The world of financial technology is undergoing a rapid transformation. Traditional banking, which for decades provided financial infrastructure, no longer meets the needs of the market. Why? Account opening procedures have become too lengthy, document requirements often do not align with the realities of digital business, and international expansion is accompanied by additional barriers.
In this environment, companies are searching for practical solutions to operate globally. Legarithm, an international legal and consulting firm working in more than 50 countries, believes that companies now need to adapt quickly and find clear ways to deal with new rules and growing paperwork. The company notes that clear processes and reliable support are now more valuable than ever for businesses expanding across borders.
Over the past three years, more than 60% of fintech companies in Central and Eastern Europe have reported difficulties with launching international accounts. Application reviews can take months, and banks refuse to work even with fully compliant companies. As a result, businesses are looking for alternatives, and the key factor is no longer the country of registration, but the quality and speed of the financial infrastructure.
How new jurisdictions grant fintech new freedom
Change began when countries from various regions decided to position themselves as fintech hubs. The UAE, Lithuania, Cyprus, and several other centers have bet on digital companies, as well as simplifying KYC/AML requirements and enabling online account opening and licensing. These solutions have opened the door to multi-currency accounts, e-money, quick integration with payment systems and cryptocurrencies.
For example, in Lithuania and Cyprus, companies can not only register remotely but also obtain a financial license and connect to SWIFT, SEPA, Mastercard, or Visa. Sometimes this entire process can be completed in just a few weeks. The UAE has launched special zones for fintech, where digital identification and multi-currency infrastructure are in place.
From traditional banking to a fintech-friendly architecture
Traditional banks still think in terms of local regulation. If a company operates in several markets at once, it faces manual checks, the need for a physical office, and a lack of multi-currency tools. This is why fintech companies are increasingly adopting models based on EMI/PI licenses, e-money, and remote payment platforms.
Thanks to the modern approach of these jurisdictions, launching an international business is now faster. Companies adapt their structures, connect new payment tools, and stay up to date with changes in the substance or compliance requirements.
The role of EMI/PI licenses and multi-currency tools
Today, e-money (EMI) and payment institution (PI) licenses are not just alternatives to traditional banks, but essential tools for scaling up. They enable companies to:
·open multi-currency accounts for businesses from any jurisdiction,
·conduct international transfers without country or currency restrictions,
·integrate payment gateways for cards, e-wallets, and crypto assets,
·perform digital KYC and minimize manual checks,
·launch new products without needing a physical office.
According to the Lithuanian regulator, at the end of 2023, over 80 EMI/PI companies were operating in Lithuania, serving millions of clients across Europe. Cyprus and the UAE are seeing similar dynamics, with rapid growth in infrastructure and the number of payment providers.
Choosing a jurisdiction: what influences business decisions?
When a fintech company evaluates a country for registration, not only price and speed come to the forefront, but also the ability to manage accounts remotely, the availability of multi-currency solutions, the ease of passing compliance checks, the level of tax burden, and access to specialized legal and accounting services.
The clearer the rules and the faster a business can access accounts and licenses, the less time and money is lost on paperwork.
Why legal and compliance support is critical for modern fintech
Launching a company in a flexible jurisdiction does not remove the obligation to comply with international AML/KYC standards, reporting, and business structure transparency. Many fintech projects face blocked accounts or losses due to ignoring compliance requirements or poor company administration. The market has shown that those using professional support achieve more sustainable business models and better reputations with partners and clients. This is why more entrepreneurs are turning to teams specializing in international fintech support.
Trends for 2025: fintech moves toward full digitalization
Global banking is no longer about large offices or lengthy manual checks. The market demands something different: process automation, online registration, flexibility, and integration with a wide range of payment and crypto solutions. Jurisdictions that are first to adapt their laws to these needs are already gaining leadership in attracting fintech business. This is not just a trend. It is a direct response to the need for fast, transparent, and multi-currency tools for global teams.
