Our available CySEC STP licenses in Cyprus
A CySEC STP (Straight-Through Processing) licence is a Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) authorisation issued by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under Law 87(I)/2017 — Cyprus’s transposition of MiFID II. It authorises firms to receive and transmit orders, execute orders on behalf of clients, provide investment advice, and conduct portfolio management — with trades routed directly to liquidity providers without the firm taking a principal position.
The STP model eliminates the conflict of interest inherent in market-making: the broker’s revenue comes from spreads and commissions rather than from trading against clients. This structure is well-regarded by institutional counterparties, PSPs, and liquidity providers, and is widely used by forex and CFD brokers targeting EU retail and professional clients.
Key parameters: €150,000 minimum capital, at least four directors (minimum three Cyprus-resident), and a genuine Cyprus operational presence. The 12.5% corporate income tax — among the lowest in the EU — combined with EU passporting across all 30 EEA member states makes Cyprus one of the most commercially practical MiFID jurisdictions. A new CySEC application realistically takes 12–16 months; a ready-made CySEC STP entity compresses market entry significantly.
This page covers CySEC STP-licensed CIF entities currently available for transfer, with a full breakdown of permitted services, capital requirements, and the CySEC change-of-control process.
Legasset’s support covers both ready-made CySEC acquisitions and new CIF applications — capital planning, fit-and-proper documentation, CySEC liaison, and post-approval setup.
Our Available CYSEC Licenses for SAle
Cysec License in Cyprus for Sale
- Company is licensed for 7 years.
- Company has bank account for both B2B purposes and client funds.
- Clean records, never had any issues.
- Cross boarded in the entire EU.
- Company has all the permissions.
CIF STP+PM Company For Sale
- Established for over 5 years
- 2 bank accounts
- Connected to Safecharge Services Ltd & Skrill Ltd.
- 2 directors
- Fully compliant & clean record
- Net Asset Value: approximately €775,000
Licensed Investment Services:
- Order Execution, Reception & Transmission
- Professional Portfolio Management
Investment Firm Cysec For Sale
Key features include:
- Active License (2022): Ready for immediate activation.
- Dormant Status: No ongoing business activity, ensuring clean records.
- Regulatory Standing: No compliance issues.
- Banking Relationships: Corporate bank accounts in Cyprus and Switzerland (UBS), with a SWIFT code and Union Registry (EU-ETS) account in Cyprus.
- Team Continuity: Current team available for transition assistance.
- Growth Potential: Easy upgrade to a Market Maker license.
The company has regulatory permissions for portfolio management and investment advice, covering various derivative contracts, transferable securities, money-market instruments, and units in collective investment undertakings. It also offers ancillary services such as granting credits/loans, advice on capital structure/mergers, and foreign exchange services connected to investment services.
Related Cyprus and EU investment firm licences
Key Takeaways for CySEC STP Licenses in Cyprus
- Launch your business across the EU. With a ready-made CySEC STP license, you can start operations with exclusive time efficiency, saving months compared to the traditional application process.
- Expand your reach with EU passporting rights. Licensed under CySEC regulation, your firm can seamlessly operate in 27 EU countries under MiFID II, giving you access to a massive client base without additional licensing hurdles.
- Benefit from strict compliance standards that build trust. Adhering to comprehensive AML/KYC policies and undergoing regular audits ensures your business gains credibility and attracts clients seeking regulated financial services.
- Take advantage of Cyprus’s tax-efficient setup. With a 12.5% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the EU, and access to double-taxation treaties, your business can optimize operational costs while maintaining compliance.
- Enjoy personalized compliance and operational support. Legasset offers ongoing guidance for regulatory reporting, audits, and adapting to evolving CySEC regulations, so you can focus on growing your business.
Tailored for dynamic financial service providers. Whether you’re a forex broker, CFD provider, or investment firm, this license provides scalable solutions designed to meet the demands of the European market.
What You Need to Know About the CySEC STP License in Cyprus
Table of Contents
For financial service providers looking to expand in Europe, a CySEC STP license in Cyprus is the gold standard. But why is it so valuable? For one, it allows firms to legally operate across the European Economic Area (EEA) under the framework of MiFID II, ensuring access to some of the world’s most lucrative markets. At the same time, Cyprus offers one of the most business-friendly environments in Europe, with low taxes and streamlined compliance procedures.
