Key Takeaways
- From December 31, 2025, any cryptocurrency activity in Lithuania without a MiCA license will be treated as illegal.
- Authorities can impose sanctions ranging from fines and website blocking to criminal prosecution.
Crypto companies in Lithuania that continue to operate after December 31 without the necessary MiCA license will be considered in violation of the law and may face fines and possible prison sentences.
In July, the Bank of Lithuania guidance issued urge crypto exchanges and wallet operators that do not plan to apply for MiCA licenses to wind down their operations before the transition period ends. The central bank said early action was necessary to protect investors and ensure transparency once the EU framework comes into force.
According to the latest update from the Bank of Lithuania, there are more than 370 companies registered offering crypto services in Lithuania, but only about 120 companies are actively operating and submitting financial statements.
By mid-July, thirty companies had applied for a crypto asset service provider license, with ten of these applications being assessed.
Operators planning to cease operations are encouraged to actively communicate with customers, clearly explaining timelines and providing detailed instructions on how to withdraw or transfer funds and crypto assets. Customers should also be informed about the possibility of exchanging their crypto assets for funds held at a custodian.
From January 1, 2026, Lithuanian law will prohibit offering crypto asset services without a MiCA license. Illegal providers may face fines, blocked websites, public warnings and criminal penalties, including a possible prison sentence of up to four years.
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