The state has become one of the most active EU nations service providers who are working with e-money. The local legal system gives clear standards for the enrollment of Electronic Money Institutions (EMI) in Spain that wish to issue e-money, process transactions, and offer related services. Banco de España (BdE) supervises the sector and guarantees that each licensed firm maintains the necessary administration systems and exposure control processes. The official permit enables firms to expand their services, work with EU banking partners, and access SEPA/SWIFT via sponsor establishments. For fintech groups, the state is deemed a balanced option: advanced infrastructure, predictable law, and entry to the European sector.
Spain EMI License Requirements
To receive the e-money license in Spain, the organization has to be incorporated under local law with its registered office here. The threshold for the paid-up foundation is €350,000. The entity has to corroborate that these funds are available and remain in its bank account until the final approval. The administration must consist of at least two directors with adequate proficiency in financial or banking fields, one of whom ought to be a resident of the country.
The applicant prepares a package which encompasses a firm strategy, three-year forecasts, policy for managing risks, internal control framework, AML materials, and CVs of key persons. The BdE examines the competence and standing of administration and shareholders. The firm must show that client money will be safeguarded in segregated accounts opened with reliable credit establishments. Organizational protocols are obliged to guarantee the accurate documentation and oversight of each operation, fraud prevention, and data protection.
Pros of permission
Electronic money institution (EMI) license in Spain gives direct entry to the EEA via passporting. Once enrolled, the company can deliver offerings in other EU countries under a single framework. This structure allows a Spanish Electronic Money Institution (EMI) to serve clients across the Union under one supervisory regime.
Another advantage is the country’s reputation in the monetary sphere. Local supervision is recognized for its clarity, which strengthens trust among partners, investors, and correspondent banks. The Electronic Money Institution license in Spain also enables integration with European payment systems such as SEPA and SWIFT, which are essential for executing cross-border fund movements and settlement operations. Access to SEPA/SWIFT is not automatic; EMIs typically connect via sponsoring participants and must meet scheme and technical requirements.
In addition, the state offers a flexible approach for fintech and online bank projects. The law covers various service models — from card issuance and wallet systems to vendor processing. The environment combines clear rules with an established ecosystem, which simplifies partnership with local and multinational firms.
Procedure for Obtaining EMI License in Spain
The course of action begins with forming a local firm and paying in the demanded capital. After the corporate structure is in place, the applicant prepares the documentation package. All materials must be in local language or accompanied by certified translations.
The next step is sending them to the BdE. It reviews the materials and may request clarifications. The review focuses on economic projections, enterprise structure, transaction monitoring, and managing risks. Several communication rounds with the regulator are typical.
Once all demands are met, the EMI (Electronic Money Institution) license in Spain is given and the firm appears in the official register. The total timeframe varies from 8 to 12 months for a full EMI in Spain and around 3–5 months for small Electronic Money Institutions in Spain. The permitted organization must regularly send reports and keep up an adequate sum relative to transaction volume.
Professional assistance at the preparation stage helps reduce delays, since even minor inaccuracies in the financial or legal part can lead to requests for revision and extend the review period.
What Is Included in Our Services
Eternity Law International gives full legal and corporate backing for those planning to buy EMI license in Spain. The scope of services includes:
- Preliminary review of the client’s firm model and advice on choosing the suitable form (full or small entity).
- Incorporation of a firm, arrangement of the charter and enrollment with the official database.
- Preparing the strategy, projections, AML materials, and operational procedures.
- Backing in creating a fiscal or safeguarding arrangement for customer resources.
- Coordination of interaction with the BdE during all stages.
- Translation and notarisation of materials.
- Support after EMI licensing in Spain: accounting, reporting, legal maintenance, and updates under regional law.
Our specialists also assist with related tasks — purchase of ready-made companies with an existing permission, M&A transactions, and preparation for international expansion.
Taxation of EMI in Spain
A firm holding an e-money license in Spain is subject to the country’s general corporate tax regime. Profits generated from issuing digital balances and related activities are taxed under standard rules. Country’s standard corporate income tax is 25% (with possible 15% for certain new entities for an initial period, subject to conditions). Core payment/e-money services are typically VAT-exempt; ancillary services may be taxable.
How Much Does EMI License in Spain Cost?
The total cost of obtaining an EMI license in Spain includes several components.
- Share capital — at least €350,000, deposited before submission.
- Government and registration fees — moderate compared to other EU states.
- Professional services — depend on the complexity of the structure, number of shareholders, and level of regulatory communication. On average, legal and consulting expenses for a full EMI range from €80,000 to €120,000.
Smaller entity or PI projects may reduce expenses significantly, as they require less sum and a simplified package. Ongoing costs include accounting, audits, reporting, and office maintenance. Proper planning at the initial stage helps optimize the total price and speed up approval.
Our Advantages
Eternity Law International combines legal, corporate, tax, and financial expertise. We assist clients worldwide in getting diverse official permits, creating bank accounts, purchasing ready-made entities, and handling complex cross-border structures. The firm’s experience in authorizing for payment, forex, and fintech projects ensures full procedural control and realistic timing.
Conclusion
Opening an entity in such a jurisdiction implies tapping into a robust and well-regulated ecosystem in Europe, with clear standards and strong infrastructure. Professional guidance will, therefore, help companies in moving at pace through the approval process, be able to be compliant, thus leaving them to focus on scaling activities across several markets. The environment is growth-friendly, credibility-fostering, and establishes long-term stability for innovative endeavors looking to grow their reach.
In addition, you can take a look at Estonia forex permits or think over the opportunity of getting a gaming license for sale.
FAQ
Advantages of EMI license in Spain
The endorsement lets a firm perform its actions across continental states without seeking clearance from each and every market. It improves the reputation before clients, partners, and investors. It, therefore, furthers cooperation and negotiation of agreements. On the side of the approved entities, major payment networks can be accessed, prepaid solutions offered, and customer accounts maintained. This country follows a transparent and very stable framework, effectively lessening the functional uncertainty and driving trust from external stakeholders.
How to Obtain an EMI in Spain
The course of action begins by creating a local entity and securing the necessary funds. The team must prepare detailed strategies, functional guidelines, and manuals, along with resumes of the senior administration. These papers are sent to the local controlling body. The submission is reviewed, and if complementary data is needed, it will be demanded. Once approved, the entity is officially recorded, and its services can be made available. Expert guidance can make arrangement smoother and ensure everything adheres to rules from the outset.
Why Spain for an EMI license?
The country gives a protected setting alongside connectivity to continental payment networks. It has experienced supervisors and a clear reporting system, which lowers uncertainty for operators entering the market. Setting up a local firm is straightforward, and expansion across the continent can be achieved with one approval. The amalgamation of infrastructure, openness, and international credibility makes it an appealing choice for new entrants.