payment institution license Lithuania for sale
An Authorised Payment Institution (API) license in Lithuania allows companies to offer regulated payment services across the European Economic Area (EEA), including money transfers, merchant services, account management, and direct access to SEPA payment infrastructure. APIs are governed under the Law on Payment Institutions and supervised by the Bank of Lithuania (Lietuvos Bankas), ensuring firms operate with full EU compliance.
Securing a ready-made company with an API license for sale in Lithuania provides businesses a unique advantage: immediate market entry under a stable, passportable regulatory regime before upcoming PSD3 reforms reshape the European payments landscape in 2026. While Lithuania remains one of the fastest and most fintech-friendly licensing hubs in Europe, local operational requirements – such as a physical office, Lithuanian-resident AML Officer, and real control over core functions – must now be fully met to retain a Lithuania Authorized Payment Institution License.
The country’s strong digital infrastructure, 15% corporate tax rate (reduced to 5% for small firms), and access to EU banking networks continue to make Lithuania the preferred gateway for expanding payment operations across Europe. Businesses aiming to obtain an API license in Lithuania benefit from fast regulatory procedures compared to other EU jurisdictions.
Legasset helps clients either acquire a ready-made API-licensed company or apply for a fresh license directly through the Bank of Lithuania. Our team handles licensing, compliance staffing, capital structuring, and full readiness for PSD3 transition.
Now, let’s dive deeper into what Lithuania’s API license includes and how you can secure it effectively.
Table of Contents
Subtype
API
Jurisdiction
Lithuania
Category
Payment Institutions
Type
Business Licenses
Key Takeaways for an API License in Lithuania
- Buying a company with an Authorised Payment Institution (API) license in Lithuania offers immediate access to EEA markets, but firms must fully adapt to PSD3 standards by 2026.
- Acquisition costs typically range from €65,000 to €95,000, with annual operational expenses of €30,000 to €70,000 depending on transaction volume and staffing.
- Maintaining an API license requires a real Lithuanian office, an approved AML Compliance Officer, audited safeguarding structures, and quarterly filings to the Bank of Lithuania.
- Traditional banking access is restricted; most licensed APIs rely on Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs), with onboarding usually taking 6–10 weeks.
- The Bank of Lithuania imposes strict audits of ownership control and operational substance; lack of real activity can lead to license suspension.
- Legasset assists clients with both ready-made API acquisitions and full license applications, covering local staffing, safeguarding setup, compliance filings, and PSD3 transition planning.
Offer Information
Lithuania Payment Institution License for Sale #1
Main details:
- A previously active PI in Lithuania;
- One opened account. Fast transfer;
- Can be upgraded to EMI.
What You Need to Know About the API License in Lithuania
A Lithuania Authorized Payment Institution license enables companies to provide regulated payment services across the entire European Economic Area (EEA) under PSD2 rules. These services include account management, merchant acquiring, money remittance, payment initiation, and issuance of payment instruments. API licensees in Lithuania can offer IBAN accounts, access SEPA, and partner with EU banks and Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs) without needing additional licenses in other EU countries.
However, firms must operate within the limits set by Directive (EU) 2015/2366 and the Law on Payment Institutions of the Republic of Lithuania. They cannot issue electronic money (requires an EMI license), hold clients’ funds beyond operational purposes without special permissions, or extend credit from safeguarded balances.
Key limitations include:
- Restriction on holding large client funds overnight without safeguarding structures.
- Mandatory adherence to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) policies aligned with Lithuanian AML Law.
- Immediate obligation to comply with upcoming PSD3 amendments, expected to finalize by early 2026.
Purchasing a ready-made API license in Lithuania offers immediate access to SEPA and the EU payments market, but firms must be prepared to restructure slightly to meet PSD3 readiness, including reinforcing cybersecurity, client authentication, and cross-border transparency standards.
Regulatory Framework, Taxes, and Licensing Supervision for APIs in Lithuania
The Bank of Lithuania (Lietuvos Bankas) is the sole authority issuing, regulating, and supervising API licenses in Lithuania. All licensed institutions are listed in the official public registry and are subject to direct ongoing compliance checks, including mandatory annual reports and random supervisory inspections.
