France’s Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) has issued a timely reminder to digital asset service providers (DASPs) about the impending end of a key transitional arrangement under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Regulation. This update, released on February 5, 2026, emphasizes the need for prompt action to ensure seamless operations in the evolving crypto landscape.
As the European Union tightens its grip on digital assets, this period allows existing providers to operate without full MiCA authorization until July 1, 2026, but only if they meet specific criteria.
The transitional framework stems from Article 143 of the MiCA Regulation and Article 8 III of France’s DDADUE Law from March 9, 2023.
It covers DASPs that are already registered or licensed in France, as well as those offering services related to crypto-assets under Article L. 54-10-2-5° of the Monetary and Financial Code prior to MiCA’s implementation.
This grace period is designed to bridge the gap between national regulations and the new EU-wide standards, giving firms time to adapt without disrupting services.
For DASPs planning to stay in business, the AMF stresses the urgency of submitting applications for MiCA authorization to transition into Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs).
Applications should be filed as early as possible, with a focus on completeness and quality to avoid delays.
Once deemed complete, the review process can last up to four months, but incomplete submissions often lead to requests for additional information or revisions, extending timelines further.
Successful applicants will gain authorization to operate under MiCA, adhering to both general and service-specific obligations.
A major perk is the European passport, enabling CASPs to expand services across EU member states without separate approvals.
The AMF maintains a public whitelist of authorized CASPs on its website, serving as a transparency tool for consumers and stakeholders.
Come July 1, 2026, the landscape shifts dramatically: only MiCA-authorized CASPs will be permitted to provide crypto-asset services in France.
This includes entities authorized by national bodies like the AMF or those notified under Article 60 for qualifying financial institutions.
The change aims to standardize oversight, enhance investor protection, and foster a more secure digital asset market across Europe.
DASPs opting out of continuation must wind down operations in an orderly fashion, restricting activities to essential closure steps no later than March 30, 2026.
This involves safeguarding client interests, such as facilitating asset transfers to authorized providers or enabling sales with adequate advance notice.
The goal is to minimize risks to crypto-asset holders during the exit process.
Failure to comply post-July 1 carries severe consequences under Articles L. 54-10-4 and L. 572-23 of the Monetary and Financial Code, including potential imprisonment for up to two years and fines reaching €30,000.
The AMF, alongside other authorities, will vigilantly enforce these rules, which may involve publishing blacklists of unauthorized operators, issuing public alerts, or pursuing legal measures to shut down non-compliant websites.
This reminder aligns with broader EU efforts, as highlighted by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) in a December 2025 statement urging all market players to prepare for the transition’s conclusion.
ESMA’s call reinforces the importance of proactive planning to avoid disruptions.
Overall, the AMF’s guidance underscores a pivotal moment for France‘s crypto sector.
By encouraging early applications and structured exits, it aims to build a resilient, compliant ecosystem.
DASPs should consult legal experts and review AMF resources to navigate this shift effectively.
As MiCA takes full effect, the focus on transparency and accountability could set a benchmark for global crypto regulation.