Bybit Secures MiCA License in Austria, Expands EU Services

Bybit, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, has achieved a significant regulatory milestone by securing a Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) license from Austria’s Financial Market Authority (FMA). This approval enables Bybit EU, registered under commercial number 636180i, to operate as a regulated crypto asset service provider (CASP) and extend its services across all 29 European Economic Area member states. This move allows the platform to serve nearly 500 million Europeans under MiCA’s harmonized framework, which aims to promote regulatory consistency, prevent illicit activity, and protect consumers.

Bybit has also established its European headquarters in Vienna, Austria. This strategic location allows the exchange to offer localized crypto services tailored to EU regulations and to hire over 100 staff to support its European operations. Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit, highlighted the company's commitment to compliance and regulatory assurance, stating, "Securing the MiCAR license in Austria is a testament to our compliance-first approach at Bybit. We are actively collaborating with regulators and pursuing licenses globally to ensure our users can access our innovative platform with the highest levels of regulatory and compliance assurance."

The MiCA framework, which became enforceable in early 2025, has prompted crypto companies to establish regulated bases within the European Union to legally expand their services across borders. Bybit's move to Vienna aligns with this regulatory trend and positions the exchange to capitalize on the growing demand for regulated crypto services in Europe.

In addition to its regulatory achievements, Bybit plans to work closely with universities across the region through its Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) initiative. This initiative aims to promote blockchain technology and foster innovation in the field. Mazurka Zeng, CEO of Bybit Europe, expressed pride in contributing to Austria’s forward-looking financial environment by investing in talent and innovation.

Bybit's regulatory win comes after the exchange suffered a massive breach in February 2025, which led to the loss of $1.5 billion in assets, making it the largest crypto theft on record. Despite this setback, Bybit has continued to expand its operations and strengthen its regulatory compliance, demonstrating its resilience and commitment to the cryptocurrency industry.