KuCoin Wins Austria MiCA Approval, Gains Passport to EU Crypto Market

KuCoin just took one of its biggest regulatory steps yet!

The exchange’s European arm has secured a MiCA license in Austria, giving KuCoin the ability to offer regulated crypto services across nearly the entire European Economic Area. It’s a major shift for a platform known for its global reach but often questioned on compliance.

Austria Becomes KuCoin’s New Launchpad

The newly established KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH will be based in Vienna, a city that has become one of Europe’s more forward-thinking crypto hubs.

KuCoin said Austria stood out thanks to its early MiCA implementation, a predictable regulatory environment, and strong local talent. The exchange is already hiring and building out its European team.

“As a globally leading crypto exchange, we place compliance and user experience at the forefront,” CEO BC Wong said. “This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to a global, compliant strategy.”

A Veteran Leadership Team Takes Charge

KuCoin has come prepared. It appointed two well-known industry figures – Oliver Stauber as CEO and Christian Niedermüller as COO.

Staube called the moment “a new era in crypto,” saying KuCoin aims to become “Europe’s premier, regulatory-compliant crypto asset service provider.”

Niedermüller, who has spent nearly a decade scaling European exchanges, said he “couldn’t be prouder” to help lead KuCoin’s expansion.

KuCoin’s Compliance Push Is Moving Fast

This MiCA approval comes just days after KuCoin registered with Australia’s AUSTRAC – another clear sign the exchange is strengthening its regulatory footprint worldwide.

Austria’s Financial Market Authority has also granted MiCA licenses to several major players, including Bitpanda, Bybit, Amina Bank, and FIOR Digital. KuCoin now joins that group, with authorization to serve users across 29 EEA countries (Malta excluded).

What It Means for European Users

Once fully rolled out, KuCoin EU will be able to offer a wide range of digital asset services under Europe’s new MiCA framework. The exchange says its long-term goal is to support broader blockchain adoption and help strengthen the EU’s position in the global crypto market.

With the MiCA license now secured, KuCoin has the regulatory green light to back that mission across Europe.