OFFSHORE • CRYPTO LICENSING

Cayman Islands: VASP Registration & Licensing Route

Build a compliant Cayman route for virtual-asset operations. We support entity setup, VASP application planning, and implementation of a practical AML/KYC + operational compliance framework for launch readiness.

CIMA-supervised VASP framework Phase 2 licensing in force Private scoped pricing model

General information only; not legal, tax, or regulatory advice.

Regulatory snapshot

Most projects begin with service classification and compliance design, then move into incorporation plus registration/licensing workflow readiness.

Who must apply

The Cayman VASP framework applies to entities providing (or intending to provide) virtual-asset services in or from within the Cayman Islands.

Covered activity scope

Scope can include exchange (fiat/virtual and virtual/virtual), transfer of virtual assets, virtual-asset custody, and related financial services tied to issuance/sale activity.

Registration vs licensing

Registration is used for applicable VASP services, while custody services and virtual-asset trading platform activity sit in the licensing track under the Phase 2 regime.

Operational compliance baseline

Ongoing obligations commonly include AML/CFT controls, sanctions compliance, governance and record-keeping standards, annual fees, and periodic regulatory reporting.

What’s typically included

Core workstreams used to move from planning to launch readiness.

Formation & registration workstream

  • Legal memo / applicability analysis
  • New company formation support
  • VASP registration or licensing pathway mapping
  • Governance and accountability design

Compliance framework workstream

  • Personalized AML/KYC policy architecture
  • AML procedures and control-matrix design
  • Data-protection policy framework
  • Evidence-pack structure for launch operations

Engagement options

We keep pricing private because scope varies by service mix, controls depth, and implementation timeline.

Start here

Scoping Call

30-minute scoping call to map your activities, markets, expected transaction profile, and delivery timeline.

Roadmap delivery: 3–5 business days
Package A

Cayman VASP Foundation Build

Private quote

  • Service and activity classification
  • Entity formation and structural setup guidance
  • Registration/licensing prep workflow support
  • AML/KYC + policy framework implementation
  • Launch readiness checklist
Best for teams launching a clean Cayman regulatory foundation.
Package B

Foundation + Ongoing Operations

Private quote

  • Everything in Package A
  • Enhanced governance and controls depth
  • Monitoring/reporting operating design
  • Post-launch compliance support plan
  • Monthly operational services coordination
Best for broader activity scope and stronger long-term control requirements.

Implementation timeline

A practical sequence used for most Cayman VASP engagements.

1

Scope mapping

Classify activities and confirm your target registration vs licensing track.

2

Entity & governance design

Set legal structure, control ownership, and documented responsibilities.

3

Framework implementation

Deploy AML/KYC, procedures, reporting logic, and operational controls.

4

Application readiness

Finalize documentation and evidence pack for submission pathway execution.

5

Post-approval operations

Establish recurring compliance cadence, reporting routines, and support coverage.

Ongoing obligations after approval

Typical maintenance areas teams plan for from day one.

Regulatory reporting

Maintain timely regulatory filings/returns and fee obligations according to your approval class.

AML/CFT program operation

Keep risk assessments, monitoring, sanctions screening, and escalation controls actively maintained.

Governance & record keeping

Preserve auditable records, update policies as needed, and evidence control effectiveness over time.

FAQ

Quick answers for founders evaluating Cayman.

Is Cayman a single “one-size-fits-all” VASP license?

Not exactly. Depending on activity, the route may involve registration or licensing. Custody and trading-platform models are generally handled in the licensing track.

Can non-resident founders use this route?

Yes. Many projects are structured for international founders, subject to final governance and operational design.

How long does it take?

Timing depends on model complexity, documentation quality, and authority processing timelines. We provide a scoped roadmap first.

Why is pricing private?

Scope varies materially by service mix, controls depth, and implementation track, so we scope first to avoid misquoting.

Do you support post-launch compliance operations?

Yes. Ongoing support can be structured based on your internal team, outsourcing model, and regulatory obligations.

Ready to structure your Cayman VASP route?

Send your model and target markets — we’ll return a private roadmap and next-step plan.