrency asset service providers (CASPs) to receive MiCA licenses from Austria’s FMA. Other licensees include Bitpanda, Bybit, FIOR Digital, and crypto-friendly Amina Bank. The move signals Austria’s growing prominence as a center for crypto regulation within the EU and reflects broader European efforts to formalize digital asset services under MiCA.
Wong emphasized that the license strengthens KuCoin’s commitment to “responsible global expansion” and ensures users have access to secure, compliant, and innovative crypto services across Europe.
Malta Remains an Exception
While the license covers most EEA countries, Malta is excluded due to its independent approach to MiCA supervision. The Mediterranean island has issued multiple MiCA licenses to exchanges such as Blockchain.com and Gemini but often opposes centralized EU oversight, unlike countries such as France or Austria. KuCoin has not commented publicly on the Malta exception.
Also Read: Turkmenistan Legalizes Crypto — But the Government Holds All the Cards
KuCoin EU’s MiCA license underscores the growing importance of regulatory compliance in the European crypto market. By establishing Austria as its European base, the exchange positions itself to serve millions of users under one of the strictest and most respected regulatory frameworks worldwide.
