FCA opens cryptoasset pre-application meetings from May 11
Cryptoasset firms seeking FCA authorisation must request PASS meetings before formal applications open
Change
The FCA opened PASS meeting requests for cryptoasset firms from May 11, 2026, ahead of the September 30, 2026 authorisation gateway and the October 25, 2027 start of the new FSMA regime.
Why it matters
Cryptoasset authorisation planning now has a dated FCA engagement route before the formal application gateway opens. Firms preparing for authorisation or variation of permissions must sequence PASS meeting requests, July meeting preparation, September gateway readiness and final FSMA regime implementation.
Implications
- — Cryptoasset firms seeking FCA pre-application engagement must request PASS meetings from May 11, 2026 before formal authorisation applications open.
- — Cryptoasset authorisation teams must prepare business-model, permissions and compliance questions before FCA meetings begin in July 2026.
- — Regulatory programme owners at cryptoasset firms must align application readiness with the September 30, 2026 gateway and the October 25, 2027 commencement of the new FSMA regime.
Who is affected
- — Cryptoasset authorisation teams
- — Regulatory programme owners at cryptoasset firms
- — Compliance teams at cryptoasset firms seeking FCA authorisation or variation of permissions
What to watch
- — PASS request window opens: May 11, 2026
- — FCA pre-application meetings begin: July 2026
- — Authorisation gateway opens: September 30, 2026
- — New FSMA cryptoasset regime commences: October 25, 2027