Binance Applies for Greek MiCA License to Secure EU-Wide Approval

Binance is making a decisive move in Europe. The world’s largest crypto exchange has applied for a Markets in Crypto Assets license through Greece. The application went to the Hellenic Capital Market Commission in Athens this week.

JUST IN: 🇪🇺 Binance applies for EU-wide MiCA license via Greece. pic.twitter.com/77YByt41EF

— Whale Insider (@WhaleInsider) January 23, 2026

The timing matters. Full MiCA enforcement begins on July 1, 2026. Firms that fail to comply risk losing access to the EU market. By applying now Binance signals it wants to stay for the long haul. If approved, the license would allow Binance to operate across all 27 EU member states under one regulatory framework.

What MiCA means for crypto firms in Europe

MiCA is the European Union’s first full crypto rulebook. Lawmakers introduced it in 2023 to bring order to a fast growing industry. Since late 2024, crypto asset service providers must meet strict standards. Under MiCA, exchanges need one license from an EU country. After that, they can “passport” services across the bloc. This covers trading, custody and stablecoin operations. The goal is simple. Protect users, standardize rules and remove legal gray zones. After July 2026, platforms without approval may face limits or outright bans. As a result, exchanges are racing to secure licenses before the deadline.

Why Binance chose Greece

Binance is applying through Greece instead of other popular hubs. The company has set up a new local unit called Binary Greece. It is a wholly owned subsidiary with initial capital of €25,000. Binance is also in active talks with Greek regulators. The choice surprised some observers, who expected Malta or Latvia. Still, Greece offers a fresh path.

Importantly, Greece has not issued a MiCA license yet. Germany and the Netherlands currently lead approvals. That means the process is still open and competitive. Binance already holds national licenses in France and Italy. But those approvals don’t grant EU wide access, a MiCA license would. This move builds on Binance’s broader compliance push after years of regulatory pressure.

Pressure builds as deadlines approach

The application comes amid rising scrutiny. In recent months, regulators warned that many crypto firms still operate without MiCA approval. France’s AMF even listed Binance among dozens that must comply or exit. By filing now, Binance aims to remove doubt. Approval would boost legitimacy. It would also reassure users and partners.

There could be a market impact too. A clear EU path may improve confidence around Binance services. Some traders also see potential upside for BNB if regulatory risks fade. More broadly, MiCA favors large, well funded platforms. Smaller or offshore exchanges may struggle to meet the new rules. As a result, Europe’s crypto market may consolidate.

What comes next

If Greek regulators approve the application. Binance can now passport services across the EU. Notably, that would mark a major milestone ahead of the July 2026 cutoff. Indeed, the move shows a shift in tone because Binance now wants alignment, not confrontation. Furthermore, for Europe, it signals a maturing crypto market where rules are clear, deadlines are firm and big players are adapting. Ultimately, for Binance, the message is simple: Europe matters and compliance is the price of staying in the game.