France’s financial markets regulator has intensified pressure on cryptocurrency companies operating in the European Union. It warned that firms must secure authorization under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework by June 30, 2026, or face enforcement action. This move marks one of the strongest regulatory signals yet. Europe is pushing forward with its comprehensive crypto oversight regime.
France’s AMF Tightens Crypto Compliance Requirements
The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), France’s primary financial regulator, has urged Digital Asset Service Providers (DASPs) to complete their MiCA licensing applications immediately. According to AMF President Marie-Anne Barbat-Layani, the deadline is approaching rapidly.
The warning comes as the European Union finalizes implementation of MiCA, the landmark crypto regulation designed to create a unified legal framework across all 27 EU member states. Once authorized in one member country, a crypto company can generally use its license to operate throughout the bloc. This system is known as “passporting.”
What the MiCA Regulation Means for Crypto Businesses
MiCA, formally adopted in 2023 and fully applicable since late 2024, introduces standardized requirements for crypto exchanges, wallet providers, trading platforms, and other crypto-asset service providers. The regulation focuses on transparency, investor protection, anti-money laundering controls, governance standards, and operational resilience.
France previously allowed existing registered crypto firms to continue operating under a transitional regime. However, that grace period expires on July 1, 2026. This means firms must obtain MiCA authorization before the end of June if they wish to continue offering services legally.
The AMF has also instructed firms that do not intend to pursue authorization to establish orderly wind-down plans. Regulators expect such companies to cease onboarding customers and gradually close operations while protecting client assets and investor interests.
Regulatory Concerns Over Slow Licensing Progress
Recent reports indicate that many crypto businesses have yet to complete the licensing process. Earlier statements from French regulators suggested that only a portion of unlicensed firms had submitted MiCA applications. Meanwhile, several companies remained undecided about their future within the European market.
This slow adoption rate has raised concerns among regulators, particularly as the deadline approaches. The AMF has emphasized that application quality is just as important as timing. Regulators encourage companies to submit comprehensive compliance documentation to avoid delays.
EU Crypto Regulation Faces Cross-Border Challenges
While MiCA is intended to harmonize crypto regulation across Europe, French officials have repeatedly expressed concerns about differences in how national regulators interpret and enforce the rules. Some EU countries have been criticized for approving licenses more quickly than others. This has created fears of regulatory arbitrage.
French authorities have even suggested they could challenge passporting arrangements if they believe a license was granted under insufficient scrutiny. The debate highlights ongoing tensions within the EU regarding how crypto supervision should be coordinated at the regional level.
Outlook for the European Crypto Industry
As the June 30 deadline nears, Europe’s crypto sector faces a critical compliance milestone. Firms that successfully obtain MiCA authorization will gain access to one of the world’s largest regulated digital asset markets. Those who fail to comply risk losing access to EU customers and facing legal consequences.
The AMF’s latest warning signals that regulators are unlikely to grant additional flexibility. The message reinforces Europe’s position as one of the most heavily regulated cryptocurrency jurisdictions globally.
