How long does OFAC license processing take?

Typically 6-12 months. Complex cases can take longer. Simple humanitarian license requests may be faster.

What should I include in a license application?

Applicant info, parties, transaction description, purpose, justification, and regulatory citations. For crypto, include wallet addresses and transaction hashes.

How do I check my application status?

Contact OFAC's licensing division. Provide your application reference number. Do not contact about status before the acknowledgment period (2-4 weeks).

OFAC specific license application timeline

When you need OFAC authorization for a transaction that would otherwise be prohibited, you apply for a specific license. The process takes 6-12 months in most cases.

Typical timeline

What to include in the application

Stage	Timeline
Application submission	Day 0
Acknowledgment from OFAC	2-4 weeks
Review and questions (optional)	2-6 months
Decision	6-12 months (complex cases longer)
If approved: license issued	Within weeks of decision

Required: Applicant information, parties involved, transaction description, purpose and justification, why the transaction should be licensed, and relevant regulatory citations. For crypto: Wallet addresses, transaction hashes, blockchain network.

Do not proceed before approval: You cannot execute the prohibited transaction until OFAC issues the license. Proceeding before approval is a sanctions violation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does OFAC license processing take?: Typically 6-12 months. Complex cases can take longer. Simple humanitarian license requests may be faster.
What should I include in a license application?: Applicant info, parties, transaction description, purpose, justification, and regulatory citations. For crypto, include wallet addresses and transaction hashes.
Can I proceed with the transaction while waiting?: No. You cannot execute the prohibited transaction until OFAC issues the license. Proceeding is a violation.
How do I check my application status?: Contact OFAC's licensing division. Provide your application reference number. Do not contact about status before the acknowledgment period (2-4 weeks).