Legal services:

Comprehensive legal solutions for contracts, disputes, and compliance. Our expert team ensures legal protection and strategic guidance for your business.

AML consulting:

Specialised AML consulting to develop and maintain robust anti-money laundering policies. We assess risks, offer ongoing support and provide tailored AML services.

Obtaining a crypto license:

We offer licensing and ongoing support for your crypto-business. We also offer licences in the most popular jurisdictions.

Registration of legal entities:

Efficient legal entity registration support. We manage documentation and interaction with the authorities, ensuring a seamless process for establishing your business.

Opening bank accounts:

We facilitate the opening of bank accounts through our extensive network of partners (European banks). Hassle-free process, tailored to your business needs.

COREDO TEAM

Nikita Veremeev
Nikita Veremeev
CEO
Pavel Kos
Pavel Kos
Head of the legal department
Grigorii Lutcenko
Grigorii Lutcenko
Head of AML department
Annet Abdurzakova
Annet Abdurzakova
Head of the Customer Success Department
Basang Ungunov
Basang Ungunov
Lawyer at Legal Department
Egor Pykalev
Egor Pykalev
AML consultant
Yulia Zhidikhanova
Yulia Zhidikhanova
Customer Success Associate
Pavel Batsulin
Pavel Batsulin
AML consultant
Diana Alchaeva
Diana Alchaeva
Customer Success Associate
Johann Schneider
Johann Schneider
Lawyer
Daniil Saprykin
Daniil Saprykin
Customer Success Associate

Our clients

COREDO’s clients are manufacturers, traders and financial companies, as well as wealthy clients from European and CIS countries.

Effective communication and fast project realisation guarantee satisfaction of our customers.

Exactly
Unitpay
Grispay
Newreality
Chicrypto
Xchanger
CONVERTIQ
Crypto Engine
Pion
In conditions where the European capital market is becoming increasingly competitive and regulated, the cost of a mistake — lost months, hundreds of thousands of euros, and reputational risks — is difficult to remediate.
Are you sure you’re ready to go down this path without a strategic partner?

In this article I, Nikita Veremeev, CEO COREDO, share the systematic experience of our team: how to register an investment company in the EU, obtain an investment activity license, comply with AML requirements, and open an account with an international bank.

If you’re looking not just for an overview but for a practical guide that can save months and minimize risks, I recommend reading to the end: you’ll receive not only answers to common questions but also strategic insights that we at COREDO developed through dozens of real-world cases.

Investment company in the EU — what is it and why is it needed?

Illustration for the section «Investment company in the EU - what is it and why is it needed?» in the article «Registration of an investment company in the EU»

An EU investment company is a legal entity created to manage assets, raise capital, organize collective investment schemes (CIS), launch investment funds, and provide professional investment management services. The most in-demand formats include Management companies (AIFM), UCITS funds, licensed brokers, payment and forex companies.

Registering an investment company in the EU opens access to the single European market, opportunities for passporting an investment license (passporting), as well as to the infrastructure of international banks and investment platforms.
COREDO clients, when entering the European market, gain not only prestige but also legal access to qualified investors, institutional partners, and secure funding channels.

Who can open an investment firm in Europe? EU legislation does not limit this process to residents only – registration of an investment company for non-residents and obtaining an investment license for non-EU residents are possible provided certain conditions are met.

COREDO’s practice shows: with proper document preparation and compliance with AML/KYC requirements, a non-resident can obtain a license and open an account in an international bank on the same terms as residents.

How do I register an investment company in the EU?

Illustration for the section “How to register an investment company in the EU?” in the article “Registration of an investment company in the EU”
For successful registration of an investment company in the EU, it is necessary to meet a number of key requirements that govern both the incorporation process itself and subsequent activities. One of the fundamental conditions is compliance with the established requirements for own capital, which guarantee the company’s financial stability and reliability.

Own capital: requirements

Minimum capital for registering an investment company in the EU: €125,000 if it concerns an AIFM or UCITS management company, or a brokerage license. For some types of activities (for example, investment funds with limited risk) this threshold may be higher: up to €730,000.

Confirmation of payment of the share capital: a mandatory step: funds must be deposited into a temporary account in a European bank, and the deposit statement is attached to the registration package.

A real COREDO case: when registering an investment company in Lithuania with the minimum capital, we provided the client not only with confirmation of payment but also with support in the bank’s KYC process, which significantly sped up account opening and registration in the EU commercial register.

Requirements for directors and shareholders
The director of an investment company can be either an EU resident or a non-resident, but some countries (for example, Germany or Ireland) require at least one director who is a resident.
A crucial stage is the verification of business reputation: directors, shareholders and beneficiaries must undergo KYC procedures, confirm the absence of criminal records, provide references and disclose the ownership structure.

