MiCA-based
Latest Update: January 2026
5/5- 112
- Advanced
- English
5/5
112
Advanced
EnglishCAPS Certification for European Union CASPs
Regulations: MiCAR, DORA, GDPR and EU AML Framework
CPD-Certified Activity
What you will learn on the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Principal Specialist for European Union CASPs course:
- Compliance Programs: Master the development and implementation of comprehensive compliance frameworks, including KYC, CDD, EDD, and transaction monitoring.
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies: Gain a thorough understanding of blockchain technology, its core principles, and the various types of cryptocurrencies, including tokens, stablecoins, NFTs, and CBDCs.
- Regulatory Mastery: Understand the European Union AML/CTF+ regulatory approach, focusing on CASP-specific obligations under the European legal framework.
- Cybersecurity in AML/CTF+: Master cybersecurity unique to CASPs, including incident response, penetration testing, and managing IT vulnerabilities in crypto environments.
- Crypto Industry Focus: Explore risks unique to the cryptocurrency sector, such as honeypot, tokenisation, and other CASP-specific risk areas.
- Practical Application: Solve real-world case studies to apply advanced AML/CTF+ concepts in managing risks and responding to regulatory challenges.
Compliant with the new ESMA guidelines of 11 July 2025.
What Course Includes:
80 Visual Schemes 
14 Assignments 
84 Submodules of Reading Material 
35 CPD Credits 
Certificate of Completion 
5-6 weeks – Recommended Learning Timeline 
1695 €
Pay
848€ monthly
for
2 months
Pay
565€ monthly
for
3 months
Equip senior compliance professionals with CAPS, the highest-level AML certification for experts managing financial crime risks. Designed for MLROs, senior officers, Head and Board Members, it focuses on MiCA and industry-specific compliance. A structured, scalable, and cost-effective way to certify top-level AML professionals and strengthen regulatory leadership.
Program overview
Find out what you’ll learn in CAPS, Certified Anti-Money Laundering Principal Specialist for European Union Crypto-Asset Service Providers, how long it will last, and what qualifications you’ll gain after completing it.
The CAPS Certification Program for European Union CASPs is designed for professionals aiming to master anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorism financing (CTF), and other critical financial crime prevention strategies. This advanced program goes beyond intermediate knowledge, providing in-depth insights into AML/CTF+ compliance, regulatory frameworks, and risk management practices in the European Union crypto sector.
The program equips learners with the knowledge and skills to address complex compliance challenges, ensuring organisations uphold the highest standards of financial integrity.
The program is compliant with the ESMA’s guidelines for the criteria on the assessment of knowledge and competence under the Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA) of 11 July 2025.
This comprehensive certification program offers expertise in the following areas:
- Advanced Understanding of Financial Crime Risks. Explore the intricate mechanisms behind financial crimes, including money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing, and understand their global impact.
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies: Core principles of blockchain technology, types of cryptocurrencies, and their regulatory implications.
- European Union Regulatory Framework and Approach: Detailed insights into EU’s AML laws, CASP obligations under the EU legal framework, and the role of compliance officers.
- Risk Management: Advanced risk assessment techniques, identifying red flags, and practical strategies for mitigating ML/TF risks.
- Compliance Program Development: Building effective compliance systems, including KYC, transaction monitoring, and governance structures.
- Cybersecurity in AML/CTF+: Addressing IT risks, data privacy under GDPR, and leveraging technology for compliance.
- Reporting and Audits: Best practices for suspicious activity reporting, internal audits, and ensuring readiness for regulatory scrutiny.
- Consequences of Non-Compliance: Real-world case studies highlighting enforcement actions, penalties, and lessons learned.
The CAPS Certification Program combines advanced expertise with an engaging learning experience, featuring:
- Dynamic Video Lectures: Professionally created content to explain complex topics clearly.
- In-Depth Case Studies: Real-world examples to contextualise theoretical knowledge.
- Interactive Quizzes: Test and reinforce your understanding throughout the course.
- Customised Materials: Jurisdiction- and industry-specific guides for practical application.
- Learning Method: Online.
- Duration: 5-6 weeks (flexible, self-paced).
- Materials: Video lectures, detailed textual content, industry-specific case studies, and schemes.
- Final Assessment: Comprehensive exam with 60 questions, 90 minutes to complete.
- Exam passing threshold: 80%
Upon completing the CAPS Certification Program, you will receive the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Principal Specialist (CAPS) designation, recognised as one of the most advanced qualifications in the AML field.
- Globally Recognised Certification: Demonstrates your expertise in AML/CTF+ compliance and risk management.
- Regulatory Expectations: Your qualification becomes aligned with the expectations of local regulators.
- Career Advancement: Enhances your credentials, positioning you for senior roles in compliance, financial crime prevention, and regulatory affairs.
With the CAPS Certification, you’ll not only master advanced AML/CTF+ strategies but also solidify your position as a leader in the fight against financial crime.
The certificate you will receive and the official designation.
View a certificate
- Basic computer and internet skills.
- Knowledge of English at lest B2.
