Binance applies for an EU-wide MiCA license in Greece, aiming to expand regulated crypto services across Europe before 2026 deadlines.
Binance has applied for an EU-wide MiCA license by filing its request in Greece. The move is a renewed effort to operate legally in European markets. If given the green light, Binance could provide regulated crypto services across the European Union.
Binance Targets EU Market Access Through Greece Filing
The application was submitted to the Hellenic Capital Market Commission, which is the financial regulatory body in Greece. Through this filing, Binance is looking for authorization under the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework. As a result, approval would permit operations in all of the 27 EU member states.
Binance has formally applied for a pan-European license known as MiCA that digital asset firms operating in the continent must obtain before July 1. https://t.co/n7gyOsnOpk
— FORTUNE (@FortuneMagazine) January 22, 2026
The decision comes after a period of increased regulatory pressure on Binance across the world. In the past, the exchange paid a settlement of $4.3 billion to the U.S. government. Meanwhile, Binance had also pulled out of a number of European jurisdictions due to compliance issues.
However, the Greece filing is part of a strategic reset for the company’s European strategy. Binance created a local holding entity called Binary Greece. The company registered the firm with an initial share capital of 25,000 Euro.
Importantly, the move is ahead of the EU’s MiCA compliance deadline. By July 1, 2026, all crypto companies will have to obtain authorization. Otherwise, they are required to stop providing services within the European Union.
Greek regulators have yet to hand out any MiCA licenses to crypto companies. Nevertheless, the HCMC has expedited its review processes. Additionally, major accounting companies like KPMG and Ernst & Young are supporting authorities.
MiCA Approval Could Restore Binance’s European Footing
If approved, the MiCA license would give Binance the rights to passporting across the European Economic Area. This would replace the several national approvals with one regulatory regime. As such, Binance could simplify the compliance and operational structure.
A spokesperson for Binance said MiCA is a positive regulatory milestone. According to the company, the framework makes the terms clearer and increases user protections. Moreover, it promotes responsible innovation in the digital asset markets.
The EU-wide license could give Binance a big competitive edge in Europe. Other exchanges are racing to get MiCA approvals before deadlines as well. Therefore, early approval may give Binance some operational advantages.
MiCA sets severe restrictions on governance, capital reserves and consumer protection. Consequently, crypto companies need to show strong internal controls. Binance’s application indicates faith in absolving these regulatory standards.
The European crypto market is still a priority for world exchanges. Europe provides a huge retail base and developing institutional interest. Hence, regulatory certainty is seen under MiCA as a key to sustainable growth.
For the regulators, MiCA is about trying to balance innovation and financial stability. Authorities want uniform oversight in member states. Therefore, Binance’s application will probably be subject to detailed scrutiny.
As the review progresses, market participants will be closely monitoring regulatory outcomes. Approval could be a turning point for Binance in Europe. Ultimately, the decision could affect how major crypto platforms are operated under unified European rules.