# UK crypto regulation timeline — 2026 to 2027 explained

The FCA finalised UK crypto rules on 30 June 2026. Firms must apply for authorisation between 30 September 2026 and 28 February 2027. The mandatory regime starts 25 October 2027. Until then, check the FCA register — most firms are only AML-registered today. Crypto stays high-risk; FSCS does not protect most holdings.

## Key facts
- 30 June 2026: FCA sets final landmark crypto rules.
- February 2026: cryptoassets brought into FCA remit by Parliament.
- July 2026: pre-application support meetings for firms.
- 30 September 2026 – 28 February 2027: authorisation application window.
- 25 October 2027: mandatory regime in force.
- In scope: exchanges, custodians, intermediaries, stablecoin issuers, staking arrangers.
- Rules cover capital, stress testing, market integrity and stablecoin standards.
- Regulation does not remove investment risk or guarantee profits.

## What the FCA announced (June 2026)

On 30 June 2026 the FCA set final rules for firms that help people buy, trade and hold crypto. Firms must meet financial resilience standards including capital and stress testing. New market integrity rules cover insider trading and market manipulation. Stablecoins face dedicated standards — simplified from consultation for capital, with trading rules tailored to how crypto markets work. Consumer Duty applies where risks are comparable to other financial services.
## Who must get FCA authorisation

Crypto trading platforms, intermediaries, custodians, stablecoin issuers and firms arranging staking must obtain FCA authorisation to operate in the UK. MLR registration alone will not be enough for in-scope activities after 25 October 2027.
## Key dates for firms and consumers

Pre-application support meetings are available from July 2026. The authorisation window runs 30 September 2026 to 28 February 2027. The mandatory regime begins 25 October 2027. Until then, FCA crypto oversight is limited to financial promotions and anti-money laundering controls.
## What stays the same for consumers

Crypto remains high-risk. The FCA cannot regulate away the risk of loss. FSCS protection will not apply to most crypto holdings even after full authorisation. Always check the FCA register, read risk warnings and assume you could lose all your money.

## FAQs
### Is crypto legal after 2027?

Yes. Regulation sets standards for firms — it does not ban individuals from owning crypto.
### What changed in June 2026?

The FCA moved from consultation to final rules — confirming capital, market integrity and stablecoin requirements ahead of the October 2027 go-live.

## Sources

- [FCA — Landmark crypto rules press release (30 June 2026)](https://www.fca.org.uk/news/press-releases/fca-sets-landmark-crypto-rules-cement-uks-place-global-hub)
- [FCA — New regime for cryptoasset regulation](https://www.fca.org.uk/firms/new-regime-cryptoasset-regulation)
- [Legislation — FSMA Cryptoassets Regulations 2026](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2026/102/made)

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— Digital Assets UK (https://digital-assets.co.uk/regulation/fca-crypto-regime-2027/), reviewed 2026-06-30. Source: https://www.fca.org.uk/news/press-releases/fca-sets-landmark-crypto-rules-cement-uks-place-global-hub