- Professional experience in the field at least 4 years.
- Higher education and other high-level professional qualifications.
Contact us to find whether you are eligible.
1
Introduction to Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing
Lectures 7 opinions
- Predicate offences for Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing,
- Proliferation Financing and Sanctions
- Understanding Money Laundering, Its Consequences and Its Impact
- Understanding Terrorist Financing, Its Consequences and Its Impact
- Understanding Proliferation Financing, Its Consequences and Its Impact
- International Sanctions: Importance and Why
- Highlights of the previous chapters
2
Introduction to blockchain
Lectures 5 opinions
- Historical Context
- Core Principles of Blockchain
- Challenges and Considerations
- Key Elements of Cryptocurrency Transactions
- Highlights of the previous chapters
3
Overview of various types of cryptocurrencies, including native assets, tokens, stablecoins, NFTs and CBDCs
Lectures 6 opinions
- Virtual Assets, Cryptocurrencies and Crypto-Assets
- Native Assets
- Tokens
- Stablecoins
- Central Bank Digital Currencies
- Highlights of the previous chapters
4
CASP AML/CTF+ Framework in European Union
Lectures 5 opinions
- EU-wide regulation development
- European Union Regulation Development
- CASP’s Obligations Under the EU framework
- AML/CO responsibilities
- Highlights of the previous chapters
5
CASP different services in Regulation Development
Lectures 10 opinions
- Virtual Currency Service
- Virtual Currency Wallet Service
- Virtual Currency Exchange Service
- Virtual Currency Transfer Service
- Tokenisation
- Over-The-Counter Desk
- Market Making
- Online Gaming
- Crypto ATM’s
- Highlights of the previous chapters
6
Compliance Program
Lectures 5 opinions
- Key elements of an Effective Compliance Program
- Roles and Responsibilities in Compliance
- Compliance Policies and Procedures
- Training and Awareness Programs
- Highlights of the previous chapters
7
CASP Risk Management,- Assessment and – Appetite
Lectures 6 opinions
- Risk Management, – Assessment, and – Appetite
- Risk-, Rule-Based Approach
- ML/TF+ Risk Identification
- AML/CTF+ Risk Scoring
- Examples of Risk Assessment Scenarios and Best Practices
- Highlights of the previous chapters
8
KYC, CDD, EDD, ODD, Transaction monitoring
Lectures 5 opinions
- KYC
- CDD, SDD, EDD
- ODD
- Transaction monitoring
- Highlights of the previous chapters
9
Cybersecurity Risks
Lectures 6 opinions
- Cybersecurity and AML/CTF+
- Incident Response
- Penetration Testing, Black-box, White-box Audits
- Key Aspects of IT Risks in Cryptocurrencies
- Automated technology and systems in AML/CTF+
- Highlights of the previous chapters
10
GDPR Requirements within AML/CTF+
Lectures 6 opinions
- Understanding GDPR and its Importance
- GDPR Compliance in AML/CTF Programs
- Data Subject Rights and AML/CTF+ Obligations
- Ensuring Data Privacy and Security in AML/CTF+ Operations
- Case Studies and Best Practices
- Highlights of the previous chapters
11
Suspicious Activity and/or Transaction
Lectures 5 opinions
- Investigating Suspicious Activity
- Identifying Suspicious Activity and/or Transaction
- Red Flag Indicators Related to Transactions, Transaction Patterns and Anonymity
- Red Flag Indicators About Senders or Recipients; In the Source of Funds or Wealth; Geographical Risks
- Highlights of the previous chapters
12
Reporting obligations
Lectures 5 opinions
- Principles of the tone from the top and information flow
- Reporting obligation from Employees to the AML Department
- Communication by Employees/MLRO on Towards to Customer
- Reporting From the AML Department to FIU
- General Reporting to the Management Board
- Highlights of the previous chapter
13
Audit
Lectures 4 opinions
- The importance of the AML/CTF/IS compliance function as a prerequisite function for the internal audit
- Blockchain Preparation Audit Programme
- Audit
- Highlights of the previous chapters
14
Consequences of Non-compliance with AML/CTF+ Regulations
Lectures 4 opinions
- Enforcement Actions and Penalties for AML/CTF+ Violations
- Utilisation of Non-Compliant Cryptocurrency Exchanges by Criminals for Money Laundering
- Case Studies – Penalties
- Highlights of the previous chapters
To continue training CAPS of another jurisdiction to upgrade your skills
Frequently
Asked
Questions
about CAPS for CASPs authorised under MiCA
Where does CAPS sit in the compliance staffing of a MiCA-authorised CASP?
Third and final level of the AML Certification Centre pathway. AML Foundations comes first, then CASS at €959, then the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Principal Specialist. It’s written for people who already run or deputise in an AML function at a crypto-asset service provider authorised under Regulation (EU) 2023/1114. If your working week is spent explaining a filing decision rather than learning what a CASP is, this is the right level.
Why take CAPS now that the MiCA transitional period has closed?
