FCA Authorisation Readiness Checklist

Applying for FCA authorisation is a significant undertaking that typically takes 6-12 months from initial preparation to final approval. This checklist helps you track your readiness across the seven key areas the FCA will assess:

• Legal Entity & Corporate Structure: UK incorporation, ownership chain, group structure
• Key Individuals & SMFs: Senior Management Functions under SM&CR
• Capital & Financial Resources: Prudential requirements and funding evidence
• Office & Operational Substance: UK premises and operational setup
• Existing Materials for Adaptation: Policies and procedures to adapt for UK regulation
• Regulatory & Background Information: Disclosure and regulatory history
• Business Plan Inputs: Client base, activities, revenue, and fee structures

Items marked “Client & MEMA” indicate areas where our regulatory consultants typically work alongside the applicant firm to prepare the required documentation and analysis.