Key legal frameworks governing operations:
- Law on Payment Institutions of the Republic of Lithuania.
- Law on Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing.
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for handling EU client data.
- PSD3 Regulation, replaced PSD2 rules by late 2025.
Taxation remains highly competitive. Lithuania applies a standard corporate income tax rate of 15%, but small entities (revenue < €300,000/year and <10 employees) qualify for a reduced 5% corporate tax rate. There are no special payment services taxes beyond standard corporate obligations for holders of a Lithuania payment institution license.
In addition to taxes, firms must maintain accounting compliance in Lithuania and file annual financial statements audited by a registered local auditor if revenue exceeds €2 million.
Important Note on Regulatory Shift
While Lithuania remains fintech-friendly, since 2022 the Bank of Lithuania has intensified license supervision. Non-compliant or non-operational API firms risk license revocation during annual or surprise reviews. Businesses holding a company with API license for sale in Lithuania must ensure active operations to retain regulatory approval.
Practical Acquisition or Licensing Paths
Legasset supports two routes:
- Purchasing a ready-made company with an API license in Lithuania with a clean operational history and compliance record.
- Applying to obtain an API license in Lithuania directly through the Bank of Lithuania, ensuring compliance with both PSD2 and the upcoming PSD3 framework.
Both routes require real local presence, licensed directors, and an operational structure centered in Lithuania. Our team manages full end-to-end licensing, restructuring, and operational compliance setup for either pathway.
Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining an API License in Lithuania
Only private limited liability companies (Uždaroji Akcinė Bendrovė – UAB) registered in Lithuania are eligible to hold an Authorised Payment Institution (API) license. The company must have a minimum of one shareholder and one director, although best practice under Bank of Lithuania guidelines encourages appointing at least two directors to meet PSD2’s operational resilience requirements.
There are no citizenship restrictions for shareholders, but at least one board member or senior manager must reside permanently in Lithuania or the EEA. Directors must demonstrate experience in financial services, compliance, payments, or risk management. Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) must pass fit and proper assessments, including criminal record checks and source of funds verifications.
Financial and Capital Requirements
Applicants must present a minimum initial capital of €125,000, fully deposited into a Lithuanian bank account before license submission. This capital must remain dedicated to operational risk coverage and cannot be withdrawn during license processing.
Ongoing financial obligations include:
- Maintaining capital adequacy at all times based on transaction volumes.
- Filing audited financial statements annually if turnover exceeds €2 million.
- Paying regulatory supervision fees to the Bank of Lithuania, typically calculated as a minor percentage of annual revenue.
Local Presence and Compliance Oversight
An API license holder must maintain a real physical office in Lithuania, staffed with local personnel responsible for daily operations. Required positions include:
- AML Compliance Officer – must be approved by the Bank of Lithuania and reside locally. Refer to our page about AML Director hiring to learn more on the options.
- Risk Manager – can be combined with other roles in small institutions but must be functionally independent for PSD3 readiness. Ongoing supervision includes quarterly transaction reporting, suspicious activity reports (SARs), and random compliance inspections.
Required Documentation and Submission Process
Mandatory documents include:
- Company incorporation certificate and Articles of Association.
- Detailed business plan, financial forecasts, and operational model description.
- AML/CFT policies fully compliant with Lithuanian law.
- Directors’ CVs, criminal record certificates, and fit-and-proper declarations.
- Proof of initial capital deposit at a Lithuanian credit institution.
All foreign documents must be notarized and apostilled if issued outside the EEA. The typical approval timeline is 4-6 months, although delays occur without a local compliance partner or full initial document set.
Approval Timelines, Fees, and Hidden Costs
- Official application fee: €1,463 (non-refundable).
- Typical licensing legal fees: €15,000–€25,000 depending on complexity.
- Annual operational costs (office, staff, audit, legal): from €25,000–€60,000+ depending on transaction scale.
Common hidden challenges include securing acceptable local directors and banking partners willing to handle payment institutions. Legasset helps mitigate these risks through vetted staffing and banking solutions.
