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AI Summary of Article 48c Minimum conditions for the authorisation of third-country branches

The new regulatory framework mandates that Member States require third-country undertakings to establish a branch within their jurisdiction prior to engagement in specified activities. This establishment demands prior authorisation, underpinned by comprehensive administrative agreements with the relevant third-country authorities. Applications for such authorisation must include a detailed programme of operations and fulfil stringent conditions, including anti-money laundering assessments.

Moreover, any authorisations granted by 10 January 2027 will remain valid, contingent upon compliance with specified minimum requirements. The EBA is tasked with monitoring cross-border operations and issuing guidelines by 10 July 2026 to clarify the authorisation process and information requirements.

Version status: Inserted | Document consolidation status: Updated to reflect all known changes
Version date: 9 July 2024 - onwards
Version 2 of 2

Article 48c Minimum conditions for the authorisation of third-country branches

1. Member States shall require, in accordance with Article 21c, that third-country undertakings establish a branch in their territory before commencing or continuing the activities referred to in Article 47(1). The establishment of a third-country branch shall be subject to prior authorisation in accordance with this Chapter.

2. Competent authorities shall endeavour to conclude administrative agreements or other arrangements with relevant third-country competent authorities before a third-country branch commences its activities in the relevant Member State. Such agreements shall be based on the model administrative arrangements developed by EBA in accordance with Article 33(5) of Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010. That requirement shall not apply where third-country branches are subject to stricter national requirements. Competent authorities shall submit information about any administrative agreements or other arrangements concluded with third-country competent authorities to EBA without delay.