The European Banking Authority (EBA) launched a public consultation on draft Guidelines on the authorisation of third-country branches (TCBs) under the Capital Requirements Directive (CRD), as part of the regulatory package implementing the EU’s new framework for TCBs. The draft aims to support harmonised market access and consistent application of the new regime across competent authorities. The Guidelines set out the information to be included in authorisation applications, how competent authorities should assess applications, and the templates, forms and process to be used. They are addressed to competent authorities and the third-country head undertakings submitting applications, and include a requirement for a non-opposition statement from the head undertaking’s third-country competent authority to support the safe and sound establishment of the TCB. Developed under Article 48c(8) of Directive 2013/36/EU, the draft also clarifies when information submitted in prior TCB authorisation procedures may be relied upon. The consultation is open until 3 February 2026. A public hearing will be held by conference call on 10 December 2025 (12:00 to 13:00 CET), with registration closing on 8 December 2025 at 16:00 CET, and responses will be published after the consultation closes unless confidentiality is requested.
European Banking Authority 2025-11-03
European Banking Authority launches consultation on Guidelines for authorising third-country branches under the Capital Requirements Directive
The European Banking Authority has initiated a public consultation on draft Guidelines for authorising third-country branches under the Capital Requirements Directive. The Guidelines aim to harmonize market access and ensure consistent application across competent authorities, detailing application requirements and processes. They also require a non-opposition statement from the third-country competent authority to support the safe establishment of branches.