The COREDO team carried out a project to register an investment company in Estonia without the director being a resident: thanks to the detailed preparation of the KYC dossier and cooperation with the regulator, the client received approval without having to change the management structure.

Requirements for the business plan and reporting
The business plan is the key document for registering an investment company and for IES/DA reporting.
European regulators expect from the applicant not only a description of the strategy but also a financial model, forecasts for attracting investors, a description of risk management procedures, AML policies and IT infrastructure.
Reporting for an investment company in the EU (including IES/DA) must be transparent, comply with IFRS standards and be regularly submitted to supervisory authorities.

Requirements for AML audit and KYC procedures
AML requirements for investment companies in the EU are among the strictest in the world.

Registering an investment company with an AML audit includes developing internal procedures, appointing an AML officer (MLRO), implementing systems for verifying sources of capital and automating KYC processes.
The solution developed at COREDO allows integrating online KYC and automated verification of sources of funds already at the document submission stage, which minimizes the risk of rejection at the licensing stage.

registration requirements in registries and taxation
For full operation of an investment company in the EU, registration in the EU commercial register, tax registration with the tax authority and, if necessary, registration with the social security fund are required.
Procedures can differ between countries: for example, registering an investment company in Germany requires notarization of the founding documents, while in Lithuania and Estonia online submission via government portals is allowed.

Legal address and office: requirements

Proof of the office address is a mandatory condition for registering an investment company with a lease agreement for the legal address.
At COREDO we assist clients in choosing a location, provide advice on leasing and ensure preparation of all necessary supporting documents.

Requirements for online submission and notarization of documents
Modern EU jurisdictions (Lithuania, Estonia, Portugal) allow registration of an investment company via online document submission through government systems.

Nevertheless, for a number of countries (Germany, Austria) notarization of the founding documents and in-person presence at the signing stage are still required.
COREDO’s experience confirms: competent preparation of the electronic document package and the correct choice of jurisdiction make it possible to complete the investment company registration process online without delays and additional costs.

How to obtain a license for investment activity in the EU

Illustration for the section 'How to obtain a license for investment activity in the EU' in the article 'Registration of an investment company in the EU'

obtaining a license for investment activity in the EU: this is the first step to entering the single European financial market and legally providing investment services within the territory of the Union countries. A key stage in this process is determining the appropriate type of license that fully corresponds to the directions and scale of your investment activities.

Types of licenses for investment activity in the EU
There are two main categories of licenses in the EU:

  • AIFM (Alternative Investment Fund Manager), for management companies of alternative investment funds.
  • UCITS (Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities) – for collective investment schemes aimed at retail investors.

Also in demand are fund management licenses, licenses for non-residents of the EU, and specialized licenses for investment companies with a collective investment scheme (CIS).

Obtaining a license
the process of obtaining a license for investment activity in the EU includes several stages:

  • Submitting an application with a complete set of documents, including a business plan, AML policy, proof of capital, and KYC information about beneficiaries.
  • Review of the application by the regulator (usually 2–6 months).
  • Obtaining the license and registration in the relevant registers.
  • Passporting of the investment license: after obtaining a license in one EU country, a company can legally provide services in other EU countries without the need for re-licensing.
The COREDO team supported the UCITS license passporting process for a client from Portugal: thanks to correct preparation of the documentation and engagement with regulators at the EU level, the company obtained the right to provide services in all Member States.

Registration of an investment company in EU countries

Illustration for the section «Registration of an investment company in EU countries» in the article «Registration of an investment company in the EU»

Registering an investment company in popular EU countries is a strategic step that allows a business to enter the largest European market, take advantage of a stable banking system and transparent regulation. At the same time, each EU country imposes its own requirements for registration conditions, licensing and reporting, which is important to consider when choosing a jurisdiction.

Registration of an investment company in Lithuania

Lithuania, one of the most dynamic jurisdictions for registering an investment company with a minimum capital (125 000 euros).
Online submission of documents is allowed here, residency requirements for directors are lenient, and quick integration with payment systems is possible.
Our experience at COREDO has shown: with well-prepared business plans and IES/DA reporting, as well as the correct choice of bank to confirm capital, registration takes 2–4 weeks.

Company registration in Estonia
Estonia – a leader in digitalization: registering an investment company in Estonia with online document submission is possible through e-Residency and the government portal.
Minimum capital – 125 000 euros, director requirements are flexible, and the absence of a resident among management is permitted.

COREDO accompanied the registration of an investment company for non-EU residents, integrating KYC and AML procedures into the digital submission process.

How to register an investment firm in Portugal?

