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A Guide to Your Labuan Exchange License

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the application process for establishing a financial exchange in Labuan IBFC, highlighting key requirements and timelines.

Minimum Capital

RM500K

Paid-up capital unimpaired by losses for a standard license.

Processing Fee

$350

Non-refundable fee for normal applications.

Client Charter

30 Days

Standard processing time for a complete submission.

Application Journey: Estimated Timeline

The application process is a phased journey with varying timelines. This chart provides an estimate of the duration for each key phase, which is crucial for strategic planning. The total timeline can be longer depending on the applicant's response time to queries from the LFSA.

The Four Phases of Application

Phase 1: Initial Preparation

This phase involves foundational steps to ensure your company and its key personnel meet the fundamental requirements set by the regulator before a formal application is made.

1

Labuan Company Incorporation

Register your entity with a licensed Labuan Trust Company as a prerequisite for the license application.

2

Appoint Directors & Officers

Appoint a minimum of two directors with relevant experience and a Labuan-based resident secretary.

3

Secure Local Office & Staff

Establish a physical, operational office in Labuan and fulfill minimum local staffing requirements.

Phase 2: Documentation & Strategy

With the corporate structure in place, the focus shifts to creating a comprehensive and detailed application package that articulates your business model and compliance strategy to the LFSA.

4

Develop Comprehensive Business Plan

Craft a detailed 3-year business plan including financial projections, marketing strategy, and target markets.

5

Draft Compliance & IT Frameworks

Prepare essential policies on anti-money laundering (AML), countering financing of terrorism (CFT), and IT security.

6

Prepare Operational Procedures

Outline the operational manuals and procedures, including a credible exit plan to ensure orderly market withdrawal.

Phase 3: Submission & Review

This phase marks the formal submission of your application package to the LFSA, which will conduct a thorough review and may request additional information to ensure all requirements are met.

7

Submit Application & Pay Fees

Your Labuan Trust Company will compile and submit the complete application and pay the required processing fee via LEPAY.

8

LFSA Review & Interviews

The LFSA will assess the application and may conduct interviews with key personnel to determine their fitness and propriety.

9

Conditional Approval

Upon satisfaction, the LFSA issues a conditional approval outlining all remaining requirements to be fulfilled before a final license is granted.

Phase 4: Post-Approval & Issuance

The final phase involves meeting all conditional requirements and providing proof of compliance to the LFSA to receive your full, unconditional license and begin operations.

10

Fulfill Conditions

Inject the minimum paid-up capital into your company's bank account and provide proof to the LFSA.

11

Final Compliance Submission

Your Trust Company submits proof of all fulfilled conditions to the LFSA for final verification.

12

License Issuance

Upon final approval, you will receive your official Labuan Exchange License and can commence business operations.

Key Components of Your Application

A successful application depends on a robust set of documents. This chart categorizes the key components required, highlighting their relative importance to the overall submission package. Each part is critical for demonstrating your venture's credibility and readiness.