Bull Bitcoin has obtained a MiCA license in France, clearing the way for European Union users to access its Bitcoin exchange and payment services without interruption or functional restrictions, founder Francis Pouliot announced on X on June 23, 2026.
The Montreal-founded company, established in 2013, completed nearly three years of self-financed effort to enter the European market. Pouliot emphasized that the licensing win did not require operational compromise on the company’s core principles.
“We are particularly excited to have obtained our MICA license without needing to compromise on our cypherpunk approach to self-custody and privacy,” Pouliot said. “All features of our website and wallet will remain exactly the same as they have been for the first half of 2026, with no additional burden or restrictions imposed on our users.”
Non-Custodial Model Survives Compliance
Bull Bitcoin operates as a Bitcoin-only, non-custodial exchange where users supply their own wallet address before purchase, with Bitcoin sent directly to customer control. The company passed required PASSI and DORA cybersecurity audits without outsourcing core Bitcoin infrastructure to third-party hosted providers.
The licensing process was funded entirely internally, with no external investors or lenders involved. Pouliot characterized the achievement as validation of a regulatory pathway others have struggled to navigate.
“We have proven that it is possible to meet the highest requirements of regulatory compliance without becoming overzealous,” he said. “That was a huge win.”
Expanding European Footprint
Bull Bitcoin’s service suite includes Bitcoin bill payments for rent, utilities, and real estate, alongside support for Lightning Network, Liquid, and Payjoin privacy tools. The company launched BULL Wallet, a global open-source privacy-first mobile app for iOS and Android, in October 2025. The wallet features Payjoin support, Lightning and Liquid compatibility, and collects no user data or push notifications.
Many EU crypto providers have faced pressure to exit or alter operations under tightening MiCA rules. Bull Bitcoin’s license positions it as an exception among platforms seeking to maintain privacy-centric features under European regulation.
Pouliot outlined broader ambitions for the company. “Having secured a long-term foothold in Europe, our ambition is global domination and setting a new standard on how to build the infrastructure Bitcoin deserves,” he said.