Portugal is attractive because of the possibility to passport a license and a flexible tax regime.
A detailed business plan, proof of capital sources and a lease agreement for a legal address are required.
A COREDO case: the client received an investment license with a collective investment scheme (CIS) and successfully passed an AML audit thanks to the implementation of automated investor verification procedures.

Registration of an investment company in Ireland
Ireland is a hub for large investment funds and management companies.
Registering an investment company in Ireland with a business plan requires detailed development of the financial model, the presence of a qualified director and a transparent shareholder structure.

COREDO provided client support during the preparation of IES/DA reporting and coordination with the EU tax authority.

company registration in Germany
In Germany the procedure is more formalized: notarization of the founding documents is required, the presence of at least one director-resident and confirmation of the business reputation of all participants.

A completed COREDO project: registration of an investment fund’s management company with a fund management license and completion of a comprehensive AML audit.

Registration of an investment company for non-residents

Illustration for the section «Registration of an investment company for non-residents» in the article «Registration of an investment company in the EU»

The registration of an investment company for non-residents involves special requirements and nuances that distinguish this process from the standard procedure for residents. To successfully start a business, a non-resident must take into account the specifics of document preparation, legal restrictions, and the conditions for the participation of foreign individuals in the company’s capital and management.

Registration for non-residents
The registration of an investment company for non-residents of the EU requires special attention to matters such as a business visa, a bank recommendation letter, and proof of sources of capital.

COREDO supports clients at every stage: from preparing documents for a business visa to organizing meetings with banks and preparing recommendation letters.

Opening a corporate account for an investment company in the EU

Opening a corporate account for an investment company in the EU requires compliance with a number of strict banking and regulatory rules. Before starting the procedure, it is important to consider that European legislation imposes specific requirements on investment companies: from minimum share capital to transparency of the governance structure and the presence of necessary licenses. Below we will examine the key requirements banks impose on such companies when opening an account.

What requirements do banks place on investment firms?
International banks impose strict requirements on investment companies:

  • A detailed business plan and growth strategy.
  • KYC documents for all beneficial owners and directors.
  • Evidence of business reputation.
  • Transparency of sources of funds.
COREDO provides comprehensive preparation of the document package, allowing clients to open accounts in leading international banks without delays.

How to choose an international bank?
selection criteria, not only reliability, but also experience working with investment companies, availability of infrastructure for collective investment schemes and support for online banking.

COREDO’s experience confirms: an optimal choice of bank at the registration stage helps avoid difficulties with capital verification and speeds up the licensing process.

Registration of an investment fund in the EU

registration of an investment fund in the EU – it is a strictly regulated process that requires selecting an appropriate jurisdiction and complying with comprehensive requirements. Depending on the objectives and investors, various types of funds are available in Europe, each of which has its own features and registration rules.

Types of EU investment funds
In the EU, various formats of investment funds are available: collective investment scheme (CIS), funds for qualified investors (QIF), UCITS, AIF.
Registering an investment company with a collective investment scheme (CIS) and for qualified investors enables attracting capital from both private and institutional investors.

Investment fund registration
The process includes submitting an application, review by the regulator, and obtaining a license for the investment fund’s management company.

COREDO supports clients at every stage, ensuring compliance with AML standards and preparing all necessary reporting.

Practical steps and recommendations

Technical and organizational preparation is the foundation of a successful registration of an investment company in the EU, which requires strict compliance with the procedures of each jurisdiction. Practical steps, from choosing a country to opening a bank account, must be carried out sequentially and taking into account the specific legal requirements. Below are recommendations for implementing each stage of registration that will help minimize mistakes and speed up the process of establishing your company.

Step-by-step registration of an investment company in the EU

  1. Preparation of the complete document package (business plan, proof of capital, KYC).
  2. Submitting the application via an online system or notarization (depending on the country).
  3. Obtaining an EU investment activity license (AIFM, UCITS).
  4. Opening an account with an international bank.
  5. Registration in the EU commercial register, tax authority, and EU social security fund.

Tips for reducing risks

  • Prepare KYC/AML documentation thoroughly: it is the key to successful registration of an investment company, including AML audits and verification of capital sources.
  • Use the experience of professional consultants: COREDO’s practice shows that support at all stages reduces the likelihood of refusal and accelerates the licensing process.
  • Don’t skimp on preparing the business plan and reporting: transparency and structured documentation are the main arguments for the regulator.

Key takeaways

Registration of an investment company in the EU: it is not merely a legal formality, but a comprehensive strategy for entering the international capital market.
Capital requirements (from €125,000), transparency of structure, compliance with AML/KYC standards, proper preparation of the business plan and reporting, as well as the right choice of jurisdiction and bank — these are the main success factors.
COREDO’s experience shows that only a systematic approach and a deep understanding of the regulatory framework make it possible not only to register an EU investment company but also to build a long-term, sustainable business with international prospects.

