Expert FCA Authorisation & Permission Support
Whether you're applying for authorisation, becoming directly authorised, submitting a Variation of Permission or dealing with a Change in Control, B-Compliant can help.
- 100% FCA application success rate for DFM and Article 3 firms
- Tailored guidance for your business model
- Dedicated consultant from planning through to FCA approval
Get Expert FCA Authorisation Support
Start your FCA authorisation journey with confidence.
Every B-Compliant service includes a dedicated, named consultant. Your single point of contact, from day one.
We Help With
FCA Applications
Applying for FCA authorisation for the first time.
Direct Authorisation
Moving from Appointed Representative status to becoming directly authorised.
Variation of Permission
Adding, changing or removing FCA permissions as your business evolves.
Change in Control
Support for acquisitions, sales and ownership changes requiring FCA approval.
Why firms choose B-Compliant
From initial planning to FCA approval, we work closely with firms to help avoid delays, confusion, and common application mistakes.
DFM & Article 3 applications failed
Every DFM and Article 3 firm authorisation application we've submitted has been approved.
Application Support
From initial planning through to FCA approval and follow-up questions.
More Than Applications
Support for Direct Authorisation, Variation of Permission and Change in Control requirements.
Regulatory Advice
Straight-talking support focused on helping firms achieve the right regulatory outcome.
How it works.
A clear, structured process designed to keep your FCA application moving.
Discovery call
We learn about your business, goals, and the permissions you need from the FCA.
Preparation
We help you build the documents, controls, and application needed for submission.
Submission
Your application is submitted to the FCA with ongoing support throughout the review process.
Ongoing Support
Once approved, authorisation is just the start, we can continue supporting your firm as you grow.
Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know about timelines, costs, requirements, and the FCA application process.
The FCA states that complete applications are typically reviewed within 6 months, although timings can vary depending on the complexity of the business and the quality of the submission. Delays are often caused by incomplete documents, insufficient detail, or avoidable FCA follow-up questions.
At B-Compliant, we help firms prepare stronger applications from the outset to reduce unnecessary delays wherever possible.
The total cost depends on the type of permissions your firm requires, the complexity of the application, and the level of support needed. Costs usually include FCA application fees alongside the work involved in preparing documents, frameworks, and supporting materials.
We provide clear, upfront pricing and flexible support tailored to your business and experience level.
The most common causes of delays include weak business plans, insufficient detail within application documents, missing information, poor Senior Management Function (SMF) documentation, and applications that do not clearly explain how the business will operate compliantly.
We proactively identify potential issues before submission and work closely with firms to prepare robust FCA-ready applications. To date, we have never had a client fail an FCA application after working with us.
We provide hands-on support throughout the entire FCA authorisation process, including application strategy, business plans, compliance frameworks, Senior Management Function (SMF) documentation, FCA application forms, SMF training and competency gap-fill support, and support responding to FCA follow-up questions.
Some firms want full end-to-end support, while others only need guidance in specific areas. Our approach is flexible and tailored around your needs.
The documents required will depend on the permissions your firm is applying for, but commonly include a business plan, compliance monitoring programme, financial forecasts, Senior Management Function (SMF) documentation, client-facing documentation (such as client agreements and terms of business), and Consumer Duty documentation.
We help firms understand exactly what is required and ensure documents are prepared to a standard the FCA expects.
The permissions your firm requires will depend on the regulated activities you intend to carry out. This could include investment advice, arranging deals, discretionary investment management, mortgage activities, consumer credit activities and other regulated services.
Meet The Team
You can rely on our experts to deliver dedicated, personable compliance support. Say hi and learn what we can do for you.
Let’s Get You Authorised
Practical, hands-on support throughout the FCA application process from experienced compliance professionals.