Key takeaways
- From December 31, 2025, any activity on cryptoassets in Lithuania without a MiCA license will be considered illegal.
- Authorities can impose sanctions ranging from fines to blocking websites to criminal prosecution.
Crypto companies in Lithuania that continue to operate without the necessary MiCA license after December 31 will be considered in violation of the law and could be subject to fines and possible prison sentences.
In July, the Bank of Lithuania issued guidelines urging crypto exchanges and wallet operators that do not plan to apply for a MiCA license to begin winding down their operations before the end of the transition period. The central bank said rapid action was needed to protect investors and ensure transparency when the EU framework comes into force.
More than 370 companies are registered as offering crypto services in Lithuania, but only around 120 are actively operating and filing financial statements, according to the latest update from the Bank of Lithuania.
As of mid-July, 30 companies had applied for a crypto-asset service provider license, and ten of those applications were under review.
Operators considering ceasing operations are encouraged to actively communicate with customers, clearly explain deadlines, and provide detailed instructions on how to withdraw or transfer funds and cryptoassets. Customers should also be informed of the possibility of exchanging their cryptoassets for funds held with a custodian.
As of January 1, 2026, Lithuanian law will prohibit the provision of crypto-asset services without a MiCA license. Illegal providers face fines, blocked websites, public warnings and criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to four years.