Requirements for registering an investment company in the EU by country

Country Minimum capital Online submission Notarization Passporting Business plan AML audit International bank
Lithuania €125,000 Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Estonia €125,000 Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Portugal €125,000 Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ireland €125,000 Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Germany €125,000 No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

In 2026 the CySEC license becomes not just a formal tool for entering the European market, but a strategic asset for financial companies seeking international growth. According to the latest data from the European Commission, the volume of transactions in digital assets and investment services supervised by the Cypriot regulator has increased by more than 40% over the past three years.

This is not just statistics – it is a signal: the market is becoming more complex, requirements for transparency and compliance are tightening, and competition for clients’ trust is taking new forms.

Why does obtaining a Cypriot license raise questions?

Why does obtaining a Cypriot license for financial companies raise so many questions among entrepreneurs from the EU, Asia and the CIS?
On the one hand – it is access to the European Union single market through EU passporting via CySEC. On the other, opacity of procedures, rising requirements for capital and internal control, as well as constant changes in regulation.

What will you find in the article?

In this article I, Nikita Veremeev, share the practical experience of COREDO: from analyzing requirements and preparing documents to strategies for minimizing risks and accelerating the process. If you are looking not for theory but for working solutions – read to the end. Here you will find not only answers to key questions, but also tools for successfully launching a business with a CySEC license in 2026.

What is a CySEC license and why is it needed in 2026?

Illustration for the section «CySEC License, what is it and why is it needed in 2026?» in the article «CySEC License- how to obtain in 2026»
CySEC: the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission, a recognized regulator of the financial sector that, since 2004, ensures Cypriot companies comply with EU standards, and since 2012 has been a key player in the regulation of crypto-assets and fintech services.

In practice, a CySEC license is not just permission to operate, but a mark of trust for clients and partners, especially when working with European and international investors.

For companies from the EU, Asia and the CIS, a Cypriot license for financial firms opens access to the European Union market thanks to CySEC’s EU passporting mechanism. This means that, having obtained a license in Cyprus, a company can legally provide investment and financial services in all EU countries without needing to obtain separate licenses in each jurisdiction.

This approach significantly reduces the costs of launching and scaling a business, and also speeds up entry into new markets.
CySEC regulation is built on principles of transparency, protection of investors’ rights and strict control over compliance with AML/CTF (anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing measures).

COREDO’s experience confirms: having a Cypriot license significantly increases trust from banks, payment systems, institutional clients and partners from Europe, Asia and the CIS. This is especially relevant for companies working with digital assets, investment products and fintech solutions.

Key CySEC requirements for licensing in 2026

Illustration for the section «Key CySEC requirements for licensing in 2026» in the article «CySEC license - how to obtain in 2026»
The key CySEC requirements for licensing in 2026 are associated with tightened supervision, ensuring financial resilience and investor protection. Companies seeking to obtain a license must not only comply with organizational and operational standards but also meet strict capital and financial metrics.

Requirements for capital and business resilience

In 2026, CySEC’s capital requirements have become even more differentiated. The following minimum capital levels apply to different license categories:

License type Minimum capital (EUR) Features
Forex broker from 125 000 Increased reporting and transparency requirements
Crypto asset service provider (CASP) from 15 000 Enhanced AML, cybersecurity, MiCA compliance
Investment advisers from 15 000 Specific CySEC requirements
Fintech companies from 125 000 Additional IT and information security requirements
Large investment firms from 730 000 to 2 000 000+ Increased supervision, internal control requirements
The solution developed by COREDO for clients from Asia and the CIS enables optimization of capital structure based on the business model and long-term goals. For example, cryptoasset startups can use phased capitalization, which reduces the financial burden at market entry.

Requirements for company structure and shareholders

CySEC imposes strict requirements on ownership structure transparency. All shareholders and ultimate beneficial owners undergo thorough vetting: documents are provided confirming the source of funds, absence of criminal records and sanctions, as well as compliance with ESG principles. For international companies and firms from Asia and the CIS, special attention is paid to the legality of capital origin and the transparency of the corporate structure.

The COREDO team has executed projects requiring integration of ESG reporting and creation of a transparent ownership chain to increase trust from regulators and partner banks.

This approach not only speeds up the licensing process but also facilitates subsequent account opening and international settlements.

Internal policies and procedures

In 2026, internal AML and KYC policies have become particularly important. CySEC requires the implementation of comprehensive client identification procedures, transaction monitoring and reporting of suspicious operations. For CASPs (crypto asset service providers) and fintech companies, cybersecurity procedures are mandatory in accordance with Circular C462 and GDPR standards.