The license isn’t just about compliance; it’s about trust. Regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), it signals credibility to clients, investors, and partners. For instance, an STP forex brokerage licensed in Cyprus can assure clients of transparent trade execution, a critical factor in building long-term relationships.
What Does the CySEC STP License Allow?
The CySEC license empowers firms to:
- Execute trades directly. Connect clients to liquidity providers seamlessly without conflicts of interest.
- Provide portfolio management. Handle investments within the EU regulatory framework.
Offer investment advice. Tailored financial strategies for retail and professional clients.
Unique Benefits of the CySEC STP License
- Tailored compliance solutions – operate across the EU under MiFID II, ensuring your firm adheres to stringent client protection and transparency regulations. Unlike licenses in less-regulated jurisdictions, CySEC ensures greater market trust.
- Transparency in trade execution – the STP model eliminates conflicts of interest by connecting trades directly with liquidity providers, boosting client satisfaction. This is particularly valuable for firms offering forex or CFD trading.
- EU integration with tax efficiency – Cyprus offers not only passporting rights but also 12.5% corporate tax, making it an attractive option for firms balancing compliance and profitability. For example, an EU-based fintech can reduce its operational costs significantly compared to operating in higher-tax jurisdictions.
Key takeaway: a Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) is a financial entity licensed by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) to provide investment services within Cyprus and across the European Economic Area (EEA) under MiFID II regulations. CIF Services may include:
- Investment advice
- Portfolio management
- Execution of client orders
- Dealing on own account
- Underwriting financial instruments
Are There Challenges?
While the benefits are clear, obtaining and maintaining a CySEC STP license comes with its challenges:
- Capital lock-up – firms must deposit share capital depending on the type of investment services offered, which is frozen during the application process.
- Stringent reporting obligations – CySEC requires regular financial and compliance reporting, which can strain smaller teams.
Local presence requirement – applicants must establish a registered office in Cyprus with experienced staff like compliance officers and risk managers.
Why Choose Cyprus for Licensing?
Cyprus offers a unique combination of regulatory integrity and business-friendly advantages:
- Access to EU markets. Firms licensed in Cyprus can operate seamlessly across the EEA under MiFID II.
- Favorable taxation. At 12.5% corporate tax, Cyprus is among the most tax-efficient jurisdictions in the EU.
- Reputation. A CySEC license signals compliance, attracting Cyprus investment and fostering client confidence.
- EU Passporting. Companies can operate across the EEA without additional licensing.
- Access to global markets. Firms are allowed to provide financial services to international clients.
For example: a fintech startup can leverage Cyprus’s tax regime and regulatory passporting to scale operations across Europe at lower costs.
How Does CySEC Ensure Compliance?
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) enforces compliance with local and EU laws, such as MiFID II, to protect consumers and maintain market integrity. Its role includes:
- Oversight of financial operations: ensuring transparency and fairness in the Cyprus stock exchange and broader financial markets.
- AML enforcement: preventing money laundering through rigorous audits and reporting standards.
Recent updates from CySEC include tighter AML protocols and increased scrutiny of investment firms. Explore detailed regulatory guidelines on CySEC’s official site.
How to Obtain a CySEC STP License
Securing a CySEC STP license involves the following steps:
- Establish a registered office: a physical presence in Cyprus is mandatory.
- Deposit capital: minimum share capital depending on a category must be deposited and frozen.
- Prepare documentation: submit a business plan, organizational chart, and compliance manuals covering AMLand KYC policies.
- Hire qualified personnel: appoint a compliance officer, risk manager, and key directors with relevant experience.
- Submit the application: pay the €7,000 application fee and complete the required forms.
Approval Timeline: typically takes 4-6 months, depending on application accuracy and CySEC’s workload.
Why Choose Legasset for a Ready-Made License?
Acquiring a license independently can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. With Legasset’s ready-made CySEC STP licenses, you can:
- Save months of administrative effort.
- Gain immediate access to a fully compliant, operational license.
- Rely on our ongoing support for audits, compliance, and reporting.
Whether you’re a fintech startup or a brokerage firm, Legasset ensures your operations are built on a foundation of trust, compliance, and efficiency. Contact us today to explore your options.
