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Top 5 jurisdictions to obtain EMI license in 2025
The European Payment Services Directive (PSD2) has been the catalyst for a surge in the number of EMIs across Europe. In this article, we take a look at the top 5 jurisdictions for obtaining an EMI license in 2025.
1. Ireland
Ireland’s favorable regulatory climate coupled with its business-friendly attitude has made it a popular choice among EMI license applicants. The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) oversees the issuance of EMI licenses, and its relatively simple application process and transparent guidelines have attracted many fintech companies. Ireland’s English-speaking population and proximity to the UK market provide additional advantages. Key Strengths: Competitive licensing costs, favorable tax regime, skilled workforce and strong reputation as a fintech hub. Challenges: Stringent capital requirements and ongoing compliance obligations.
2. Netherlands
An attractive jurisdiction for fintech companies due to its strategic geographic location, stable economy and developed payment system infrastructure. DNB (Netherlands Bank) actively supports the development of the fintech sector and cooperates with companies wishing to obtain an EMI license. Amsterdam, the financial center of the Netherlands, has become home to many international companies. Key advantages: Strategic geographical location in the center of Europe. Stable economy and political system. Well-developed infrastructure of payment systems and financial technologies. Challenges: High competition from other European financial centers. Language barrier.
3. Sweden
Finansinspektionen (Swedish Financial Authority) actively supports the development of the fintech sector and creates a favorable environment for innovation. Sweden also offers a stable political situation and a reputation as a reliable and transparent jurisdiction. Key advantages: High level of digitalization and innovation. Favorable regulatory environment for fintech companies. High quality of life and attractiveness for talented professionals. Challenges: Relatively small domestic market. High corporate taxes.
4. Malta
Malta has established itself as a fintech hub in the Mediterranean region, offering a favorable regulatory framework and a competitive tax regime. The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) regulates the issuance of EMI licenses, and the efficient application process and favorable approach have attracted many fintech companies. Malta’s English-speaking population and strategic location provide access to European and African markets. Key Strengths: Competitive license fees, favorable tax incentives and strategic location. Challenges: Smaller market size compared to major European countries and potential scaling issues.
5. Luxembourg
Luxembourg, the financial center of Europe, offers a stable and well-regulated environment for fintech companies. The Financial Sector Supervisory Commission (CSSF) regulates the issuance of EMI licenses, and a rigorous application process ensures high compliance standards. Luxembourg’s strong reputation as a financial center and its proximity to other major European markets make it an attractive option for fintech companies looking to establish a presence in the region. Key Strengths: Strong reputation as a financial center, favorable tax regime and access to a large European market. Challenges: Higher licensing costs and stricter regulatory requirements compared to some other jurisdictions.