The Article 143(3) transitional regime expired across the EU on 1 July 2026. In its statement of 17 April 2026, ESMA said any entity serving EU clients without a MiCA licence is in breach of EU law and must stop offering those services, and that unauthorised firms had to have wind-down plans implemented by that date. Supervision has moved from reading applications to testing whether the AML function works in practice. CAPS is aimed at that second phase.
Is CAPS accredited, and does any EU regulator recognise it?
CAPS is CPD accredited and was built with practising AML specialists. It is not endorsed by ESMA, the EBA or any national competent authority, and no EU regulator formally recognises named private certifications for fit-and-proper purposes. What the EBA guidelines on AML/CFT compliance officers do require, and they have applied since 1 December 2022, is that the firm satisfies itself the officer holds the necessary AML/CFT skills and expertise. CAPS is evidence for that file — nothing more, and nothing less.
What do I need before I can enrol in the EU cohort?
Two things. • At least four years of professional experience in AML compliance or a related field. • A recognised AML certification such as CASS or an equivalent qualification, or other professional recognition. Click on the “Check eligibility” button to contact us. If you hold a certification issued outside the EU and aren’t sure whether it qualifies, ask before you book rather than after.
What does a completed CAPS add to a CASP’s training records?
A CPD-accredited Certified Anti-Money Laundering Principal Specialist certificate, plus one year of membership of the CPD institute. Both are dated and independently verifiable, which is what matters when a national competent authority asks how the firm satisfied itself about the competence of whoever runs its AML function. Regulation (EU) 2024/1624 applies from 10 July 2027 and raises the hierarchical standing expected of that role.
Can I enrol if I hold no prior AML certification?
No. The entry rules are firm, because the syllabus assumes you already know the mechanics and spends its time on judgement instead. If you haven’t got there yet, CASS is the step before this one at €959, and AML Foundations sits below that. Working the pathway in order takes longer. It also produces someone who can defend a decision to a supervisor, which is the whole point.
How long does CAPS take alongside a live MiCA compliance workload?
Five to six weeks. Delivery is online and self-paced, so you set the rhythm around whatever the firm is dealing with — an information request from your NCA, a client migration, an onboarding backlog. It is easier to spread across evenings and quieter weeks than to block out a fortnight you won’t get back.
What language is the EU cohort taught in?
English. MiCA has an authentic English text, and both ESMA and the EBA publish their supervisory briefings and guidelines in English, so the vocabulary used in the course is the vocabulary you will cite in a policy document or an authorisation file. There is no translation layer sitting between what you study and what you eventually file.
How is the CAPS exam run for candidates across the EU?
Online, so a candidate in Dublin sits the same paper as one in Vilnius and nobody travels. Sixty questions in total, mixing multiple choice, case-based scenarios and true/false items, with ninety minutes on the clock. The case scenarios are where the marks move. They are built around decisions an AML officer at an authorised CASP actually has to take under time pressure.
Why is the CAPS pass mark set at 80%?
Because a third-level certification that could be passed on a coin flip would be worth nothing to a compliance officer defending a staffing decision to a national competent authority. You need at least 80% across the sixty questions. That sits deliberately above the level most professional AML exams settle on, and the retake rules exist precisely because of it.
What happens if I do not pass the CAPS exam first time?
You get two further attempts. Each one opens fifteen days after the previous sitting, so there is a built-in gap for revision rather than an immediate retry. Retakes cost €75 each. You also receive feedback showing which sections the marks were lost in, so a second attempt is a targeted exercise rather than a rerun of the first.
Will the CAPS certificate travel with me between Member States?
Yes. You receive the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Principal Specialist certificate, which is recognised in the European Union and abroad. It isn’t tied to one national regime, because the syllabus is anchored on MiCA and the EU AML package, which apply the same way whether your CASP is authorised in Ireland, Malta or Estonia. A CASP passports its authorisation across the Union — its people move too.
How quickly can I put CAPS into a staffing file after the exam?
Straight away. Passing releases a digital certificate together with the official CAPS designation, so nothing waits on a printed document arriving before you can attach it to an internal competence record or to a submission going to your national competent authority. The designation is yours to use in a signature block and on a professional profile.
What does CAPS cost for the EU pathway?
CAPS for CASPs authorised under MiCA costs €1695 including VAT. One price across every Member State, and there’s no local surcharge for a candidate in Paris rather than Riga. The fee covers all course materials, the exam fee and issuance of the certificate. Retake sittings at €75 are the only possible extra, and only if you need them.
Are discounts available to public-sector AML staff in the EU?
Yes. Public sector employees qualify for a 20% discount on the programme fee, and there are usually other promotions running, so contact us to see what is open when you book. If you sit at a national competent authority or a financial intelligence unit rather than at a licensed firm, say so when you enquire, because it changes what you pay.
Can a MiCA-authorised CASP fund places for its AML team?
Yes, we accept organisational sponsorships. Write to [email protected] for bulk enrolments or business invoicing. Alumni now sit in more than 79 countries. If you operate across several Member States, consider booking the AML officer and the deputy together, so cover for the role does not depend on one person being available in the week a supervisor calls.
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