Bank of Ghana Orders Mandatory Registration for All Crypto Firms

The Ghanaian central bank has announced a mandatory registration process for all virtual asset service providers operating in the country.

Registration Covers Broad Range of Crypto Activities

The Bank of Ghana (BOG) has issued a public notice requiring all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) operating within the country to undergo a mandatory registration process. The move is part of a preliminary effort to gather data on the crypto industry as the central bank prepares to implement a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework.

According to the notice, the registration is a key step to “promote integrity, innovation and consumer protection in the digital financial ecosystem.” The deadline for all entities to complete the registration is August 15, 2025.

The mandatory registration applies to a wide range of virtual asset activities, including but not limited to virtual asset exchange services, wallet provision or custody services. Transfer or settlement services involving virtual assets as well as services related to the issuance or sale of virtual assets and stablecoins.

As previously reported, the Ghanaian central bank has said it plans to begin regulating VASPs by the end of September. The bank’s governor, Johnson Asiama, who made the announcement during a recent visit to Washington, D.C., also revealed that the central bank will establish a dedicated digital asset unit.

Meanwhile, the BOG stated that this exercise is aimed at ensuring that forthcoming regulations are “informed by market developments and aligned with international best practices.” All VASPs, whether they have a physical presence or operate solely through digital platforms, must complete the process via a provided online form.

The central bank also warned that registration is compulsory and that failure to comply may result in “regulatory sanctions or disqualification from future licensing.”

Crucially, the notice clarifies that registration “does not constitute a licence to operate, nor does it imply legal recognition or approval.” The bank said it reserves the right to issue further directives based on its assessment.