EMI license in Latvia
Latvia is one of the fastest and most cost-effective gateways into Europe's payments ecosystem, with full passporting across 27 EU member states and 3 EFTA countries under PSD2.
What this enables
Fiat
Fiat payment activities
CASP
Crypto activities — available via CASP registration (add-on)
Whis this is for
This structure is suited to:
Payment institutions seeking EU market access without establishing in a high-cost jurisdiction
Crypto businesses that want to combine fiat and digital asset operations under one regulatory framework
Fintech companies building e-money, card, or remittance products
Companies that need EU passporting to serve clients across multiple member states
This is not the right fit if:
You are not prepared to commit the required share capital (€350,000 for EMI)
Your primary model is crypto-only and does not require fiat payment services — a standalone CASP registration may be more appropriate
You need operational banking in place before the license is granted
Registration process
Included in scope
Not included
Optional add-on
Costs and regulatory requirements
EMI License
CASP add-on (if applicable)
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine the EMI and CASP registrations?
Yes. Latvia's regulatory framework allows a single entity to hold both. The applications can be structured and submitted concurrently, which is the more efficient path for businesses operating at the intersection of fiat payment services and crypto asset services.
Does the license give me access to all EU member states immediately?
The EMI license provides full passporting rights under PSD2 across 27 EU member states and 3 EFTA countries. Passporting requires notification to the relevant host country regulators. DM Strategy handles this as part of the engagement.
What is the minimum share capital required?
The EMI license requires €350,000 in share capital. For a CASP add-on, the requirement depends on the class: €50,000 for Class I, €125,000 for Class II, and €150,000 for Class III. Share capital is retained within the licensed entity.
Do I need to be physically present in Latvia?
A registered office and local compliance presence are required by the regulator. DM Strategy assists with both. Permanent physical presence of the founding team is not required.
What are the ongoing obligations after the license is granted?
Annual supervision fees, AML/CTF reporting, and ongoing compliance with Bank of Latvia requirements. DM Strategy can provide post-licensing compliance support as a separate engagement.
Understand your regulatory path before starting
The initial call covers your business model, licensing objectives, and whether the EMI structure is the right path before you commit to the engagement.
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