Swiss Bitcoin app Relai has become one of the first Bitcoin-only companies to receive regulatory approval under Europe’s innovative Market for Cryptocurrency (MiCA) framework.
According to a note shared with Bitcoin Magazine, the Zurich-based company announced today that it has received authorization as a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) from the French Financial Markets Authority (AMF).
This approval marks a significant moment not only for Relai, but for the broader Bitcoin ecosystem in Europe. The MiCA regulation, which came into force earlier this year, establishes uniform rules for crypto companies across the EU, with the aim of increasing investor protection and reducing regulatory fragmentation between member states.
While major exchanges like Binance and Coinbase are still navigating complex licensing processes, early approval gives Relai a head start as one of the first Bitcoin-only companies to achieve compliance.
“We are very proud to be one of the first Bitcoin companies to receive a MiCA license, and we look forward to expanding into France first and then Europe in a second step,” said Julian Liniger, co-founder and CEO of Relai. “This is a big moment for Bitcoin adoption on the continent.”
Relai is expanding its Bitcoin-only vision across Europe
Founded in Zurich in 2020, Relai has grown despite a strict regulatory environment for digital assets.
The company closed a Series A funding round last year, had over 500,000 app downloads, and established itself as an easy-to-use gateway for European retail investors looking for exposure to Bitcoin without an intermediary.
Securing the MiCA license allows Relai to “passport” its services across the EU. This means that once the formal notification process is completed, it will be able to operate in all 27 member countries.
The company plans to introduce a series of new features tailored to European users, including instant SEPA payments, higher transaction limits, fixed price transparency, and enhanced security standards.
Relai will also invest in education and community building, launch localized learning resources, and sponsor Bitcoin events across Europe.
“Our goal is clear: to bring simple, secure, and regulated Bitcoin to as many people as possible,” said Adem Billican, co-founder and president of Relai EU.
The company is also strengthening its governance with a newly appointed advisory board, which includes industry veterans Jean Guillaume, Daniel Astraud, and Hervé de Kerdrel, who will provide guidance on regulatory compliance and strategic growth.
Relai will leverage the MiCA approval to expand across Europe, with marketing campaigns and app updates planned for 2026.
Yesterday, Blockchain.com announced that it has also received a MiCA license from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).
Source: https://bitcoinmagazine.com/business/relai-secures-mica-license-in-france
