France’s AMF Issues MiCA Ultimatum: Crypto Firms Must Comply by July 2026

ByVictor

📋 En bref (TL;DR)

  • Absolute deadline: Crypto providers must obtain their MiCA license before July 1, 2026 to continue operating in France
  • Early cessation: The AMF recommends an orderly wind-down of operations by March 30, 2026 for non-compliant firms
  • Severe penalties: Up to 2 years in prison and €30,000 fine for violators
  • Current status: 83 out of 117 providers have already obtained their MiCA license in France
  • 34 laggards: Over a quarter of French platforms still without a license, including Binance
  • Review timeline: Expect at least 4 months for the AMF to process a complete application
  • European framework: MiCA harmonizes crypto regulation across all 27 EU member states

France’s Financial Markets Authority (AMF) has just made a major move. In a statement published on February 5, 2026, the French regulator issued a firm reminder to digital asset service providers: the transitional period is coming to an end. Within just a few months, crypto platforms not compliant with the European MiCA regulation will have to shut down.

This announcement comes amid a profound transformation of the European regulatory landscape. As the European Union finalizes the harmonization of its legal framework for crypto-assets, France is positioning itself as one of the most demanding markets in terms of compliance.

MiCA France 2026 Infographic - Timeline for crypto providers compliance
📊 MiCA 2026 Timeline: Key dates for French crypto providers

What is MiCA and why does it matter?

The Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) is the first comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies in the European Union. Adopted in 2023, it establishes uniform rules for all 27 member states, replacing the patchwork of national regulations that previously existed.

For France, this means transitioning from the PSAN (Digital Asset Service Provider) registration system to the new CASP (Crypto-Asset Service Provider) licensing regime. This change represents a significant increase in regulatory requirements.

The AMF’s ultimatum: Key dates

March 31, 2026: Application deadline

The AMF has been clear: any provider wishing to continue operations must submit a complete CASP license application by March 31, 2026 at the latest. Given the 4-month average processing time, this deadline is already extremely tight.

July 1, 2026: End of transitional period

This is the fateful date. Starting July 1, 2026, only licensed CASPs will be authorized to offer crypto services in France. All other providers will have to cease their activities immediately.

Current status: Who is compliant?

According to the latest figures, 83 providers out of 117 registered PSANs have already obtained their MiCA license. This means that 34 platforms – over a quarter of the market – are still not compliant.

Among the notable absentees: Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange, has not yet obtained its French CASP license. The platform had to halt certain services in France and is currently working to meet the new requirements.

Penalties for non-compliance

The AMF does not mince words about penalties. Continuing to provide crypto services without a license after July 1, 2026 will constitute a criminal offense punishable by:

  • Up to 2 years imprisonment
  • A €30,000 fine
  • Additional administrative sanctions

What does this mean for French investors?

For users, this regulatory transition has several implications:

  • Platform verification: Check that your exchange has its CASP license before July 2026
  • Potential migration: Some platforms may exit the French market, requiring users to transfer their assets
  • Enhanced protection: Compliant platforms will offer stronger consumer protections

A European harmonization

Beyond France, MiCA represents a major step for European crypto regulation. For the first time, a crypto company licensed in one EU country can operate across all 27 member states through the “passporting” mechanism.

This harmonization should strengthen Europe’s position as a crypto hub while providing increased protection for investors.

📚 Glossary

  • PSAN: Digital Asset Service Provider – the former French registration system for crypto platforms.
  • CASP: Crypto-Asset Service Provider – the new European license under MiCA regulation.
  • MiCA: Markets in Crypto-Assets – EU regulation harmonizing crypto rules across all 27 member states.
  • AMF: Autorité des Marchés Financiers – the French financial markets regulator.
  • Passporting: Mechanism allowing a company licensed in one EU country to operate across all member states.
  • Transitional period: Grace period allowing previously registered providers to continue operations while obtaining new licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MiCA and when does it come into effect?

MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) is the EU’s comprehensive crypto regulation. In France, the transitional period ends on July 1, 2026, after which only licensed CASPs can operate.

What happens to crypto platforms without a MiCA license?

Platforms without a CASP license must cease operations by July 1, 2026. Operating without a license can result in up to 2 years in prison and €30,000 in fines.

How many French platforms already have their MiCA license?

As of February 2026, 83 out of 117 registered PSANs have obtained their MiCA license. 34 platforms, including Binance, are still working on compliance.

What should French crypto investors do?

Verify that your exchange has or is obtaining a CASP license. Consider migrating to a compliant platform if needed before the July 2026 deadline.

Can a MiCA license from another EU country work in France?

Yes, MiCA introduces “passporting” – a license from any EU country allows operation across all 27 member states.

📰 Sources

This article is based on the following sources:

How to cite this article: Fibo Crypto. (2026). France’s AMF Issues MiCA Ultimatum: Crypto Firms Must Comply by July 2026. Retrieved from fibo-crypto.fr