To get an EMI licence in Lithuania in 2027, you set up a Lithuanian company, hold €350,000 of initial capital for a full licence, build a compliant AML and governance framework, and apply to the Bank of Lithuania. The Bank of Lithuania reports an average review time of three to six months once the application is complete.
A licensed EMI can passport its services across the EEA, which is why Lithuania is one of the EU’s busiest e-money hubs.
Full EMI Or Restricted EMI?
A full EMI can passport across the EEA. A restricted EMI has lower capital requirements but can only operate in Lithuania within volume limits.
Licence
Initial Capital
Passporting
Electronic money institution
€350,000
Yes, across the EEA
Restricted EMI
Lower requirements
No, Lithuania only
What The Bank Of Lithuania Expects
The regulator looks closely at substance, governance and AML controls.
Local Substance
Expect to have management and key functions in Lithuania, including a local director.
AML Framework
A full AML and sanctions programme with a qualified MLRO is essential.
Safeguarding
Client funds must be safeguarded in line with EU rules.
Fit And Proper Owners
Shareholders and managers are checked for reputation and source of funds.
The Application Process
The process runs in stages.
1. Pre-Application Meeting
Many applicants meet the Bank of Lithuania to discuss the business model first.
2. Prepare The File
Include the business plan, financial forecasts, policies and IT security documents.
3. Pay The Fee And Submit
The application fee is about €1,463.
4. Review And Questions
Expect several rounds of questions before a decision.
5. Go Live
After licensing, connect to payment rails such as CENTROlink and passport into other EEA states.
Crypto Firms And MiCA
Crypto-asset service providers now need MiCA CASP authorisation, which is a separate regime from EMI licensing.
Who Can Help
Specialist counsel makes a big difference to timelines.
The Bank of Lithuania reports an average of three to six months after a complete application.
How much capital is needed for a Lithuanian EMI?
A full EMI needs €350,000 of initial capital.
Can I passport a Lithuanian EMI licence?
Yes. A full EMI licence can be passported across the EEA.
What is CENTROlink?
CENTROlink is the Bank of Lithuania’s payment system that gives licensed firms access to SEPA payments.
Conclusion
A Lithuanian EMI licence remains one of the most practical routes into EU payments, but the Bank of Lithuania expects real substance. Start with how to start a company in Lithuania, and explore the Lithuania hub.
