Bitvavo MiCA License Approved by Dutch Regulator

Dutch crypto exchange gains regulatory green light for EU-wide operations

Bitvavo has officially received a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license from the Dutch Authority for Financial Markets (AFM). This license allows the crypto exchange to operate across Europe under the EU’s new regulatory framework.

The license approval, announced on Friday, is a key milestone for Bitvavo as it expands compliance and aligns with MiCA’s uniform crypto oversight across the EU.

Bitvavo MiCA License Adds Confidence and Clarity

In a public statement, Bitvavo co-founder and CEO Mark Nuvelstijn supported MiCA, saying consistent enforcement is key to a level playing field across Europe. The Bitvavo MiCA license grants the company legal clarity and investor confidence as it scales operations throughout the region.

MiCA was introduced to unify crypto regulation in the EU, aiming to protect investors, foster innovation, and reduce regulatory gaps. The licensing process opened on January 1, 2025, with crypto firms actively pursuing registration since then.

Risk Officer Praises Regulatory Collaboration

Bitvavo’s chief risk officer Jeetan Patel described the licensing process as rigorous but efficient. He emphasized the platform’s full compliance with MiCA’s detailed requirements and praised the AFM for its constructive engagement throughout the process.

“We highly value the collaboration with the AFM,” Patel said. “The process has progressed efficiently, and we’re proud to meet the full set of regulatory obligations under MiCA.”

Europe Sees a Wave of MiCA Approvals

The Bitvavo MiCA license adds to a growing list of approvals across Europe. Just days earlier, Kraken received its MiCA license from Ireland’s central bank, while Coinbase gained similar approval from Luxembourg on June 21.

On May 29, Bybit became MiCA-compliant via Austria’s Financial Market Authority. These approvals reflect a broader shift toward regulatory clarity in the region, which has encouraged crypto adoption and trading activity.

Paybis co-founder Konstantins Vasilenko noted that EU trading volumes rose by 70% in Q1 2025, following MiCA’s rollout. The Bitvavo MiCA license supports this trend, positioning the Dutch exchange for growth in Europe’s regulated digital asset market.