COREDO’s experience shows that implementing automated AML systems and providing regular staff training not only ensures compliance with CySEC requirements but also minimizes operational risks.

CySEC supervision includes regular inspections, audits and mandatory reporting, which requires continual improvement of internal processes.

Obtaining a CySEC License in 2026

Illustration for the section «Obtaining a CySEC License in 2026» in the article «CySEC license — how to obtain in 2026»
procedure for obtaining a license CySEC in 2026 begins with strict compliance with regulatory requirements and the preparation of a comprehensive package of documents for the application. At each stage it is important to strictly follow the established steps and confirm the company’s readiness to meet CySEC standards, which ensures operational transparency and investor confidence.

Preparation of documents for submitting the application

Key stage: assembling a complete package of documents. For different types of licenses the list varies, but it basically includes:

  • Financial statements and confirmation of minimum capital
  • A detailed business plan with a risk analysis and an AML strategy
  • Shareholder and beneficiary documents (KYC, proof of source of funds)
  • Internal policies and procedures on AML, KYC, and cybersecurity
  • Confirmation of qualified personnel (director, compliance officer, MLRO)
A COREDO case implemented for an EU fintech company showed that thorough preparation of the business plan and a transparent capital structure accelerate application approval and minimize additional requests from CySEC.

Stages of submitting the application

The process of submitting an application to CySEC is fully digitalized: documents are uploaded via the online portal. After the initial review there may be requests for clarification or provision of additional data. The timeframes for obtaining a CySEC license in 2026 range from 3 to 9 months depending on the complexity of the structure and the type of license.

The solution proposed by COREDO for an international group included a preliminary audit of documents and modeling of possible regulator request scenarios, which reduced the review time by 20%.

License costs and renewal fees

The cost of a CySEC license consists of several components:

  • Registration fee (from 7,000 to 25,000 euros depending on the license type)
  • Annual supervisory fees (for example, for CASP: from 5,000 euros)
  • CySEC license renewal fees, which may be adjusted depending on the volume of operations and the license category
In COREDO’s practice there have been cases where optimizing the cost structure allowed reducing the overall cost of holding a license without compromising compliance with regulator requirements.

Licensing of financial companies: categories and requirements

Illustration for the section «Licensing of financial companies: categories and requirements» in the article «CySEC license - how to obtain in 2026»
licensing specifics for different categories of financial companies directly depend on the type and specifics of their activities, as well as the requirements of regulators in the chosen jurisdiction. Different categories of financial organizations face unique procedures, standards and conditions for obtaining licenses, which is reflected in the required documents, capital level and risk management measures.

CySEC license for Forex brokers

For Forex companies, a CySEC license is the industry standard. Main requirements include a minimum capital of EUR 125,000, qualified personnel and the implementation of comprehensive risk management procedures. CySEC supervision provides for regular inspections, audits and mandatory reporting on transactions and client funds.

COREDO’s experience shows that proper preparation of internal documentation and the implementation of automated reporting systems significantly increase the chances of a quick obtaining a license and successful operation in the EU market.

CySEC license for crypto-assets

Since 2024, registration and licensing of crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) in Cyprus are regulated under MiCA standards. This means new capital requirements (from EUR 15,000 for basic operations up to EUR 150,000 for custodial and exchange services), enhanced AML controls and mandatory implementation of cybersecurity.

The Revolut case, supported by the COREDO team, demonstrated that integrating MiCA solutions via CySEC allows not only legally providing cryptocurrency conversion and staking services, but also expanding the range of digital products for clients across Europe.

CySEC license for investment advisors and fintech

For investment advisors the minimum capital starts at EUR 15,000. On the other hand, a key factor is the professional experience and qualifications of key personnel. For fintech companies and digital asset providers, CySEC imposes additional requirements on IT infrastructure, data protection and the implementation of innovative AML solutions.

COREDO’s practice confirms: successful licensing of fintech companies requires not only compliance with formal requirements but also a strategic approach to building internal processes, which ensures the long-term sustainability of the business.

How to obtain a CySEC license in 2026

Illustration for the section 'How to obtain a CySEC license in 2026' in the article 'CySEC License - how to obtain in 2026'

  1. Choosing the license type: Analyze your business model and development strategy to select the optimal type of license (CASP, forex, investment services, etc.). COREDO’s solution – conducting a preliminary audit and modeling growth scenarios.
  2. Preparing a business plan: A detailed business plan with risk analysis, financial models and an AML strategy significantly increases the chances of the application being approved.
  3. Compliance with AML and ESG: Implement automated KYC/AML systems, train staff, and integrate ESG principles into corporate culture.
  4. Document preparation: Check the completeness and accuracy of all documents, taking into account specifics for companies from Asia and the CIS (proof of legal source of funds, transparency of structure).
  5. Interaction with CySEC: Ongoing communication with the regulator, timely responses to requests and revisions are key to accelerating the licensing process.
  6. Choosing a partner: COREDO’s experience shows that a reliable legal and consulting partner minimizes risks and provides comprehensive support at all stages.

