Lithuania Cracks Down on Unlicensed Crypto Firms as MiCA Enforcement Looms
Lithuania is escalating its regulatory stance on cryptocurrency firms, marking a decisive shift from tolerance to stringent oversight. Beginning January 1, 2026, any crypto business operating without a MiCA license will face severe penalties, including fines, website blocks, and potential criminal charges. The move positions Lithuania as a frontrunner in Europe’s push to enforce MiCA regulations.
With over 370 registered crypto entities in the country—only 120 actively operating—the central bank, Lietuvos Bankas, has set a hard deadline of December 31 for compliance. Alarmingly, fewer than 10% of firms have applied for the required license, leaving hundreds exposed to enforcement actions. Regulators warn of aggressive measures: unlicensed operators risk financial penalties, forced shutdowns, and even prison sentences of up to four years.
