Pakistan’s New Crypto Licensing Framework Sets Sept. 5 Registration Deadline
- Pakistan has opened its new crypto licensing regime, giving digital asset companies until Sept. 5 to submit their registration applications.
- The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) said businesses must apply for a no-objection certificate before the deadline if they want to continue operating. Those that fail to apply will have to stop their activities.
- Companies operating under the new framework will face strict operational and security requirements, including protecting customer assets, maintaining robust cybersecurity, issuing transparent disclosures and following clear business practices.
- The Virtual Assets Act 2026 establishes licensing rules for 11 types of crypto-related activities, including custody services, exchanges, broker-dealers and derivatives.
- The registration drive marks another step toward formalizing Pakistan’s digital asset industry. It follows the State Bank of Pakistan’s April decision to remove restrictions on financial institutions providing banking services to crypto companies.
- While banks can now serve crypto-related businesses, they are still prohibited from investing in, trading or holding digital assets themselves.
Share this content:
