Crypto License in New Zealand
Last Update: 18.03.2026
A cryptocurrency license in New Zealand presents an opportunity to operate legally in a transparent environment with significant support, widespread acceptance among the local population, and clear regulation by the state. A blockchain startup, crypto exchange, or crypto asset storage service must obtain official permission from the Financial Markets Authority (FMA). Gofaizen & Sherle will help you prepare your application and clarify all the legal requirements in the digital finance market.
The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) is the primary regulator of the financial products market, including cryptocurrencies. All participants must comply with the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 (FMCA). Cryptocurrencies are considered assets, trading/exchange transactions are subject to taxation, and providers must register with the Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR).
In New Zealand, approximately 33.6% of the population invests in digital assets. There are 221 BTC ATMs, and more than 7 million transactions with a total value of NZD 7.8 billion have already been made. EasyCrypto, BitPrime, and Local Coin Swap have been licensed and provide their services to thousands of users.
Benefits of Getting License in New Zealand
The New Zealand crypto license will be especially relevant for startups and companies looking to scale up for long-term growth, increase their customer base, and expand their network of financial partners.
The advantages of an NZ digital currency license include:
Active use of cryptocurrencies in various sectors of the economy.
Digital currencies are very popular among the local population, with more than 400 shops, cafes, and restaurants accepting payments in virtual currencies. Notable establishments include Oyster & Chop, Frankton Pizzeria, Mr Pipes, Wheeler Motor Company, a car dealer, and Aurum Fine Jewellery, a jewelry chain.
A solid reputation in the global market.
New Zealand is not considered a high-risk jurisdiction and is not blacklisted by the FATF. The authorities are actively improving AML/CFT procedures, report annually to the FATF to ensure compliance with all international standards, and are constantly improving the technical side of the issue.
Encouragement of innovation and cooperation by the state.
From 2025, the Invest New Zealand agency will be established, with the main goal of simplifying market entry for new investors, including fintech companies. The Global From Day 1 venture fund is already operating here, and Crypto Community Meetups are held.
Legal status of mining.
In the country, mining is treated as a business, subject to taxation, not licensed, electricity costs are treated as business expenses, and unauthorized use of other people’s PCs is a crime. Some of the largest mining sites are Tiwari Point and West Coast (hydropower), and projects using solar energy and AI are also being developed.
Access to banking services.
Companies licensed by the FSPR must comply with AML/CFT requirements, which are a key criterion for banking structures and payment services. Kiwi Bank, BNZ, and ASB Bank work with cryptocurrency purchases through exchanges.
New Zealand regulations for blockchain companies
There are no separate New Zealand crypto laws; all participants are subject to the regulations adopted for the financial market. The FMA is the main market regulator, reviewing license applications and ensuring compliance with all requirements.
Blockchain regulation in New Zealand is based on the following legislative acts:
- The Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 (FMCA) was developed to establish rules for the offering of financial products and the regulation of investment activities.
- The Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act 2009 requires crypto companies to comply with AML/KYC procedures and report to the DIA.
- The Financial Service Providers Act 2008 requires crypto providers to register with the FSPR and become a member of the DRS.
- The Companies Act 1993 established criteria for the registration of legal entities, including blockchain companies.
The main requirement for all financial market participants is compliance with New Zealand’s AML/CFT standards, ensuring transparency of business activities, and protecting user rights.
Legal Requirements and AML/CFT Obligations
Any company offering financial products related to virtual currencies is required to obtain a NZ crypto license, as well as:
- Register with the FSPR. Fintech businesses fall under the category of financial organizations, so it is necessary to register a legal entity with the FSPR (Financial Service Providers Register). In addition, it is necessary to have a legal address and hire a resident manager.
- Comply with AML/CFT procedures and register with the DIA. The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) monitors market participants (banks, exchanges, etc.) for compliance with all anti-money laundering requirements (CDD, ECDD, reporting suspicious transactions). The DIA conducts audits every two years and requires the presence of a qualified AML manager.
- Become a member of the DRS. Dispute Resolution Services (DRS) exist to handle complaints between users and financial companies, including digital currency license NZ providers. Companies must comply with the Consumer Protection Act and the Financial Advice Act, which means providing customers with complete information about the product, associated risks, and possible losses.
- Comply with FMA requirements. The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) licenses activities related to the solicitation and management of investments (STOs, tokenized securities), as well as the trading of derivatives (contracts for difference (CFDs)).
- Comply with tax legislation. A technology company must register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). Tax obligations arise when income is received from sales/purchases, mining, trading, investments, which must also be reflected in the tax return with the payment of income tax, VAT, etc.
FMA licensing process for virtual assets
The process of obtaining a New Zealand crypto license is regulated by a number of regulations and requirements from government agencies aimed at protecting the rights of users and their investments, ensuring transparency of activities by FATF recommendations, and preventing financial crimes. Legalization of blockchain businesses takes place in several stages:
Step 1: Determining the type of activity and obtaining a registration certificate.
The type of activity (crypto exchange, investment, trading, mining) determines which permits are required and which government agencies you need to register with. Company registration takes place online by filling out the Companies Register form. The company must have a legal address, hire a resident director or manager with permanent residency status, and pay a state fee ($130-150).
Step 2: Registration with government agencies (IRD, FSPR, DIA).
To fully operate as a virtual asset service provider in New Zealand, you must:
- obtain an IRD number from the tax office;
- register with the DIA as an AML/CFT reporting entity, appoint an AML manager, prepare all necessary documentation and technical components for the implementation of the required FATF international standards;
- register with the FSPR as a legal entity providing financial services;
- become a member of the DRS; when working with retail clients, the company must comply with several regulations, including those relating to the protection of user rights.
Step 3: Obtaining a license from the FMA.
The FMA licenses activities related to financial advice, investment offerings, and investment management, including derivatives.
Before applying, the following documents must be collected:
- Identification details of the founders and managers.
- Certificate of incorporation and registration with state authorities.
- Description of the nature of financial services and forecast of future activities.
- Technical description of the platform used and data protection protocols.
Although there are no minimum capital requirements, the company must prove its financial stability (for investment activities, a minimum of NZD 100,000) and have liability insurance (PI insurance).
Step 4: Filing reports.
An annual report must be submitted to the IRD and DIA, and the data in the register must be kept up to date, and any changes must be notified to the state registrars.
Find out more information about the New Zealand Crypto License
Taxation of Certain Cryptocurrency Transactions in New Zealand
When registering a legal entity in NZ, it is important to remember that income from trading, exchange, profits from staking/airdrop, DeFi, NFT, and mining are subject to a 28% income tax, as well as the following:
- 15% VAT (does not apply to purchases and sales), but applies to related services (subscriptions, commissions).
- 15-33% on dividends.
Cryptocurrency is not a means of payment, but is treated as property.
Conclusion
Companies operating in the digital asset space must comply with strict regulatory requirements and register with the DIA, FSPR, and DRS. However, it is precisely this approach to regulatory control that creates a favorable and understandable environment for the legal development of any type of crypto activity, from the creation of a crypto exchange to staking and mining.
FMA authorization indicates that the business complies with local laws, user rights, and that their investments are protected, and AML/CFT requirements are met. Together, this provides legal protection for clients, partners, and investors in the rapidly evolving digital finance sector.
FAQ about New Zealand crypto license
Are crypto transactions legal in New Zealand?
Yes, cryptocurrencies are treated as property, and income from exchange, trading, mining, and staking is taxable.
Do I need to obtain a crypto license in New Zealand?
Although there is no separate crypto license for providers in the jurisdiction, they must comply with general financial regulations and obtain a license from the FMA.
Do I need a local office and hire a resident manager?
Yes, to register a legal entity, you must hire a local manager (resident/permanent resident) and have a legal address in the country.
Do fintech companies have to follow AML/KYC procedures?
Yes, the jurisdiction is a FATF member and fully complies with all AML/CFT requirements. When registering a fintech company, you need to register with the DIA and then report any suspicious transactions and conduct CDD/ECDD procedures.
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