The ADLA Licensing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

What is an ADLA License?

An Authorised Dealer in Foreign Exchange with Limited Authority (ADLA) license is a critical requirement for businesses engaged in foreign currency exchange within South Africa. Whether handling cross-border transactions, currency transfers, or forex services, obtaining an ADLA license from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) ensures compliance with regulatory standards and enhances your credibility in the financial market. 

At Marc de Bruyn Attorneys, we specialize in navigating the complexities of the ADLA licensing process, ensuring that your business is positioned for success.

Here’s how we support you at every stage:

Our ADLA Licensing Process

1. Initial Assessment & Document Gathering

We begin by compiling all required documents as outlined in the ADLA Manual, ensuring they meet SARB’s stringent compliance standards. ✅ Regulatory compliant documentation is key to a smooth application process.

2. Application Form Completion

Accuracy is crucial—any errors can lead to delays or rejections. Our team meticulously completes the forms to ensure full compliance. ✍ Precise and timely application submissions help streamline the process.

3. Business Plan Review & Refinement

A well-structured business plan is essential for SARB approval. We conduct multiple rounds of review and refinement, ensuring your plan meets regulatory expectations. A strong business plan enhances your application’s success rate.

4. Final Review & Submission

Before submission, we conduct a comprehensive compliance check to ensure all documentation is accurate and complete. We manage the submission process to ensure a seamless experience.

5. Inspection Manual Preparation

Applicants must submit an Inspection Manual for review by the Financial Surveillance Department (Finsurv). This document details your operational and reporting capabilities. We help craft a thorough Inspection Manual to meet SARB’s requirements.

6. FICA Compliance Assistance

Meeting Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) requirements is crucial. We guide you in preparing key compliance documents, including:

  • Board Circulars outlining fiduciary responsibilities
  • GoAML authorization letter submission
  • Appointment of a Compliance Officer
  • Risk Management & Compliance Program (RMCP) templates
  • Customer Due Diligence (CDD) decision trees

🔐 We establish a strong compliance foundation to meet regulatory obligations.

7. Ongoing FICA Training & Assessments

We offer post-application training to ensure continued FICA compliance, including:

  • Interactive multiple-choice compliance questionnaires
  • Annual FICA assessments for staff training

🏅 Ongoing training helps maintain compliance and mitigate risks

8. Corporate Governance Framework (CGF) Development

A well-structured Corporate Governance Framework (CGF) ensures regulatory transparency and accountability.

We assist in developing:

  • Defined reporting structures between EXCO and the Board
  • Internal compliance committees following King IV principles

🏛 A robust governance framework enhances corporate compliance.

9. Post-Licensing Compliance Support

Once your ADLA license is issued, we provide ongoing regulatory support, periodic compliance reviews, and guidance on legislative updates.

🔄 We help you stay compliant beyond the application phase.

Partner with MDBlaw for Your ADLA Licensing Needs

Securing an ADLA license is a crucial step in establishing your foreign exchange business. With Marc de Bruyn Attorneys, you’ll have a team of regulatory and compliance experts guiding you every step of the way.

📩 Ready to start the ADLA licensing process? Contact us today to discuss how we can assist your business in securing an ADLA license and ensuring full regulatory compliance.

#ADLA #ForeignExchange #FICA #Compliance #SARB #FinancialServices #LegalExpertise #MarcDeBruynAttorneys
#RegulatoryCompliance #BusinessLicensing