EU Crypto Regulation: What You Need to Know

When talking about EU crypto regulation, the set of rules the European Union has adopted to govern crypto assets, exchanges, and service providers. Also known as European crypto law, it aims to protect investors, ensure market integrity, and foster innovation across member states.

Key components of EU crypto regulation

The centerpiece is MiCA, the Markets in Crypto‑Assets Regulation that creates a unified licensing regime for token issuers and service providers. MiCA sets capital requirements, disclosure duties, and a clear path for stablecoin approval. Because MiCA requires token issuers to publish a white‑paper and maintain a EU‑wide passport, it directly influences how stablecoins are issued and how crypto exchanges operate.

Another pillar is the EU’s AML/KYC framework, the anti‑money‑laundering and know‑your‑customer rules that apply to all crypto‑related businesses. This framework forces exchanges and wallet providers to verify user identities, report suspicious activity, and keep transaction records for five years. The AML rules support MiCA by adding a compliance layer that deters illicit use of crypto assets.

Stablecoin regulation also gets special attention. Under MiCA, stablecoins that claim a 1:1 peg with a fiat currency must hold reserves in a segregated account and undergo regular audits. This requirement links back to AML rules, as the reserves must be traceable and sourced from legitimate channels. Meanwhile, crypto‑exchange licensing now demands a single EU passport, meaning a platform that complies in one member state can operate across the bloc, streamlining market entry for compliant firms.

All these pieces—MiCA, AML/KYC, stablecoin oversight, and exchange licensing—work together to create a coherent regulatory environment. They shape how projects launch tokens, how investors protect themselves, and how businesses scale across borders. Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each aspect, from detailed MiCA breakdowns to practical guides on meeting AML standards and navigating exchange licensing in the EU.