Key takeaways and steps for entrepreneurs and executives

Key takeaways and practical steps for entrepreneurs and executives form the basis for decision-making in a rapidly changing market. To properly structure work and achieve sustainable results, it is important to take current requirements and deadlines into account in a timely manner.

Summary table of requirements and deadlines

License type Minimum capital (euro) Timeframes for obtaining (months) Annual fees (euro) Features
Forex broker from 125 000 6–9 from 10 000 Increased supervision, EU passporting
CASP (crypto assets) from 15 000 4–8 from 5 000 MiCA, AML, cybersecurity
investment advisor from 15 000 3–6 from 3 000 Professional requirements for staff
Fintech company from 125 000 6–9 from 10 000 IT and AML, innovative solutions

Checklist for licensing preparation

  • Conduct an audit of the business model and choose the license type
  • Prepare the full document package (KYC, AML, business plan, capital confirmation)
  • Implement internal policies on AML, KYC, ESG and cybersecurity
  • Appoint qualified directors and compliance officers
  • Submit the application through the CySEC online portal
  • Prepare for possible requests and revisions

Recommendations and advice

My experience shows: success in obtaining a CySEC license is determined not only by formal compliance with requirements, but also by a strategic approach to building the business, process transparency and readiness for ongoing dialogue with the regulator.

Solutions implemented by COREDO for international clients prove: comprehensive support, deep analysis of requirements and flexibility in adapting internal procedures allow not only obtaining a license but also creating a foundation for long-term growth.

If you plan to obtain a CySEC license in 2026 – start with a clear strategy, trust experts and invest in transparency. The COREDO team is ready to be your partner at every stage of this journey.

For companies operating in the EU, this is not only a legal obligation but also a key factor of trust from partners, banks and investors. The practice of COREDO confirms: the absence of transparent Customer Due Diligence (CDD) procedures and an ineffective risk-based approach lead to account freezes, denial of service and even criminal liability.

Key concepts of AML, KYC, Compliance

AML (Anti-Money Laundering) – a set of measures to prevent the laundering of criminal proceeds.

At the core: KYC procedures (Know Your Customer), including identification, verification and ongoing monitoring of clients. Compliance in Europe: it is not only about meeting formal requirements, but also about creating an internal culture where risk management is integrated into every business operation.

Objectives of countering money laundering in the EU

The main objective: to prevent the use of the financial system for financing terrorism, tax evasion and corruption.

To this end, the EU implements unified standards, guided by FATF recommendations and strengthens control over cross-border transactions, crypto-assets and new digital services.

EU Regulatory Requirements on AML 2025–2027

Illustration for the section 'EU regulatory requirements on AML 2025–2027' in the article 'AML in the EU — how to comply with requirements'

regulatory requirements of the EU on AML continue to change significantly: in the period 2025–2027 businesses face large-scale innovations affecting not only the financial sector but also cryptocurrencies, real estate and other areas.

At the center of these changes are tighter controls and the harmonization of processes based on updated legislative acts, such as 6AMLD and the new AML Regulation.

Key legislative acts: 6AMLD and the AML Regulation

From 2025, key changes come into force: 6AMLD (Sixth Anti-Money Laundering Directive) and the new AMLR (EU Single Rulebook). These documents unify rules for all EU countries, introduce clear criteria for identifying beneficiaries, expand the list of obliged entities and strengthen requirements for the compliance regulatory framework.

Role of the European Anti-Money Laundering Agency and launch timelines

From 2026, control over compliance will transfer to the European Anti-Money Laundering Agency (AMLA), which will become the centralized supervisory authority. The solution developed by COREDO for clients already takes into account new procedures for interacting with AMLA, including preparation for centralized inspections and unified reporting.

Expansion of persons and sectors under AML supervision

Now under AML control are not only banks and payment organizations, but also crypto platforms, marketplaces, digital wallet providers, as well as services working with digital identification. In a recent COREDO project for a fintech company from the Czech Republic we integrated cross-border compliance taking into account the new requirements for providers of virtual assets.

Impact of MiCA on AML in crypto-assets

With the adoption of the MiCA Regulation (Markets in Crypto-Assets), crypto companies are required to implement full KYC/KYT procedures, transaction monitoring and automated risk analysis. Our experience at COREDO has shown: adapting internal policies to MiCA and AMLR not only helps avoid fines but also increases trust from European banks.

