Kraken Secures MiCA License Expanding EU Crypto Services

Cryptocurrency exchange Kraken has secured a significant regulatory milestone by obtaining a license under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework from the Central Bank of Ireland. This achievement allows Kraken to expand its regulated services across all 30 member states of the European Economic Area (EEA), marking a pivotal moment in the exchange's growth strategy. The MiCA license, in conjunction with Kraken's existing Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) and Electronic Money Institution (EMI) licenses, enables the exchange to offer a comprehensive suite of regulated crypto services to millions of clients across the EU.

The MiCA framework is designed to establish regulatory consistency for digital assets across the EU, ensuring a high level of consumer protection and market integrity. By securing this license, Kraken demonstrates its commitment to compliance and its readiness to operate within the stringent regulatory environment of the EU. This move is expected to enhance Kraken's credibility and attract more users who prioritize security and regulatory adherence.

Kraken's co-CEO, Arjun Sethi, emphasized the importance of trust in the crypto industry, stating that the exchange has worked tirelessly to meet the Central Bank of Ireland's regulatory expectations. The approval of the MiCA license positions Kraken as a leader in the European crypto market, setting a precedent for other exchanges aiming to operate within the EU. This achievement is a testament to Kraken's strategic planning and its dedication to navigating the complex regulatory landscape.

The Central Bank of Ireland's approval of the MiCA license for Kraken is a significant development for the cryptocurrency industry. It underscores the growing acceptance of digital assets and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to govern their use. For Kraken, this license represents a major milestone and a massive achievement, reinforcing its position as a leader in the European crypto market.

With the MiCA license in place, Kraken is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for regulated crypto services in the EU. The exchange's ability to offer compliant and secure services will likely attract a broader range of users, including institutional investors who require regulatory assurance. This development is expected to drive further growth and innovation in the European crypto market, as more exchanges and financial institutions seek to comply with the MiCA regulations.

Other crypto exchanges seeking to expand their regulated services to the EU region have likely sought MiCA approval. Coinbase, OKX, Crypto.com and Bybit have all announced MiCA licenses in 2025, with Gemini reportedly on track for approval in Malta. However, not all crypto companies are on board with MiCA. Stablecoin issuer Tether has said it will not pursue MiCA registration for its USDt stablecoin, leading to some exchanges delisting the token.

Kraken’s MiCA notice came roughly a week after the exchange moved its global headquarters to Wyoming in “recognition of the pro-crypto policymakers and constructive regulations.” With much of its operations still in the US, Kraken is subject to US laws currently being considered in Congress to establish a digital asset market structure framework and provide regulatory guidelines for payment stablecoins. In March, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) dropped a civil lawsuit against the exchange filed in 2023, alleging Kraken operated as an unregistered exchange, broker, dealer and clearing agency.