Google Play Store Requires Regulatory Licenses for Crypto Wallet Apps by October 29, 2025

Google Play Store has announced a sweeping policy change requiring cryptocurrency exchange and custodial wallet app developers to obtain official regulatory licenses in key jurisdictions by October 29, 2025. The move is part of a broader effort to align the platform with global financial regulations surrounding digital assets, particularly in the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Japan [1]. The new rules apply to apps that hold users' private keys or manage digital assets on their behalf, requiring developers to declare their services and meet jurisdiction-specific compliance standards [2].

Regulatory requirements vary by region. In the U.S., developers must register with FinCEN as Money Services Businesses and secure state-level money transmitter licenses. In the EU, compliance with Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) rules, including CASP authorization, is mandatory [3]. Japan and South Korea have distinct regulatory frameworks, with Japan requiring registration with the Financial Services Agency and South Korea demanding reports to the Korea Financial Intelligence Unit [3]. In some markets, such as Thailand and Indonesia, licensing is only required for exchanges, not wallets, highlighting the fragmented global regulatory landscape [3].

Non-custodial wallets, which allow users to retain full control of their private keys, are exempt from the licensing requirement. Google cited industry feedback as the basis for this exemption, recognizing the lower regulatory risk associated with these applications [3]. However, developers in this category may still face market fluctuations, especially if users shift toward decentralized solutions due to regulatory constraints [4].

The new policy could create significant challenges for smaller developers, particularly those lacking the resources to navigate complex licensing processes. Larger platforms such as Coinbase and Binance, which are already compliant in most regions, may face increased scrutiny in new jurisdictions [3]. Analysts suggest that regulatory barriers could drive users toward decentralized solutions if custodial options become more restricted, echoing historical trends where Total Value Locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols dipped during periods of regulatory uncertainty [4].

Google has provided transition periods for certain markets to ease the compliance burden. For example, France will have until June 30, 2026, to allow developers to transition from existing Digital Asset Service Provider registrations to MiCA compliance, while Germany must complete this process by December 30, 2025 [3]. Unlicensed apps will be banned from the platform in major markets by the 2025 deadline, reinforcing Google’s position as a responsible and compliant digital financial services platform [2].

The policy underscores a growing trend of global oversight in the cryptocurrency sector and reflects Google’s commitment to aligning with evolving regulatory frameworks. While developers in non-listed jurisdictions can still publish apps, they remain responsible for complying with local laws. Google also reserves the right to request additional compliance documentation for any jurisdiction [3].

Source:

[1] Forbes (https://www.forbes.com/sites/boazsobrado/2025/08/13/google-play-store-requires-government-licenses-for-crypto-wallet-apps/)

[2] GBHackers (https://gbhackers.com/google-mandates-license-or-certification/)

[3] Cyber (https://cyberpress.org/google-crypto-app/)

[4] unchainedcrypto.com (https://unchainedcrypto.com/google-play-updates-rules-for-crypto-wallet-apps/)

[5] AInvest (https://www.ainvest.com/news/google-play-enforces-15-market-crypto-wallet-licensing-rules-october-29-2025-2508/)