Liechtenstein Payment Institution License

Payment Account Services

Opening, maintaining, and managing payment accounts on behalf of clients, including processing deposits, withdrawals, and all related payment transactions through licensed payment infrastructure.

Money Remittance and Transfer Services

Executing fund transfers and remittance services on behalf of clients, allowing individuals and businesses to send and receive money domestically and across international borders securely.

Payment Initiation Services

Initiating payment transactions at the request of clients with respect to accounts held at other payment service providers, enabling seamless digital payment processing across multiple platforms.

Card and Digital Payment Execution

Issuing payment instruments such as debit or prepaid cards and executing payment transactions through digital channels, including online and mobile payment solutions for retail and business clients.

FMA Authorization Requirement

Any entity wishing to provide payment services in Liechtenstein must obtain prior authorization from the FMA, demonstrating that the firm meets all required governance, capital, and operational standards before commencing activities.

Fit and Proper Management

All directors and key personnel must demonstrate relevant professional experience, appropriate qualifications, and a clean financial and criminal background satisfying the FMA's strict fit and proper standards.

Compliance and AML Framework

A fully documented compliance program covering AML, CFT, data protection, and risk management procedures must be established and operational before the FMA grants authorization to the payment institution.

EEA Passporting Rights

Once licensed in Liechtenstein, a payment institution benefits from EEA passporting rights, allowing it to offer payment services across all EEA member states under a single license without requiring separate local authorizations.

Money Remittance Services

Firms authorized solely for money remittance services must maintain a minimum initial capital of EUR 20,000, reflecting the more limited scope of activities and lower associated operational risk.

Payment Initiation Services

Payment institutions providing payment initiation services are required to hold a minimum initial capital of EUR 50,000, ensuring adequate financial resources to support their operational and client obligations.

Full-Scope Payment Institution

Firms offering a full range of payment services, including the execution of payment transactions and management of payment accounts, must maintain a minimum initial capital of EUR 125,000.

Ongoing Capital Maintenance Obligation

All licensed payment institutions must continuously maintain the required capital threshold throughout their operations and promptly notify the FMA of any material change in their financial position.