The fintech industry is booming, and many companies seek offshore jurisdictions to benefit from favorable regulations, tax advantages, and simplified access to international markets. However, choosing the right jurisdiction for an offshore fintech license is crucial to ensuring your company’s viability and compliance.

In this article, we analyze the best destinations for obtaining a fintech license in 2025, focusing on Gibraltar, Lithuania, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) while detailing the key steps in the application process.

Why Obtain an Offshore Fintech License?

An offshore fintech license allows a company to offer regulated financial services, such as electronic payments, digital currency issuance, or investment portfolio management, while benefiting from more flexible regulations and tax optimization. The key benefits include:

• Tax Optimization: Some jurisdictions offer low or even zero tax rates.
• Access to Global Markets: A license from a well-regulated jurisdiction enables international operations.
• Flexible Regulatory Framework: Compliance requirements tailored for growing businesses.
• Reputation and Credibility: An offshore license in a recognized jurisdiction boosts investor and customer confidence.

Best Jurisdictions for an Offshore Fintech License in 2025

1. Gibraltar: A Pioneer in European Fintech Regulation

Gibraltar has become a major hub for fintech and crypto companies, thanks to its clear and attractive regulatory framework.

• Regulatory Authority: Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC).
• Types of Available Fintech Licenses: EMI (Electronic Money Institution), PSP (Payment Service Provider), DLT (Distributed Ledger Technology, for blockchain companies).
• Key Requirements:
  • Minimum capital: £100,000 to £350,000, depending on the activity.
  • Physical office in Gibraltar is mandatory.
  • Strict compliance and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements.
• Taxation:
  • Corporate tax rate of 12.5%.
  • No VAT or capital gains tax.

Thus, Gibraltar is particularly attractive for blockchain and cryptocurrency companies, as it offers a clear legal framework and access to the European market.

2. Lithuania: The Gateway to Europe and the EEA

Thanks to its streamlined regulations and close ties with the European Central Bank, Lithuania has emerged as one of Europe’s top fintech hubs.

• Regulatory Authority: Bank of Lithuania.
• Types of Available Fintech Licenses: EMI (Electronic Money Institution), PI (Payment Institution), Crypto-exchange (subject to compliance).
• Key Requirements:
  • Minimum capital: €350,000 for an EMI, €20,000 for a Payment Institution.
  • Physical office in Lithuania required, but outsourcing some functions is possible.
  • Deposit of security funds to protect clients.
• Taxation:
  • Corporate tax rate of 15%.
  • No restrictions on foreign ownership.

Since Lithuania is an EU member, a fintech license obtained here allows businesses to operate across the European Economic Area (EEA) without needing additional licenses.

3. United Arab Emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi): A Fast-Growing Destination

The financial free zones of Dubai (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi (ADGM) attract many fintech firms due to their tax advantages and modern regulatory framework.

• Regulatory Authorities:
  • Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
  • Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).
• Types of Available Fintech Licenses: EMI, PSP, Crypto Trading, Crowdfunding.
• Key Requirements:
  • Minimum capital: $250,000 to $500,000, depending on the activity.
  • Physical office in the free zone is required.
  • Strict compliance with international AML/CFT regulations.
• Taxation:
  • 0% corporate tax in free zones for 50 years.
  • No withholding tax on dividends or interest.

The UAE is an excellent alternative to European jurisdictions for fintech companies looking to operate in emerging markets across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

How to Obtain an Offshore Fintech License?

Obtaining an offshore fintech license involves several key steps:

1. Choosing the right jurisdiction based on business needs.
2. Incorporating a local entity in the selected jurisdiction.
3. Preparing a comprehensive application that includes:
   • A detailed business plan.
   • AML/KYC compliance measures.
   • Proof of sufficient funds to meet capital requirements.
4. Setting up a physical office and hiring a local team if required.
5. Undergoing regulatory audits and compliance checks before final approval.

Conclusion

Obtaining an offshore fintech license is a crucial step for companies looking to expand into global markets while optimizing their regulatory and tax structures. Gibraltar, Lithuania, and the UAE stand out as the top options in 2025 due to their clear legal frameworks, competitive tax policies, and growing fintech ecosystems.

Mundo Offshore can guide you in selecting the ideal jurisdiction and managing the entire licensing process. Contact us today for tailored offshore business solutions.