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AML Compliance for CASPs in Poland: What You Need to Know Under MiCA

AML Compliance for CASPs in Poland: What You Need to Know Under MiCA

As the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) takes effect, crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) operating in Poland face new regulatory expectations — particularly when it comes to anti-money laundering (AML) compliance.

For CASPs looking to apply for a MiCA license, or those already preparing their Polish operations, understanding what’s required under Polish law and what GIIF expects is essential to avoid delays, penalties, or reputational risk.

In this article, we break down key AML obligations for CASPs in Poland, the role of local institutions like GIIF and KNF, and how providers can meet these standards — efficiently and sustainably.

 

Why AML Compliance Matters for CASPs in Poland

AML obligations under MiCA aren’t optional. CASPs must implement and maintain robust compliance frameworks to prevent money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit use of crypto assets.

While MiCA sets the harmonized AML foundation across the EU, each Member State retains its own supervisory bodies. In Poland:

  • GIIF (Generalny Inspektor Informacji Finansowej) oversees AML and CFT (counter-terrorism financing) obligations.
  • KNF (Polish Financial Supervision Authority) handles licensing and operational oversight for CASPs.

Polish CASPs must meet both EU-level obligations under MiCA and national-level expectations enforced by GIIF and KNF.

 

Key AML Requirements for Polish CASPs

Below are the core AML responsibilities for CASPs operating in Poland:

1. AML/CFT Policy & Risk Assessment

Every CASP must maintain a documented AML policy tailored to its business model. This includes:

  • Internal AML/CFT procedures
  • Customer risk classification
  • Transaction risk thresholds
  • Assessment of products, services, and delivery channels

The policy must be reviewed regularly to reflect updated legal requirements or new risks in the market.

 

2. Appointment of a Compliance Officer / MLRO

CASPs must appoint a designated AML compliance officer (often known as an MLRO – Money Laundering Reporting Officer). This person must be based in Poland and meet GIIF’s “fit and proper” requirements.

The MLRO is responsible for overseeing AML operations, submitting reports, and liaising with regulators.

 

3. Know Your Customer (KYC) & KYB Procedures

CASPs must apply thorough KYC (for individuals) and KYB (for corporate clients) processes. These include:

  • Identity verification
  • Beneficial ownership checks
  • Sanctions screening
  • Ongoing customer due diligence (CDD)

Transaction monitoring systems should be implemented to flag suspicious activity and ensure ongoing risk assessment.

 

4. Suspicious Activity Reporting (SARs)

All CASPs are required to submit SARs to GIIF whenever there is reason to suspect illegal activity. These reports must be timely, well-documented, and prepared in accordance with GIIF guidelines in AML act.

 

5. Quarterly Reporting Obligations

CASPs must submit regular reports to GIIF regarding their AML activity, risk exposure, and internal controls. Failure to comply with these reporting deadlines can trigger audits or administrative sanctions.

 

Local Presence: A Legal Requirement

Under both MiCA and KNF expectations, licensed CASPs operating in Poland must maintain a local office and employ key personnel locally. This includes:

  • A registered office in Poland
  • An appointed MLRO or Head of Compliance physically present
  • Staff familiar with Polish AML regulations and internal procedures

This local presence does not only ensure that the CASP’s activity is compliant with the highest standards — it also demonstrates the provider’s ability to manage regulatory risk effectively.

 

Challenges in Meeting AML Compliance Internally

For many CASPs, especially startups or international firms expanding into Poland, meeting all these obligations internally can be difficult. Common issues include:

  • Lack of local regulatory expertise
  • Shortage of experienced AML officers
  • High cost of building a full in-house compliance function
  • Difficulty maintaining up-to-date documentation as regulations evolve

That’s why many providers turn to outsourced AML support for operational efficiency and reduced risk.

 

How Complium Supports AML Compliance for CASPs in Poland

At Complium, we offer tailored support for CASPs navigating Poland’s regulatory landscape. Whether you’re applying for a MiCA license or managing an active entity, our services include:

  • Ongoing AML Compliance Monitoring
  • KYC and KYB oversight
  • SAR preparation and regulatory updates
  • Quarterly reporting to GIIF
  • AML policy drafting and updates aligned with MiCA
  • Staff training and onboarding support for compliance roles
  • Office setup and registered address support

We also help your compliance team stay up to date with quarterly reviews of GIIF obligations and legislative updates — ensuring your procedures evolve with the law.

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Final Thoughts

Poland offers a strong gateway to the EU crypto market — but operating here requires a structured, well-maintained AML compliance program.

Whether you’re a newly registered CASP or already preparing your MiCA licensing application, it’s important to ensure your AML framework is not only compliant today but scalable for future regulatory expectations.

Need support navigating AML compliance in Poland?
At Complium, we help CASPs meet all GIIF and MiCA obligations — from documentation and reporting to local presence and ongoing advisory.

Book a free consultation to discuss your AML setup in Poland.

Let us help you stay compliant, confident, and MiCA-ready.

 

OFFICE DETAILSOffice

Poland office: +48 537 983 725
Estonian office: +372 5874 6380
office@complium.eu

COMPANY DETAILSComplium Poland Sp. Z.o.o

Registry code:  0001089880
VAT number: 5252993463
Office: Solipska 3/5, 02-482 Warszawa

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