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UK API License

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What is an API Licence?

An API (Authorised Payment Institution) licence allows businesses to legally offer payment services within the UK, in accordance with the Payment Services Regulations 2017. To obtain this licence, you must apply to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

With an API licence, your business can provide services such as:

Payment processing
Money remittance
Operating payment accounts

If your business also deals with money transfers or currency exchange, you’ll need to register separately with HMRC for a Money Service Business (MSB) licence.

We offer end-to-end support for the API licence application process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. This allows you to become authorised quickly and focus on growing your business while we handle the regulatory complexities.

What do I need to get an API licence?

According to the FCA’s authorisation requirements, you must meet several key criteria to become an Authorised Payment Institution (API) in the UK:

You must be a body corporate (e.g., a limited company or partnership).
You must either conduct, or intend to conduct, payment services in the UK.
You need to have robust governance structures, internal controls, and operational procedures in place.
A comprehensive business plan must be submitted, outlining your services, strategy, and operations.
Adequate systems must be in place to protect users’ funds.
If you offer Payment Initiation Services (PIS) or Account Information Services (AIS), you must hold suitable professional indemnity insurance.
Directors and senior managers must be reputable and possess the appropriate skills and experience to run a payment services business.
Managers must not have any convictions related to money laundering, terrorist financing, or financial crimes.
Both your head office and registered office must be located in the UK.
Your Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) must be based in the UK.
You must comply with the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017 (amended in 2019).
Any individual or entity holding a qualifying interest must be assessed as fit and proper.
If your business has close links with other entities, these must not hinder the FCA’s ability to supervise your operations effectively. If those links are international, foreign laws must also not obstruct FCA supervision.

How long does it take to get an API licence?

Preparing an application for an Authorised Payment Institution (API) licence typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Once submitted, the FCA’s review and approval process can vary significantly, generally taking anywhere from 3 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the application and the responsiveness of the applicant.

What if I want to become authorised sooner?

If waiting for your API licence isn’t an option, there are faster alternatives available:

Acquiring a business that already holds an API licence can significantly speed up your market entry. We frequently assist with mergers and acquisitions—contact us for more information.
You can begin offering payment services by becoming an agent of an existing authorised firm, allowing you to operate under their licence while your own application is being processed.

Will I Be Accepted for an API Licence?

We’re proud to maintain a 99% success rate for API licence applications submitted on behalf of our clients.

To ensure a smooth and successful process, we carry out a thorough pre-assessment of your company, directors, and shareholders before taking on your case. This initial screening helps confirm that you meet the FCA’s criteria, giving us the confidence that your application will be approved on the first attempt.

How much does it cost?

We offer a flat fee for handling your API licence application. This fee includes unlimited follow-up and communication with the FCA until your licence is fully approved, no hidden charges, just end-to-end support.

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