Speed
The fastest forex licences, and what you give up for speed
Speed and recognition pull in opposite directions. Here are the quickest routes, ranked, with an honest note on what each one does and does not give you.
Updated
The fastest routes are a Saint Lucia IBC (no licence, days to about two weeks) and Comoros licences from Mwali or Anjouan (weeks, disputed recognition). Regulated offshore licences such as Seychelles or Mauritius take several months.
Quickest routes, ranked
| Route | Typical timeline | What you get | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Lucia IBC | Days to about two weeks with documents | A company that can support an MT5 licence application | No FX licence |
| Comoros – Mwali | About 2–3 weeks | An offshore brokerage licence | Disputed recognition |
| Comoros – Anjouan | A few weeks | An offshore brokerage licence | Disputed recognition |
| Seychelles | Typically 3–6 months | A regulated securities dealer licence | Resident staff and office since 2025 |
| Mauritius | Typically 4–8 months | A regulated investment dealer licence | Resident directors and officers |
Indicative timelines from receipt of complete documents. Regulators set their own pace.
Start fast, upgrade later
Many brokers combine speed and credibility: they launch with a Saint Lucia IBC or a Mwali licence, then add a regulated entity in Mauritius or Seychelles once the business proves itself. Plan the group structure from the start so the second licence does not require rebuilding everything.
Not sure which licence is right for you?
Tell us your business model and target markets. We will shortlist jurisdictions and send a fixed, itemised proposal.