Pros & Cons of Acquiring a CySEC STP License
+ Fast-tracked EU market entry. With passporting rights under MiFID II, this license enables businesses to serve clients across the European Economic Area (EEA) without applying for additional permits. For instance, a fintech firm offering trading services can expand operations to 27 EU countries seamlessly.
+ Enhanced client trust through transparency. The Straight Through Processing (STP) model eliminates conflicts of interest by executing trades directly with liquidity providers. This is particularly appealing to clients seeking fair, transparent transactions.
+ Cost savings with tax efficiency. Cyprus’s 12.5% corporate tax rate - one of the lowest in the EU - reduces operational costs. Additionally, firms benefit from access to double-taxation treaties, optimizing profits for international operations.
+ Tailored for financial services. This license is specifically designed for brokers and fintech firms, supporting monthly transaction volumes of up to €2 million. For example, an investment firm focusing on forex trading can efficiently handle client transactions while meeting regulatory standards.
- Capital requirements. Firms must deposit a from €75,000 to €750,000 (depending on the chosen services category) as share capital, which remains frozen during the licensing process.
- Local infrastructure needed. Applicants are required to establish a physical office in Cyprus and hire compliance officers, risk managers, and directors, increasing upfront costs.
- Regulatory responsibilities. Maintaining compliance with CySEC standards requires regular reporting, audits, and adherence to AML/KYC policies. Firms without dedicated resources may find this challenging.
- Geographic limitations. While passporting rights allow operations across the EEA, businesses must secure additional licenses to operate outside the EU.
Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining a CySEC STP License in Cyprus
Obtaining a CySEC STP license is essential for businesses seeking to operate within the European Economic Area (EEA). This license offers access to the EU market under CySEC regulation, ensuring compliance and market credibility. However, applicants must meet stringent requirements to qualify:
- Capital requirements. Applicants must deposit a minimum of share capital in a Cyprus-based corporate account. This amount is frozen during the application process to demonstrate financial stability and operational readiness.
- Corporate structure. The company must be registered as a Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF), adhering to a formalized organizational structure. This includes appointing board members and clearly defining operational roles.
- Local presence. A physical office in Cyprus is mandatory to comply with CySEC’s requirements. The office must operate as the company’s regulatory hub, with key personnel overseeing day-to-day compliance.
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Key personnel. Firms are required to hire experienced professionals for critical roles:
1. A compliance officer with a background in financial regulation.
2. A risk manager to assess and mitigate operational risks.
3. At least two directors, one of whom must reside in Cyprus to ensure local oversight. - Residency requirements. At least one board member must hold Cypriot residency, ensuring alignment with local oversight standards.
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Required Documentation. Applicants must submit detailed documentation to meet CySEC regulation requirements, including:
1. AML and KYC policies. Comprehensive policies outlining anti-money laundering measures and client verification protocols.
2. Business plan. A forward-looking operational strategy with financial projections tailored to the company’s services.
3. Director credentials. Clean criminal background checks, academic qualifications, and professional experience records.
4. Organizational chart. A formalized chart detailing reporting lines and the company’s hierarchy.
Example: directors must provide certified identification documents and proof of their professional experience in financial services to pass CySEC’s due diligence checks.
Real World Application
Consider a startup specializing in forex trading. To meet CySEC license requirements, the company must:
- Establish a local office to handle EU-wide operations under Cyprus finance laws.
- Hire a compliance officer to implement AML policies.
- Demonstrate operational stability with €150,000 share capital.
With careful preparation, the licensing process takes approximately 4-6 months, allowing businesses to scale quickly within the EU market.
How to Get a CySEC STP License in Cyprus
Acquiring a CySEC STP license in Cyprus is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and compliance with regulatory standards. Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process efficiently:
- Step 1: Register as a Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) 5-7 business days
Start by registering your business as a limited liability company (LLC) under Cypriot law. This involves filing the company’s Articles of Association and other required documents. Appoint directors, including one Cyprus-resident director, as required by CySEC regulation.
Cost: €1,000–€1,500 for incorporation services. - Step 2: Set Up a Corporate Bank Account and Deposit Share Capital 7-10 business days
Open a corporate bank account in Cyprus to deposit the minimum share capital from €75,000-750,000, which remains frozen during the application process. Ensure the account complies with AML (anti-money laundering) standards, as banks will conduct their own due diligence.
