Regulation (EU) 2023/1114

Markets in Crypto-Assets, explained

MiCA is the EU's comprehensive framework for crypto-assets not already covered by existing financial-services law. It applies across all member states and phases in through 2024–2026.

The four pillars of MiCA

01

Crypto-asset service providers

CASPs — exchanges, custodians, brokers — must be authorised by a national competent authority and meet governance, prudential and conduct requirements.

02

Asset-referenced tokens

ARTs reference a basket of assets, currencies or crypto. Issuers face reserve, governance and disclosure obligations proportional to scale.

03

E-money tokens

EMTs reference a single fiat currency. Only authorised credit or e-money institutions may issue them, with full redemption at par.

04

Market integrity

Rules against insider dealing and market manipulation, plus mandatory white-paper disclosure for public offers.

Implementation timeline

Jun 2023
MiCA enters into force
Jun 2024
Stablecoin (ART / EMT) provisions apply
Dec 2024
Full CASP authorisation regime applies
2025–26
Transitional grandfathering for existing firms
Jul 2026
Most national transitional windows close

Explore who's authorised

See how these rules translate into real authorisations across the register.

Open the register →