Licensing Criteria and Procedures for Applying for a Virtual Asset Service Provider License in Georgia (VASP)
General information
Company structure
- At least one shareholder is required. This can be either an individual or a corporate entity.
- A minimum of one local director is required for a cryptocurrency company in Georgia.
Confidentiality
- Beneficial owners' details – disclosed to the Authorities
- Shareholders' details – part of public record
- Directors' details – part of public record
Taxation
- Corporate Income Tax: Georgia uses an "Estonian model" of taxation, taxing only distributed profits at 15%. Reinvested profits are not taxed.
- Other Taxes: Income from cryptocurrency trading for individuals is exempt from income tax, and the exchange of crypto for national or foreign currency is exempt from VAT.
Accounting requirements
- Filing annual report is obligatory
Secretary - Required
Registered office - A physical office in Georgia is mandatory to comply with regulatory requirements and to provide a base for operations.
The application process for a crypto license involves several steps:
- Company Registration: Incorporate a company in Georgia, either a limited liability company (LLC) or a joint stock company (JSC).
- Document Preparation: Gather and prepare all necessary documents, including business plans, AML/KYC policies, and director/shareholder information.
- License Application: Submit the application to the National Bank of Georgia along with the state fee of 5,000 GEL (approximately 2,000 USD).
- Approval: The review process can take between 2-4 months, during which the regulator may request additional information or documentation.
Key documents required for the application include:
- Company Charter and Articles of Association
- Proof of Identity and No Criminal Record for Directors and Shareholders
- Business Plan and Financial Statements
- AML/KYC Policies
- Proof of Local Office and Lease Agreement
- Source of Funds Confirmation