Cost: bank fees range from €3000–€10,000, depending on the bank’s requirements. - Step 3: Prepare Compliance and Operational Documents 10-15 business days
Create detailed compliance manuals, including AML/KYC policies, a risk management plan, and an internal audit framework. Develop a business plan that outlines your financial forecasts, organizational structure, and operational model.
Example: a forex startup must demonstrate how it will handle client transactions in line with CySEC’s transparency requirements.
Cost: professional drafting services range from €8,000–€20,000. - Step 4: Submit the Application to CySEC 4-6 months for CySEC to review and approve the license
File your application with the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), ensuring all documentation meets regulatory standards. Pay the €7,000 application fee upon submission.
Cost: €7,000 application fee plus any additional consultant fees. - Step 5: Establish a Local Presence and Hire Staff 1-2 months
Set up a physical office in Cyprus, ensuring it is fully operational and compliant with CySEC’s requirements. Recruit key personnel, including:
1. A compliance officer experienced in financial regulation.
2. A risk manager to oversee operational risks.
3. At least two directors, one of whom must reside in Cyprus.
Cost: office setup costs start at approximately €3,000 monthly for rental and operational expenses. - Step 6: Maintain Compliance Post-License Approval
Once the license is granted, firms must adhere to ongoing compliance requirements, including:
1. Filing annual reports and financial statements.
2. Conducting periodic AML audits and internal reviews.
Cost: annual license renewal fee of €4,000 plus VAT and audit costs of €1,500–€3,000 annually.
Example: companies that fail to meet these standards risk penalties or license suspension under CySEC’s strict regulations.
General Timeline and Costs
The entire process takes approximately 4-6 months, depending on application completeness and CySEC’s review timeline.
The share capital requirements for a Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) depend on the type of investment services offered, as regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under MiFID II. Here are the main categories:
- €75,000 – CIFs providing only investment advice.
- €150,000 – CIFs executing client orders or managing portfolios without holding client funds.
- €750,000 – CIFs dealing on their own account, underwriting, or holding client funds.
These amounts must be fully paid and maintained as Tier 1 capital. Additional regulatory requirements, including risk management, internal controls, and ongoing capital adequacy compliance, also apply.
Total estimated costs range from €55,000-€75,000, including incorporation, compliance drafting, and application fees. Post-approval costs will vary based on operational scale.
At Legasset, we simplify the process of acquiring a CySEC STP license. From preparing compliance manuals to setting up your Cyprus office, our team ensures a smooth journey to regulatory approval. If time is a priority, our ready-made licenses can have you operational as quickly as possible. Contact us to get started.
Key Advantages of a Ready-Made CySEC STP License
Purchasing a ready-made CySEC STP license offers a fast-tracked path to launching financial services in the European Economic Area (EEA). Unlike starting from scratch, this solution eliminates the long wait times and complex processes typically associated with obtaining a license. With a ready-made option, you can begin operations in 6 months, compared to the standard 10-12 months required for new applications. Note: a ready-made license eliminates the need for an extensive initial application process but still requires ongoing compliance with CySEC’s regulatory framework, including capital maintenance, regular audits, and reporting obligations.
Regulatory and Operational Advantages
The CySEC STP license is tailored for firms prioritizing compliance, efficiency, and market trust. Unlike licenses in less-regulated jurisdictions, this license ensures:
- Direct market access – trade seamlessly with liquidity providers across the EU under MiFID II.
- Transparency in operations – the STP model eliminates conflicts of interest, building client confidence.
Example: a forex broker with a CySEC license can execute high-volume trades while meeting stringent EU standards, giving them an edge in competitive markets.
A Ready-Made Solution That Stands Out
What makes Legasset’s ready-made CySEC STP licenses unique? Beyond saving time and costs, our licenses are fully compliant and operational from day one. This means no delays, no additional capital requirements, and complete support for scalability. Whether you’re entering forex, CFDs, or other financial markets, this solution ensures a seamless transition.
If your priority is to get ahead without compromising compliance, this license is the perfect fit. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help streamline your market entry.
What’s Included in the Purchase of a CySEC STP License
When purchasing a ready-made CySEC STP license in Cyprus, you receive a comprehensive package designed to meet regulatory requirements and accelerate your business launch. Here’s what’s included:
- Incorporation Documents. Complete legal papers, including Articles of Association and registration certificates, proving your firm is a licensed entity under CySEC regulation.