Pros & Cons of Acquiring an API License in Lithuania
+ Full EU passporting rights. A Lithuanian API license grants immediate cross-border access to all EEA countries under PSD2 without re-licensing.
+ Faster licensing than major EU markets. Processing time for a new license averages 4-6 months in Lithuania versus up to 12 months in France or Germany.
+ Attractive corporate taxation. Lithuania applies a 15% corporate income tax, with a 5% rate for small companies under €300,000 annual profit.
+ Proactive regulator support. The Bank of Lithuania provides licensing sandboxes, regulatory advice, and early-stage feedback rare in other EU states.
+ Access to strong fintech infrastructure. Lithuania offers SEPA direct participation, cooperation with top EMIs, and emerging open banking ecosystems.
+ Ready-made API companies available. Buying a compliant operational entity allows market entry in as little as 4-6 weeks if due diligence is properly handled.
– Severe banking limitations. Even licensed APIs are often rejected by Lithuanian banks; most firms must open accounts in Germany, Ireland, or rely on EMIs.
– Resident director and staffing burden. Lithuania mandates at least one resident director or senior manager, complicating structure for foreign entrepreneurs.
– High hidden compliance costs. Annual audit, accounting, and legal fees easily reach €15,000–€25,000 for operational PIs exceeding modest transaction volumes.
– Capital restrictions beyond licensing. €125,000 initial capital must stay untouched during licensing and part may be blocked as risk reserves after launch.
– Risk from poorly vetted ready-made companies. Some ready-made Lithuanian APIs on the market have hidden issues like shareholder disclosure violations or pending FIU checks.
– Upcoming PSD3 transition challenges. Firms must prepare for mandatory client fund safeguarding audits, enhanced cybersecurity obligations, and operational resilience tests by early 2026.
How to Get a Payment Institution (API) License in Lithuania
Setting up a licensed Authorised Payment Institution (API) in Lithuania can be done either by purchasing a ready-made licensed entity or applying for a new license directly with the Bank of Lithuania. Legasset assists with both pathways – including entity setup, compliance structuring, staffing, banking, and MiCA/PSD3 transition readiness.
Step-by-Step API Licensing Process in Lithuania
- Step 1: Choose Between Ready-Made Acquisition or New License Application 6-9 weeks
Businesses can either acquire a ready-made API company with an active license or start a new licensing process. Legasset guides clients through legal review, structuring, and compliance upgrades for both models.
Key Documents: KYC forms, corporate structure chart, intended service model outline.
Estimated Cost: Ready-made API: €95,000–€135,000+; New license application: €40,000–€60,000 plus mandatory capital.
Timeline: 6–9 weeks for ready-made; 6–9 months for new license depending on regulator review cycles. - Step 2: Corporate Structuring and Capital Deposit 4-6 weeks
Applicants must establish a Lithuanian private limited company (UAB), appoint qualified directors, compliance officers, and MLROs. Share capital must be deposited before application.
Key Documents: Incorporation certificate, Articles of Association, shareholder resolutions, bank statement proving capital.
Estimated Cost: Capital requirement: minimum €20,000 (higher if additional services or safeguarding are needed). Setup and structuring fees: €7,000–€12,000. - Step 2.5: Optional Pre-Licensing Sandbox Consultation Adds 1–2 months if requested
In complex cases, the Bank of Lithuania may invite applicants to a sandbox consultation to clarify compliance structure or technical models before full submission. Not mandatory but increasingly common.
Key Documents: Draft policies, system architecture plans, risk assessments.
Estimated Cost: Included in legal support package. - Step 3: Full License Application Submission 3–4 months
The formal submission must include a complete business plan, financial forecasts, risk management strategies, AML/KYC manuals, and IT security documentation.
Key Documents: Business plan, financial model, safeguarding strategy, AML/KYC policies, IT Security Audit certificates (ISAE 3402 or equivalent).
