All services

Practice area

Financial Services & FCA

We advise payment institutions, e-money issuers, money remittance businesses and fintechs on FCA authorisations, ongoing regulatory obligations and product compliance — from initial scoping through to authorisation, launch and supervision.

On authorisations, we prepare and submit Authorised Payment Institution (API), Small Payment Institution (SPI) and Electronic Money Institution (EMI) applications, including the regulatory business plan, programme of operations, governance arrangements, capital adequacy and safeguarding documentation required by the FCA.

On the regulatory perimeter, we advise on the Payment Services Regulations 2017, the Electronic Money Regulations 2011, the FCA Handbook and the interface with AML, sanctions and the Consumer Duty. We work closely with our AML team so the same firm can deliver authorisation, AML and ongoing compliance support.

Indicative pricing — FCA authorisation packages start from £5,000 + VAT, plus FCA and HMRC fees. Quoted on a fixed-fee basis wherever the scope allows.

How we can help

  • FCA authorisation (API, SPI, EMI)
  • Payment Services Regulations 2017
  • Electronic Money Regulations 2011
  • Money remittance businesses
  • Safeguarding & capital adequacy
  • Regulatory business plans
  • Change-in-control filings
  • Consumer Duty compliance

Our process

  1. 1

    Initial consultation

    Confidential discussion of your matter, the documents available and any time-critical deadlines that apply.

  2. 2

    Strategy & costs

    A clear written assessment of your options, realistic prospects and a stage-by-stage costs estimate so you can decide how to proceed.

  3. 3

    Active progression

    We carry out the agreed work — drafting, correspondence, negotiation or court proceedings — keeping you fully informed at each stage.

  4. 4

    Resolution

    We secure the best available outcome and advise on any next steps, enforcement or follow-on work required.

Discuss your matter in confidence

Every case starts with a conversation. Speak directly with one of our solicitors and we will explain the options available to you.

Frequently asked questions

What does FCA authorisation cost?
Our packages start from £5,000 + VAT plus the FCA application fee, which depends on the permission sought. We will confirm the right permission and the total cost during the scoping call.
How long does FCA authorisation take?
The statutory determination period is typically 3 months for a complete application and up to 12 months for an incomplete one. In practice, well-prepared applications usually complete within 4–6 months.
Do you also handle ongoing FCA compliance?
Yes — we provide ongoing compliance support, regulatory reporting, change-in-control filings and assistance with FCA supervisory engagement after authorisation.

Have a different question? Contact our team for confidential advice tailored to your circumstances.