- Corporate Bank Account. An active account with a local Cypriot bank, allowing you to deposit the required €150,000 share capital and process operational transactions seamlessly.
- Pre-Approved Compliance Framework. Comprehensive AML/KYC policies and internal risk management guidelines tailored to meet Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) standards, saving significant time in compliance preparation.
- Physical Office Setup. Access to a pre-established, fully equipped office in Cyprus, satisfying CySEC’s local presence requirements and enabling operational readiness from day one.
- Appointed Local Representatives. Pre-approved directors and compliance officers with the expertise and credentials to ensure immediate regulatory alignment, including one Cypriot resident director as required by CySEC regulation.
- Ongoing Compliance Support. Continuous assistance with audits, regulatory reporting, and updates to ensure smooth operations and adherence to evolving CySEC regulation.
Example: the included compliance framework ensures your team is audit-ready and aligned with EU-wide standards, eliminating common delays during regulatory reviews.
By purchasing a ready-made CySEC license, your firm avoids months of setup delays, gaining a competitive edge in the Cyprus finance market. With Legasset’s tailored solutions, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the complexities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing a CySEC STP License in Cyprus
What are the requirements for a Cyprus (CySEC) Forex License?
To obtain a CySEC Forex License, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Register as a Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) with a clear corporate structure.
- Deposit a minimum share capital of €75,000-750,000 in a Cypriot bank account.
- Submit detailed compliance manuals, including AML/KYC policies and a comprehensive business plan.
- Appoint qualified personnel, including at least two directors (one must reside in Cyprus).
- Establish a physical office in Cyprus, ensuring local oversight.
Example: a forex broker aiming to expand in the EU must align its operational strategy with CySEC’s transparency standards, ensuring smooth market entry.
Is a CySEC license good for my business?
Yes, a CySEC license is an excellent choice for businesses targeting the European Economic Area (EEA). It allows firms to:
- Operate across 27 EU countries under MiFID II passporting rights.
- Build client trust with adherence to strict compliance and transparency standards.
For example, brokers licensed under CySEC often report higher client retention rates due to enhanced credibility.
However, if your business seeks global operations, you may need additional licensing. Legasset offers consultations to explore multi-jurisdictional licensing options.
How much does a CySEC license cost?
Acquiring a CySEC license typically costs €55,000 to €75,000, including:
- Incorporation services.
- Application fee: €7,000.
- Compliance manuals.
- Additional costs: Local office setup (~€3,000/month) and director fees. Ongoing costs include annual license renewals (€4,000 plus VAT) and audits (€1,500–€3,000 annually).
What does CySEC do?
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) is the primary regulator for financial firms in Cyprus. It:
- Supervises CIFs, ensuring compliance with EU-wide regulations like MiFID II.
- Enforces strict AML/KYC policies to prevent financial crimes.
- Conducts regular audits and imposes penalties for non-compliance.
Example: firms regulated by CySEC benefit from enhanced market reputation and easier access to EU clients.
Can I operate in multiple countries with this license?
Yes, a CySEC STP license provides passporting rights across the EEA, enabling operations in 27 EU countries.
However, this license does not cover operations outside the EU. Businesses looking to expand globally will need additional licenses. Legasset can assist in securing multi-jurisdictional licensing to support your growth.
Are there restrictions on services I can provide?
Yes, the CySEC STP license allows:
- Execution of client trades through Straight Through Processing (STP).
- Investment advice and portfolio management.
It does not cover proprietary trading or market-making activities, which require separate licensing. Example: a forex broker can provide transparent trade execution with this license but cannot engage in speculative trading without additional approvals.
Additional Links and Sources
I. Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) Official Website.
Provides essential information on licensing requirements, compliance standards, and regulatory updates for financial service providers in Cyprus.
II. European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA).
Offers detailed insights into EU-wide regulations under MiFID II, including passporting rights and investor protection guidelines applicable to CySEC-licensed entities.
III. Government of Cyprus – Ministry of Finance.
Explains Cyprus’s corporate tax policies, financial advantages for businesses, and access to double-taxation treaties for international companies.
IV. European Commission – MiFID II Directive Overview.
Provides a comprehensive overview of MiFID II, covering its role in promoting market transparency and its implications for CySEC-regulated firms.
V. Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Resources – FATF.
Outlines global standards for AML/KYC policies, helping businesses align their compliance frameworks with international best practices.
