Start by identifying the business activities, not by choosing a license label. Issuance technology, custody and distribution may raise different regulatory questions.
Map the actual business activities
Describe whether the business issues, structures, markets, safeguards, exchanges or provides technology for digital assets. Local regulatory counsel should match these functions to current CNAD rules.
Build an operationally credible application
Review corporate structure, beneficial ownership, management qualifications, governance, cybersecurity, business continuity, AML/KYC, audit and contracts. The regulator publishes requirements and decides on registration.
Be careful with cross-border claims
An El Salvador registration is not a global license passport. Firms serving clients elsewhere must independently assess the jurisdictions in which their activities are regulated.
Common questions
Is regulatory approval guaranteed?
No. CNAD alone decides applications and may request additional evidence.
Can an overseas firm rely only on its El Salvador registration?
Not necessarily. Other countries can impose their own licensing and solicitation rules.
Primary references
- Ley de Emisión de Activos Digitales (LEAD) — CNAD ↗
- Cómo registrarse como PSAD — CNAD ↗
- Preguntas frecuentes — CNAD ↗
Review current rules, requirements and official registers before acting.
Discuss a real project
Tell us what you need and we can evaluate the next step.