Estimated Cost: Full licensing support €15,000–€20,000 plus safeguarding audit €5,000–€8,000. - Step 4: Banking/EMI Account Setup 8–12 weeks
Operational readiness requires a fully functional safeguarding account or client funds account with an EU-based financial institution. Lithuanian traditional banks are restrictive toward APIs, so onboarding is often through Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs).
Key Documents: Updated AML/KYC documents, compliance certifications, onboarding files.
Estimated Cost: Banking/EMI account opening €5,000–€10,000. - Step 5: Post-Licensing Compliance Setup and Launch Ongoing
After obtaining the license, firms must ensure full operational compliance, including transaction monitoring, periodic safeguarding reports, quarterly regulatory filings, and annual independent audits.
Key Documents: Compliance manuals, transaction monitoring procedures, reporting calendars.
Estimated Cost: Ongoing compliance €10,000–€20,000/year; safeguarding audit updates €5,000–€8,000/year; IT security recertification €7,000–€12,000/year.
Overall Timeline and Costs Summary
- Ready-made licensed API company: 6–9 weeks to full operational readiness, from €105,000–€150,000+ (depending on restructuring needs and banking).
- New license application: 6–9 months total, full setup from €50,000–€75,000+ (excluding paid-up capital of €20,000 minimum).
Post-Licensing Compliance Obligations for a Payment Institution License in Lithuania
Securing a Payment Institution license in Lithuania is only the beginning. Licensed firms must maintain strict regulatory oversight under the Bank of Lithuania and comply with both national and EU-wide obligations (including PSD2 and evolving PSD3 rules). Non-compliance can lead to fines, license suspension, or criminal enforcement.
Key ongoing obligations for holders of a Lithuania Authorized Payment Institution license include:
Key Ongoing Compliance Requirements
- AML/KYC Procedures. Companies must implement and regularly update Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC)policies. This includes real-time transaction monitoring, screening of politically exposed persons (PEPs), and reporting suspicious activities to the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FNTT). APIs must meet Lithuania’s standards as well as EU-wide compliance under MiCA where applicable.
- Quarterly and Annual Filings. Institutions must file quarterly transaction reports, annual compliance audits, and independent financial statements. These documents must demonstrate risk management practices and the safeguarding of client funds – essential for operating a Lithuanian Payment Institution license company.
- Safeguarding Rules. Client funds must be protected via segregated accounts or appropriate insurance structures. Firms must submit safeguarding attestations regularly to the Bank of Lithuania, a crucial requirement when managing an API license in Lithuania.
- Tax and Reporting. Licensed APIs are subject to a 15% corporate income tax in Lithuania, with VAT registration required depending on service scope. Full bookkeeping, annual tax filings, and audit-trail maintenance are mandatory to retain a company with API license for sale in Lithuania in good standing.
- Renewal and Structural Changes. Although an API license in Lithuania does not expire, any changes to directors, UBOs, business models, or service offerings must be approved by the regulator. Late notifications can lead to immediate suspension or invalidation of the license.
- Penalties. Common violations such as missed filings, structural changes without approval, or AML failures can result in fines between €1,000 and €50,000 or permanent license revocation. Firms planning to get an API license in Lithuania must prepare for active, ongoing supervision.
How Legasset Supports Clients
Legasset provides full post-licensing compliance services, including:
- Full AML/KYC and safeguarding policy drafting and updates
- Preparation and filing of quarterly and annual regulatory reports
- Coordination of audit processes and bookkeeping for licensed entities
- Assistance with Financial Crime Investigation Service (FNTT) notifications and corporate restructuring
With Legasset, compliance is not just maintained – it is structured for regulatory scaling, keeping your API license Lithuania company operational and prepared for PSD3 and MiCA changes.
Common Pitfalls and Challenges of Operating Under a Payment Institution License in Lithuania
While holding a payment institution license in Lithuania offers companies direct access to the European payments market, operating under this license requires careful management of regulatory, operational, and banking challenges.
✔ Banking and Payment Provider Difficulties
Despite a valid license, many banks in Lithuania and across the EEA remain selective when onboarding newly licensed payment institutions. Companies often need to rely on Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs) or alternative Payment Service Providers (PSPs) for operational accounts. Delays of 8-12 weeks for account openings are common, even for compliant firms.
