Cryptocurrency License in New Zealand

New Zealand’s digital platform is highly developed due to a favorable investment climate and clear legal regulation. The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) classifies operations with crypto assets as securities, thereby subjecting them to regulation under the following legislative acts:

Since any variations of cryptocurrencies in New Zealand are equated with types of securities, a cryptocurrency license in New Zealand is not required. Formally, what must be licensed is the activity through which cryptocurrency market counterparties provide services to clients.

The Authority separately emphasizes: even if, under certain parameters, a digital product cannot be identified by characteristics associated with securities, securities regulation still applies to such assets in any case.

Advantages of a crypto license in New Zealand

Reliability and international reputation. New Zealand is a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Commonwealth. The country’s legal system is based on common law. Companies licensed in this jurisdiction inspire trust among banks, investors, and partners.
Developed regulator. The license is regulated by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 and a number of other laws, including AML/CFT. All providers must register in the Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR). Strict requirements create trustworthy and long-term relationships with users.
Infrastructure and innovative ecosystem. New Zealand offers excellent internet connectivity, which is a necessary condition for successful cryptocurrency business operations. In addition, blockchain communities, startups, and innovation hubs are developing in the country. The government has launched a regulatory sandbox for fintech and blockchain projects where products can be tested.
Business expansion opportunities. Since New Zealand is part of key international organizations, crypto companies gain access to markets in Asia and Oceania.

License obtaining procedure

Activity requirements check

Before submitting an application, a company must register with the FSPR. The activity must comply with the requirements of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 and the AML/CFT Act 2009.
Required document preparation

Preparation of the following documents:
Business plan and description of services (exchange, custody, payment processing, etc.).
AML/CFT policy.
Risk and conflict of interest management policies.
IT and cybersecurity framework.
Information about directors and shareholders.
Application to governmental agency

In addition to FSPR registration, it is necessary to register with the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) as a crypto service provider under AML/CFT.
All documents must be translated into English and notarized. After successful verification, the company is included in the FSP register, and the organization can officially operate.

Who needs a crypto license in New Zealand

Crypto exchanges and trading platforms.
Payment services and wallet providers.
Brokers.
DeFi and investment projects.
ICO/IEO projects issuing and distributing tokens.
Organizations accepting cryptocurrency as payment.
Mining and staking pools.
Custody providers.

Our specialists at Law&Trustwill assist you with registering your business. Consultations are available by phone or via the website.

Our Services

If you need to obtain a cryptocurrency license in New Zealand, contact us - Law&Trust provides full support throughout the licensing process for conducting crypto business in the country.