Google Revises Crypto App Listing Rules, Allows License-Exempt Providers to Apply

• Google has revised its registration policy for cryptocurrency exchange and wallet apps, allowing license-exempt providers to apply through a separate process.
• The scope of eligible providers has widened in some overseas markets, with Hong Kong's VATP license and the United Arab Emirates' CMA authorization now included in the listing requirements.
• In South Korea, Financial Intelligence Unit Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) filing remains mandatory, and the change is an exception-based application system that preserves country-specific regulatory requirements, not blanket approval for all unlicensed apps.

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Google has revised its listing policy for cryptocurrency exchange and wallet applications, creating a separate application process for providers exempt from licensing requirements.

According to Google Play's developer policy on November 10, Google revised its rules for crypto exchange and wallet apps in October and added an exception allowing services to apply for listing even when local law does not require a license.

Previously, companies seeking to launch an app had to meet country-specific licensing requirements. Under the revised policy, services can request a review through a separate process even when legal approval or registration is not required. Developers must be prepared to submit the basis for their exemption and supporting documents.

In some overseas markets, the scope of recognized business qualifications has also expanded. In Hong Kong, a Virtual Asset Trading Platform, or VATP, license issued by the Securities and Futures Commission is now included in the listing requirements. In the United Arab Emirates, providers authorized by the Capital Markets Authority, or CMA, are also eligible.

By contrast, the rules for domestic operators remain unchanged. In South Korea, providers offering cryptocurrency exchange or wallet apps must still complete a Virtual Asset Service Provider, or VASP, filing with the Financial Intelligence Unit.

The policy change does not mean Google will allow listings for all crypto apps lacking regulatory approval. Instead, the company has kept country-specific regulatory requirements in place while providing a separate application path only for services that are legally exempt from licensing.

Suehyeon Lee