KYC procedures 2025: how to meet the requirements

Illustration for the section «KYC procedures 2025: how to meet the requirements» in the article «AML in the EU - how to meet requirements»

In 2025 KYC procedures and standards move to a new level: requirements for client identification, monitoring and transparency are tightening under the influence of AML reforms and the introduction of digital onboarding, automation and eKYC.

It becomes critically important for businesses to comply with the new KYC requirements in order to preserve reputation, avoid fines and operate successfully in the market amid increasing international regulation.

Overview of KYC procedures in AML compliance

KYC procedures: the fundamental element of AML compliance for businesses. They include collecting and verifying client data, analyzing sources of funds, monitoring transactions and detecting suspicious activity. Without clear KYC processes it is impossible to ensure compliance with the new EU standards.

New KYC standards 2025: eKYC and onboarding

From 2025 the focus shifts to eKYC and digital onboarding: digital identification, remote verification of clients and integration with state registers (eIDAS). Solutions implemented by the COREDO team for clients in Estonia and Slovakia allow reducing verification time from several days to hours, cutting costs and increasing conversion.

Enhanced due diligence: risk-based approach

For clients from high-risk jurisdictions or when working with large transactions Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) is applied. This is an in-depth check of sources of funds, ownership structure and links to politically exposed persons. In one of COREDO’s case studies for a British investment platform we implemented a risk-based approach with automatic reassessment of the risk level whenever the client’s profile changed.

KYC automation and analytics integration

Modern KYC procedures are impossible without automation.

Integration of analytics platforms such as Chainalysis and Elliptic allows detecting complex money laundering schemes through crypto-assets, using Graph Neural Networks (GNN) and confidential machine learning technologies.

At COREDO we assess the ROI from implementing such solutions by reducing manual errors and accelerating compliance processes.

Transaction monitoring and AML: practical aspects

Illustration for the section «Transaction monitoring and AML: practical aspects» in the article «AML in the EU – how to comply with the requirements»
Transaction monitoring and fulfilling AML reporting obligations are key elements of the system to combat financial abuse in modern business. Practical aspects of this work include continuous risk assessment, monitoring of transactions, and preparing reports in accordance with regulators’ requirements. Below we review the main requirements for transaction monitoring and identifying suspicious activity.

Transaction monitoring and detection of suspicious activity

Transaction monitoring: the key to timely detection of suspicious transactions. In 2025 the requirements for automated analysis are rising: systems must not only flag anomalies but also explain the logic behind their decisions (explainable AI). In COREDO’s work for a platform in Dubai we deployed a module that uses graph neural networks to uncover complex chains of transactions among related parties.

AML obligations: deadlines, forms, liability

Companies must file reports on suspicious activities (Suspicious Activity Reporting) to national FIUs (Financial Intelligence Units) within 24–48 hours of detection.

Fines and restrictions on operations are imposed for late or incorrect fulfillment of AML reporting obligations.

COREDO’s solution includes automation of report generation and integration with government portals.

Use of graph neural networks and confidential machine learning

The implementation of confidential machine learning (FHE) and continual learning enables analysis of large volumes of data without exposing personal data, which is critical for GDPR compliance. For example: for an international payment provider, the COREDO team implemented a collaborative risk analysis with partners from different countries without transferring raw data, using homomorphic encryption technologies.

Interaction with FIUs and sanctions control

Effective sanctions screening requires integration with international lists (FATF grey/black lists, AML Blacklist EU) and continuous data updates.

At COREDO we set up automatic checks of customers and transactions for matches against sanctions lists, minimizing the risk of inadvertent violations.

Fines for AML non-compliance: how to avoid them

Illustration for the section “Fines for AML non-compliance: how to avoid them” in the article “AML in the EU — how to meet the requirements”
Failure to comply with AML requirements entails serious fines and risks for businesses — from financial sanctions to a complete suspension of activity. To avoid sanctions, it is important to understand what types of liability are provided by law and how they are applied in practice.

Main fines for AML violations in the EU

Since 2025 the minimum fine for violating AML in the EU is €1 million or 10% of the company’s annual turnover, depending on which amount is higher. For repeat violations, executives may face criminal liability.

In one COREDO case for a Slovak fintech company, we prevented account freezes by timely identifying and remedying shortcomings in compliance risk management.

Examples of global investigations and cases

In 2024 the European AML Authority (AMLA) opened an investigation against a large payment platform for insufficient transaction monitoring and incomplete verification of beneficiaries. The outcome — a €15 million fine and a temporary restriction on operations.

COREDO’s practice shows: regular compliance regulatory audits and stress-testing of internal procedures make it possible to identify vulnerabilities before regulators take interest.

