UK Crypto AML Compliance: Rules, Costs, and 2025 Changes You Can't Ignore

When you run a crypto business in the UK, UK crypto AML compliance, the legal framework requiring crypto firms to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. Also known as crypto anti-money laundering rules, it’s not optional—it’s enforced by the FCA, the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates all crypto businesses operating in the country. If you’re not registered with them, you’re operating illegally. And in 2025, the stakes are higher than ever.

The Travel Rule, a global requirement that crypto firms share sender and receiver info for transactions over €1,000 is now fully active in the UK. That means every exchange, wallet provider, and even P2P platform must collect and transmit personal data on every large transfer. It’s not just about big players—small businesses are being audited too. The FCA also requires any individual or entity owning 10% or more of a crypto firm to be disclosed. Failure to report that? You could face fines, suspension, or criminal charges.

Registration isn’t cheap. The FCA charges up to £5,000 just to apply, plus ongoing fees and compliance costs that can run tens of thousands a year. And it’s not a one-time thing. You need ongoing monitoring, staff training, transaction reporting, and risk assessments. The FSMA, the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023, which is being fully rolled out in 2025-2026 is tightening everything. More businesses are being pulled into regulation, and the FCA is actively shutting down unregistered platforms. You can’t rely on loopholes anymore.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t theory—it’s real-world breakdowns of what’s happening right now. From how the Travel Rule impacts small traders to why some UK crypto firms are failing their FCA audits, these articles cut through the noise. You’ll see what’s required, what’s changing, and what happens when you ignore the rules. No fluff. No guesswork. Just what you need to stay compliant—or avoid getting caught.