What is FCA authorisation for APIs?

FCA authorisation is the permission granted by the UK Financial Conduct Authority that allows a firm to carry out regulated activities. For APIs, this may include payment services regulation compliance and meeting FCA’s conduct and prudential requirements.

What documents are needed for an FCA authorisation application?

Documents typically include a business plan, governance and organisational structure, risk framework, compliance policies (AML, KYC, data protection), financial projections, capital adequacy plans, and details of senior management and internal controls.

How long does the FCA authorisation process take?

The duration depends on the completeness of your application, business complexity, and FCA’s review process. It can take several weeks to a few months depending on clarity and regulator questions.

What is a gap & readiness assessment prior to application?

It involves reviewing your current compliance, controls, policies and operational setup, comparing them with FCA expectations to identify gaps you need to close before submitting the application.

Do you handle communications with the FCA during submission?

Yes — part of the service includes responding to FCA queries, clarifications, modifications or additional requests during the review process to support a successful application.

What is regulatory readiness validation?

It means verifying that your governance, capital, staff, policies, systems, controls and risk management meet the regulatory requirements and expectations of the FCA before you submit the application.

Can you help if the FCA requests changes or rejects part of the submission?

Yes. We assist with revisions, supplements, responses to feedback, and resubmissions to address the regulator’s concerns until full authorisation is granted.

FCA Authorisation Application Support | Draft & Submit Services

FCA Authorisation – Application Drafting & Submission

ABM provides end-to-end support for firms seeking FCA authorisation as an Electronic Money Institution (AEMI). Our services are designed to guide you through the complex regulatory landscape, ensuring full compliance with FCA rules and EMR requirements while streamlining the application process. We work closely with your team to prepare a comprehensive submission that demonstrates your readiness to operate as a fully authorised electronic money institution.

Initial Consultation & Gap Analysis

Our process begins with an in-depth consultation to understand your business model, services, and strategic objectives. We conduct a thorough gap analysis to identify areas where your operations may fall short of FCA expectations, covering capital adequacy, governance structures, safeguarding arrangements, IT security, and compliance procedures. By assessing these areas early, we provide a clear roadmap to address regulatory requirements and ensure that your firm is fully prepared for the application process.

Capital Resources & Financial Planning

A critical element of FCA authorisation is demonstrating that your firm possesses sufficient financial resources to operate safely and sustainably. ABM assists in evaluating your required capital levels based on the nature of your electronic money services and risk profile. We help prepare detailed financial forecasts, liquidity plans, and stress testing documentation, ensuring that your firm can maintain adequate resources under various operational scenarios. Our approach guarantees that your financial planning aligns with FCA expectations and EMR-specific capital rules.

Safeguarding & Client Money Arrangements

Protecting client funds is a fundamental FCA requirement for electronic money institutions. ABM guides you in establishing safeguarding procedures that comply with EMR obligations, including segregated client accounts, reconciliation processes, and internal controls to prevent misuse. We also assist in drafting policies and procedural documentation that clearly demonstrate your commitment to protecting client assets. This ensures that your institution operates with transparency, integrity, and full regulatory compliance.

Governance & Compliance Frameworks

Effective governance and robust compliance frameworks are vital for gaining FCA approval. ABM works with your leadership team to design governance structures, including Board responsibilities, reporting lines, and accountability mechanisms. We help draft compliance manuals, internal controls, and risk management policies, ensuring that your institution has a strong oversight framework capable of monitoring operational and regulatory adherence. Our guidance emphasizes a culture of accountability and regulatory diligence that the FCA expects from authorised firms.

IT Security & Operational Systems

FCA regulations place a strong emphasis on operational resilience and IT security for electronic money services. ABM evaluates your IT infrastructure to ensure it meets regulatory standards for data protection, transaction integrity, and cybersecurity. We assist in developing IT policies, disaster recovery plans, and incident response procedures, ensuring that your systems are robust, reliable, and capable of supporting the safe issuance of electronic money. This framework not only satisfies FCA requirements but also strengthens your operational efficiency.

Documentation Drafting & Review

The success of an AEMI application depends on precise and comprehensive documentation. ABM prepares all necessary materials, including business plans, risk assessments, safeguarding statements, internal policies, and EMR-specific disclosures. Each document is carefully drafted, reviewed, and refined to ensure clarity, consistency, and compliance with FCA standards. By providing a complete and polished application package, we minimize the risk of queries or delays during the FCA review process.

Application Submission & FCA Liaison

Once the documentation is ready, ABM manages the full submission process. We compile and submit your FCA application and act as the primary point of contact with the regulator, handling any queries or requests for additional information. Our team ensures that all communications are timely, accurate, and professional, facilitating a smooth interaction with the FCA and helping to prevent unnecessary delays.

Post-Submission Support

Even after submission, ABM continues to support your institution throughout the FCA assessment phase. We provide guidance on responding to regulatory queries, prepare your team for potential interviews or inspections, and assist in implementing any final recommendations to secure authorisation. Our ongoing support ensures that your firm remains fully compliant and prepared to operate as an authorised electronic money institution from day one.