Why crypto companies choose Lithuania, Czech Republic, Estonia, and AdamSmith Law’s key role

As MiCA reshapes crypto regulation in Europe, Lithuania, Czechia, and Estonia are emerging as top launchpads, and AdamSmith Law Office is helping firms get in early and stay compliant.

The clock is ticking for crypto businesses across the European Union. With the landmark Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, companies that want to operate legally in Europe must start preparing now. There’s still time — and there are still jurisdictions offering real advantages for early movers.

Enter Lithuania, the Czech Republic, and Estonia, three countries that are quickly becoming strategic gateways into the EU’s new crypto regime. And guiding companies through this transition is AdamSmith Law Office, an international legal firm with a strong track record in crypto licensing and regulatory compliance.

Lithuania: Europe’s most practical crypto hub

Lithuania is more than just crypto-friendly, it’s crypto-ready. With fast company registration, transparent licensing procedures, and an approachable regulatory environment, Lithuania has become one of the top destinations for startups and web3 firms looking to enter the European market.

And there’s a big advantage: Lithuanian regulators have extended the transition period to MiCA until January 1, 2026. That gives crypto companies with existing VASP (Virtual Asset Service Provider) licenses an extra year to prepare for full CASP (Crypto-Asset Service Provider) compliance, without interrupting their business operations.

“This is a golden window,” says Dmitry Malyshev, a regulatory expert at AdamSmith Law Office. “It gives companies breathing room, and a safe runway into MiCA compliance without panic or penalties.”

Lithuania stands out by offering a notably clear and accommodating regulatory framework for obtaining a crypto license. As the primary registration center for the majority of European Payment Service Providers (PSPs) and Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs), Lithuania is expected to extend a similarly favorable and supportive stance towards crypto companies, enabling them to operate with minimal governmental constraints.

Czech Republic: Dual licensing options, VASP vs. CASP

The Czech Republic has emerged as one of the most flexible EU jurisdictions for crypto businesses following the implementation of the MiCA regulation. Companies can now choose between two distinct licensing frameworks, VASP and CASP, or operate under both simultaneously.

VASP — applies to activities outside the full scope of MiCA, including:

●      P2P crypto trading

●      NFT marketplaces

●      Basic non-custodial wallets

CASP — regulated under MiCA, required for:

●      Custody of crypto assets

●      Centralized exchanges

●  Issuance and offering of crypto assets

In the Czech Republic, crypto companies can strategically leverage both licenses: use VASP for innovative, lightly regulated services and CASP for MiCA-compliant operations. This dual-track approach provides regulatory flexibility without sacrificing growth potential.

“For nimble startups or established players looking to test the EU market before scaling, Czechia is the move,” says Dmitry. “You get the legitimacy of EU operations now, with space to grow into regulation gradually.”

The firm also coordinates with Czech regulatory bodies, Financial Analysis Authority (FAÚ) and the Czech National Bank (Česká Národní Banka), to smooth every step of the licensing process.

Estonia: Where only the strongest thrive and expand

Once known as the go-to jurisdiction for quick crypto licenses, Estonia has shifted gears. High capital thresholds, real operational presence, and a full embrace of MiCA’s toughest standards. In 2025, Estonia will require crypto companies to apply for a CASP license, with no shortcuts.

What’s changing?

• Share capital minimums: €50,000–150,000
• Mandatory compliance officers and real local staff
• Regulatory scrutiny equal to traditional finance firms

However, for companies ready to go institutional, whether crypto funds, custody services, or large-scale platforms, Estonia now offers credibility few other jurisdictions can match.

Estonia stands out as one of the most advanced digital states. Its cutting-edge digital infrastructure and user-friendly online services significantly simplify interactions with public authorities. The ability to submit documents, register companies, and complete the entire licensing process fully online makes Estonia a preferred jurisdiction for those who value speed and efficiency.

AdamSmith Law Office: Trusted by crypto founders around the globe

AdamSmith Law Office is an international law firm specializing in cryptocurrency regulation, fintech law, company structuring, and compliance consulting. The firm is known for its practical, results-driven approach and deep understanding of regulatory frameworks across Europe, North America, and Asia.

With more than 1000 crypto licenses issued across the EU, AdamSmith Law Office has become one of the most respected names in crypto legal consulting. But what sets the firm apart isn’t just paperwork, it’s strategy.

To learn more about MiCA adaptation, visit this page.