CASP License in the Slovak Republic
CASP license is a regulatory authorization that allows companies to legally operate with crypto assets within the European Union. It confirms that a company is officially permitted to provide digital asset services — from cryptocurrency exchange and secure custody to wallet management and executing transactions on behalf of clients.
CASP license functions as a financial passport in the crypto market, enabling full-scale operations across the EU single market.
Holding CASP status facilitates the establishment of partnerships with banks and payment service providers, as well as attracting major investors and entering international markets without the risk of account freezes or regulatory sanctions.
The Slovak Republic is particularly attractive due to its well-structured approach to digital asset regulation. The country offers a clear licensing procedure, transparent regulatory requirements, effective communication with authorities, and relatively moderate administrative costs. As an EU member state, the Slovak Republic provides a favorable environment for startups and small to mid-sized crypto projects.
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What Is a CASP License?
CASP (Crypto Asset Services Provider) is a license issued to companies operating in the crypto-asset sector. It confirms the legality of business activities and compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) requirements, while also ensuring client protection and operational transparency. The license is regulated under standards within the framework of the MiCA (Markets in Cryptoassets) regulation.
All companies involved with digital assets must obtain CASP status. Such services include cryptocurrency exchange into fiat or other cryptoassets, custody and management of cryptoassets on behalf of clients, execution of transactions on behalf of third parties, and participation in the offering or sale of cryptoassets. Companies providing such services without a license risk fines and other sanctions.
Requirements for Applicants
To obtain a CASP license, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
- Impeccable business reputation of shareholders and management;
- An internal AML/CFT policy compliant with FATF recommendations and EU regulations;
- Proof of funds and source of income;
- Minimum share capital (from EUR 50,000);
- A registered office in the Slovak Republic.
Types of CASP Licenses
Although the Slovak Republic legislation does not formally classify CASP licenses into distinct categories, regulators may determine the scope of authorization based on the range of services provided.
CASP Class 1 — Basic Services
Suitable for startups and small projects that do not operate trading platforms.
Minimum share capital: EUR 50,000
Permitted services include:
- Execution of orders on behalf of clients;
- Placement of crypto assets without firm underwriting commitments;
- Transfer of crypto assets on behalf of clients;
- Reception and transmission of orders for crypto assets;
- Crypto asset advisory services;
- Crypto asset portfolio management.
CASP Class 2 — Extended Services
Designed for crypto exchanges, custodial services, and OTC platforms.
Minimum share capital: EUR 125,000
Permitted services include:
- Custody and administration of crypto assets or private keys on behalf of clients;
- Exchange of crypto assets for fiat currency;
- Exchange of crypto assets for other crypto assets.
CASP Class 3 — Full License
In addition to Class 1 and Class 2 services, companies are authorized to operate trading platforms.
Minimum share capital: EUR 150,000
Permitted services include:
- All services under Class 2;
- Operation of crypto asset trading platforms.
CASP Licensing Procedure
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Company Registration in the Slovak RepublicThe first step is to register a legal entity in the Slovak Republic. The most commonly used corporate form is S.R.O. (Equivalent to an LLC).
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Documents PreparationTo submit the application, the following documents are required:
· Business plan;
· AML/CFT policy and KYC procedures;
· Internal control and risk management framework;
· Proof of source of funds;
· Information on ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) and directors;
· Office lease agreement or proof of registered address. -
Legal Support and Document FormalitiesOur Law&Trust specialists assist with document preparation, notarization, and certified translations.
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Documents SubmissionThe complete documentation package must be submitted to the Trade Licensing Register (Živnostenský register) and the Financial Intelligence Unit for AML assessment.
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Application ReviewThe average application review period is 15 to 30 business days. The total licensing timeline is 3 to 5 weeks, provided the documents are submitted correctly. To reduce processing time and minimize risks, applicants are encouraged to engage our legal team. Document submission is possible both in person and remotely.
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License IssuanceUpon successful review and approval of the application, the company is granted a CASP license.
Our Services
Law&Trust provides comprehensive legal support throughout the CASP licensing process in the Slovak Republic and other jurisdictions. We offer professional consultations, assist in selecting the optimal jurisdiction based on your business model, support company registration, and prepare a complete and compliant documentation package.
Our services include:
- CASP licensing consultations;
- Company registration in the Slovak Republic;
- Preparation of a full licensing application package;
- Regulatory liaison and application support;
- Appointment of nominee directors and AML officers;
- Ensuring full regulatory compliance.
If you plan to develop your crypto project in Europe, professional legal assistance is essential. Our experts will guide you at every stage — from concept to licensing and successful market entry.