The impact of 6AMLD on stricter liability

6AMLD expands the list of predicate offences, introduces the concept of “aiding and abetting,” and tightens the standards for proving guilt. Liability now extends not only to the company but also to specific employees involved in violations. At COREDO we adapt clients’ internal regulations to the new standards, reducing the risk of personal liability for executives.

Managing compliance risks in business

Effective compliance risk management requires not only the implementation of technology but also regular staff training, procedure reviews, and independent audits. COREDO’s solution includes checklists for assessing the maturity of the compliance system and tools for rapid incident response.

Implementing AML compliance in a company: recommendations

Illustration for the section “Implementing AML compliance in a company: recommendations” in the article “AML in the EU — how to meet the requirements”
Implementing AML compliance in a company requires a systematic approach and a clear understanding of current regulatory requirements. Practical recommendations will help adapt internal regulations to the new EU rules and the 6AMLD, ensuring effective anti-money laundering and legal compliance.

Adapting regulations to EU requirements and the 6AMLD

The first step is reviewing and adapting internal policies in accordance with the 6AMLD and AMLR. The COREDO team develops tailored compliance programs, taking into account industry specifics, business structure and the geography of operations.

It’s important not just to rewrite documents, but to integrate new requirements into daily processes.

Scaling and automation of compliance processes

Scalability is a key challenge for fast-growing companies. Automation of KYC, transaction monitoring and reporting reduces costs and increases the speed of response to incidents. In one of COREDO’s projects for an international marketplace we implemented a compliance workflow integration module, which made it possible to process three times more clients without increasing headcount.

Training staff in a culture of compliance

Effective compliance training: not a one-off event, but an ongoing process. At COREDO we pay special attention to developing a compliance culture: regular training sessions, incident simulations, and experience sharing between departments. This reduces the risk of human error and fosters a responsible approach to risk management.

ROI of implementing AML systems: cost savings and risk reduction

Implementing modern AML systems is an investment with measurable ROI. In COREDO’s case for a payment provider from Cyprus, the automation of KYC and monitoring reduced operating costs by 40% and cut client processing time from 2 days to 30 minutes. But most importantly, the minimization of the risk of fines and account blocks, which ensures business resilience in the long term.

AML compliance in the EU: key steps

In the context of tightening regulatory requirements, AML compliance in the EU is becoming a key issue for businesses. New directives, the digitalization of procedures and greater transaction transparency require not only formal fulfillment of obligations but also real implementation of advanced compliance standards. Below are the key findings and practical steps that will help entrepreneurs and executives prepare for changes and ensure the sustainable development of the company.

Recommendations for entrepreneurs and managers

  • Conduct an audit of current procedures and identify gaps in compliance with 6AMLD and AMLR.
  • Implement digital KYC and automated transaction monitoring.
  • Organize regular staff training and stress-testing of the compliance system.
  • Use modern analytics platforms to detect complex money laundering schemes.

Heading analysis

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Preparing for new AML requirements

  1. Assess the maturity of the compliance system using the COREDO checklist.
  2. Update internal regulations and implement eKYC, digital onboarding.
  3. Integrate automated monitoring and reporting tools.
  4. Set up cooperation with FIUs and sanctions lists.
  5. Regularly review procedures taking into account changes in EU legislation.

How to choose a partner for legal support and compliance?

When choosing a partner, pay attention to experience with international projects, availability of case studies on AML system implementation, expertise in adapting to different jurisdictions and the ability to integrate technologies (Chainalysis, Elliptic, GNN). COREDO’s practice is not only consulting, but also comprehensive end-to-end implementation of compliance processes.

Useful resources and AMLA contacts

  • Official AMLA portal: current requirements, reporting forms, recommendations for businesses.
  • EU Beneficial Owners Register: for checking ownership structures.
  • Platforms for monitoring sanctions and risks: Chainalysis, Elliptic, international FIUs.

Table of changes to AML requirements under the directives

Aspect Previous directives New EU AML Regulation and 6AMLD Practical implications for businesses
Supervision National Centralized through AMLA Unified standards, enhanced oversight
Obliged entities Banks, insurers Expanded list (crypto, platforms, etc.) More obligations for new sectors
KYC procedures Standard eKYC, digital onboarding, EDD Adoption of digital technologies and automation
Liability and penalties Less strict Tightening under 6AMLD Risks of large fines and criminal liability
Monitoring and reporting Fragmented Unified, with expanded monitoring More frequent and detailed reports
Implementing effective AML compliance is not only a matter of complying with the law, but also a strategic advantage.

The solutions that the COREDO team implements for clients in Europe, Asia and the CIS not only enable compliance with the new requirements, but also create a resilient, transparent and scalable business ready for future challenges.

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