MiCAR Authorisation Race: Where Ireland Stands

As the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) authorisation process gathers momentum across Europe, we’re beginning to see the first firms cross the finish line. Several European jurisdictions have now granted approvals, and in Ireland, the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has approved its first MiCAR application: Kraken.

That milestone is significant. It shows that Ireland is very much in the game and that the CBI’s process works for firms that are prepared, resourced, and committed. But it also highlights the reality that many applicants remain stuck in the early or middle stages of their journey.

Why Some Irish Applicants Are Struggling

From our conversations in the market, it’s clear that the main barrier to progress isn’t the CBI’s approach. In fact, by European regulatory standards, the CBI has been transparent, pragmatic, and consistent in how it applies MiCAR requirements.

Instead, the bigger challenge is the reality of becoming a regulated entity:

• Operational Overhaul – Applicants must meet high standards on governance, systems, and controls, often requiring significant restructuring.

• Cost of Compliance – The expense of hiring experienced compliance, risk, and finance professionals, coupled with investment in systems and ongoing oversight, is proving steep for some.

• Sustained Readiness – MiCAR isn’t just about getting authorised, it’s about staying compliant every day, which means cultural and operational change at every level.

  
  

For some Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), these hurdles are slowing their progress. Others are rethinking whether they can meet the obligations at all.

How Finvisor is Helping Firms Move Forward

At Finvisor, we’re working closely with both existing VASPs and new entrants to the Irish and European markets. Our approach focuses on:

• Milestone-Based Delivery – Breaking down the authorisation journey into manageable, measurable steps.

• Practical Readiness – Ensuring that policies, procedures, and systems aren’t just “CBI-ready” but also operationally effective.

• Bridging Expertise Gaps – Providing access to seasoned compliance and risk professionals without the overhead of full-time hires.

  
  

The results speak for themselves: firms we support are moving from milestone to milestone with confidence, avoiding unnecessary delays and minimising rework.

Looking Ahead

MiCAR is a defining moment for Europe’s digital asset industry. The CBI has shown it will approve well-prepared applicants, but the path is challenging and resource-intensive.

Those who embrace the operational and cultural shift to life as a regulated entity will be the ones crossing the finish line in the months ahead.

At Finvisor, we’re proud to be guiding firms through that journey and helping Ireland take its place as a trusted, competitive hub for regulated crypto-asset services.