meta_id 3028097

On 1 April 2026, the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF), Luxembourg's competent authority, announced its application of the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) Guidelines for the criteria on the assessment of knowledge and competence under the Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA). The Guidelines (ESMA35-24871704-2922) were published by ESMA on 28 January 2026 and become effective on 28 July 2026. The Guidelines establish consistent supervisory practices across the European System of Financial Supervision and ensure uniform application of Articles 68(5) and 81(7) of MiCA. They apply to crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) and set out criteria for assessing staff knowledge and competence when providing information or advice on crypto-assets or crypto-asset services. The Guidelines distinguish between two service types: staff giving information must demonstrate knowledge through either 80 hours of professional qualification plus six months supervised experience, or one year of supervised experience. Staff providing advice face higher standards, requiring tertiary education plus one year supervised experience, or equivalent qualifications. Both categories must complete continuous professional development annually—minimum 10 hours for information provision and 20 hours for advisory services. Existing staff providing relevant services for at least one year prior to the Guidelines' entry into force may be considered as meeting competence requirements. The Guidelines also establish organisational requirements, including annual management body reviews of compliance policies, staff assessment procedures, and supervision protocols for staff lacking necessary qualifications or experience. The CSSF has integrated these Guidelines into its administrative practices and regulatory approach. Competent authorities must notify ESMA within two months of publication whether they comply, intend to comply, or do not intend to comply with the Guidelines. The Guidelines apply to all CASPs as defined in Article 3(1)(15) of Regulation (EU) 2023/1114 from 28 July 2026.