✔ Regulatory and Compliance Upgrades
The upcoming transition to PSD3 will significantly raise operational standards for payment institutions. Companies must reinforce cybersecurity, client data protection, and transaction monitoring frameworks or risk increased regulatory scrutiny and potential penalties from the Bank of Lithuania.
✔ Operational and Financial Pressures
Maintaining an Authorised Payment Institution license in Lithuania requires a real operational presence, including a staffed local office, compliance team, and audited financial records. Annual operational costs often exceed €50,000–€70,000 once full local staffing and safeguarding requirements are factored in, especially for growing institutions.
✔ Staffing and Governance Barriers
Firms must appoint a resident AML Compliance Officer, and directors with proven expertise in payments, finance, or compliance. Recruiting and retaining these qualified professionals in Lithuania can be time-consuming and costly, particularly as competition for talent increases among fintech companies.
How Legasset Helps Clients Overcome These Challenges
Our team supports clients by:
- Arranging relationships with crypto-friendly banks and EMIs for operational readiness.
- Auditing compliance structures early to ensure PSD3 readiness and avoid transition risks.
- Providing access to experienced, approved Lithuanian directors, AML Officers, and compliance consultants.
- Structuring full operational setups for both newly licensed firms and companies acquiring ready-made API licenses.
With Legasset’s operational support, businesses entering the payments market through Lithuania build a sustainable and compliant foundation for expansion across the European Economic Area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing a Payment Institution License in Lithuania
What services can I offer with a Lithuania API license?
With an Authorised Payment Institution (API) license in Lithuania, you can legally provide payment initiation, account management, money remittance, and merchant acquiring services across the entire European Economic Area (EEA). However, issuing electronic money requires a separate Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license.
How much does it cost to purchase a company with an API license in Lithuania?
Buying a ready-made company with an API license in Lithuania usually costs between €80,000 and €130,000, depending on the company’s operational history and compliance standing. Additional setup costs, including office rent, staffing, and regulatory filings, range from €30,000 to €70,000 annually.
Does a Lithuanian API license allow me to serve clients outside the EU?
A Lithuania payment institution license allows passporting across the EEA. Serving clients outside the EU is possible but depends on the regulatory stance of each non-EU country. Some jurisdictions may require additional registration or compliance filings.
What are the biggest challenges after obtaining a Lithuania API license?
Maintaining banking relationships is a frequent difficulty, as local banks may be cautious about onboarding new payment institutions. Firms must also manage strict AML/KYC monitoring, quarterly reporting to the Bank of Lithuania, and upcoming changes under PSD3. Compliance and operational readiness require continuous investment.
How can Legasset assist if I want to buy or obtain an API license in Lithuania?
Legasset helps businesses both buy a Lithuania API license company and obtain a new Authorised Payment Institution license directly through the Bank of Lithuania. Our services include licensing application support, regulatory compliance setup, staffing recruitment (AML Officers, directors), operational structuring, and full transition planning for PSD3 requirements. We also assist companies in upgrading or adjusting existing structures to meet future regulatory shifts.
Additional Links and Resources for Payment Institution Licenses in Lithuania
The official public list of licensed payment institutions supervised by the Bank of Lithuania. Provides up-to-date licensing status, compliance notes, and passporting information.
II. Law on Payment Institutions of the Republic of Lithuania
The primary legislation regulating payment services in Lithuania, aligned with PSD2 requirements. Crucial for understanding operational rights and obligations for API license holders.
III. Bank of Lithuania – AML/CTF Guidelines
Detailed anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing obligations for licensed financial institutions. Essential for preparing AML/KYC programs and compliance audits.
IV. EU MiCA Regulation
The official text of the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), which will impact payment and crypto services firms operating in Lithuania and across the EU.
V. Lithuanian State Tax Inspectorate – Corporate Income Tax Guide
Outlines Lithuania’s corporate taxation rules, including the 15% standard rate and the reduced 5% rate for eligible small entities.
