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SUP 13.1 Application and purpose

Application

SUP 13.1.1 G RP

This chapter applies to a UK firm, that is, a person whose head office is in the United Kingdom and which is entitled to carry on an activity in another EEA State subject to the conditions of a Single Market Directive. Such an entitlement is referred to in the Act as an EEA right and its exercise is referred to in the Handbook as passporting.1

SUP 13.1.2 G RP

This chapter also applies to a UK firm which wishes to establish a branch in, or provide cross border services into, Gibraltar. The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Gibraltar) Order 2001 provides that a UK firm is to be treated as having an entitlement corresponding to its EEA right, to establish a branch in, or provide cross border services into, Gibraltar under any of the Single Market Directives. So, references in this chapter to an EEA State or an EEA right include references to Gibraltar and the entitlement under the Gibraltar Order6respectively. 2

6
SUP 13.1.3 G RP

This chapter does not apply to:

  1. (1)

    a firm established in an EEA State other than the United Kingdom; passporting by such a firm in or into the United Kingdom is a matter for its Home State regulator although guidance is given in 4SUP 13A4 (Qualifying for authorisation under the Act);

  2. (2)

    other overseas firms (that is, overseas firms established outside the EEA); such firms are not entitled to passport into another EEA State and, where relevant, may need to obtain authorisation in each EEA State in which they carry on business;

  3. (3)

    any insurance activity by way of provision of services which is provided by an EEA firm participating in a community co-insurance operation otherwise than as leading insurer; article 26.2 of the Second Non-Life Directive provides that only the leading insurer in such an operation is required to complete any passporting formalities (see also article 11 of the Regulated Activities Order); or

  4. (4)

    the marketing of the units of a UCITS scheme by its management company in another EEA State under the UCITS Directive (see paragraph 20B of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act and COLL 12.4 (UCITS product passport)8).3

    87
SUP 13.1.3A G RP

9Other than the notification requirements in SUP 13.5.1AA R and SUP 13.5.2-A R and the related guidance in SUP 13.5.1B G, SUP 13.5.2A G and SUP 13.5.7 G, this chapter does not apply to a UK firm in relation to its exercise of an EEA right under the auction regulation to provide services or establish a branch in another EEA state. This is because a UK firm is not subject to the requirements in Schedule 3 to the Act in respect of its exercise of that EEA right.

SUP 13.1.4 G

Purpose

SUP 13.1.5 G RP

This chapter gives guidance on Schedule 3 to the Act for a UK firm which wishes to exercise its EEA right and establish a branch in, or provide cross border services into, another EEA State. That is, when a UK firm wishes to establish its first branch in, or provide cross border services for the first time into, a particular EEA State.

SUP 13.1.6 G RP

The chapter also explains how a UK firm which has already established a branch in, or is providing cross border services into, another EEA State, may change the details of its branch or of the cross border services it is providing: for example, where a UK firm wishes to establish additional branches in an EEA State in which it has already established a branch where this would result in a change to the details provided previously. Such changes are governed by the EEA Passport Rights Regulations.

SUP 13.2 Introduction

SUP 13.2.1 G RP

This chapter gives guidance to UK firms. In most cases UK firms will be authorised persons under the Act. However, under the Banking Consolidation Directive, a subsidiary of a firm which is a credit institution which meets the criteria set out in that Directive also has an EEA right. Such an unauthorised subsidiary is known as a financial institution. References in this chapter to a UK firm include a financial institution.

SUP 13.2.2 G RP

A UK firm should be aware that the guidance is the FSA's interpretation of the Single Market Directives, the Act and the legislation made under the Act. The guidance is not exhaustive and is not a substitute for firms consulting the legislation or taking their own legal advice in the United Kingdom and in the relevant EEA States.

SUP 13.2.3 G RP

In some circumstances, a UK firm that is carrying on business which is outside the scope of the Single Market Directives has a right under the Treaty to carry on that business. For example, for1 an insurer carrying on both direct insurance and reinsurance business, the authorisation7of reinsurance business 1is not covered by the Insurance Directives . The firm1may, however, have rights under the Treaty in respect of its reinsurance1 business. Such UK firms may wish to consult with the appropriate UK regulator7 on their particular circumstances (see SUP 13.12.2 G).

1 7 1 1 7
SUP 13.2.4 G RP

7In SUP 13 the "appropriate UK regulator" amounts to whichever of the FCA and the PRA is the competent authority for authorising the relevant UKfirm.

SUP 13.3 Establishing a branch in another EEA State

What constitutes a branch

SUP 13.3.1 G RP

Guidance on what constitutes a branch is given in SUP App 36. Note that if a UK MiFID investment firm is seeking to use a tied agent established in another EEA State, the rules in SUP 13 will apply as if that firm were seeking to establish a branch in that EEA State unless the firm has already established a branch in that EEA State (paragraph 20A of Schedule 3 to the Act).8

4 6

The conditions for establishing a branch

SUP 13.3.2 G RP

A UK firm other than a UK pure reinsurer9cannot establish a branch in another EEA State for the first time under an EEA right unless the conditions in paragraphs 19(2), (4) and (5) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act are satisfied. It is an offence for a UK firm which is not an authorised person to contravene this prohibition (paragraph 21 of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act). These conditions are that:

  1. (1)

    the UKfirm has given the appropriate UK regulator,20 in accordance with the appropriate UK regulator's20rules (see SUP 13.5.1 R), notice of its intention to establish a branch (known as a notice of intention8) which:8

    202088
    1. (a)

      identifies the activities which it seeks to carry on through the branch; and

    2. (b)

      includes such other information as may be specified by the appropriate UK regulator20 (see SUP 13.5.1 R);

      20
  2. (2)

    the appropriate UK regulator20 has given notice (known as a consent notice) to the Host State regulator;

    2010
  3. (2A)

    if the UK firm'sEEA right relates to providing collective portfolio management services, the FCA20 has provided to the Host State regulator:10

    20
    1. (a)

      confirmation that the firm has been authorised as a management company under the provisions of the UCITS Directive;10

    2. (b)

      a description of the scope of the firm's authorisation; and 10

    3. (c)

      details of any restriction on the types of EEA UCITS scheme that the firm is authorised to manage; and10

  4. (3)
    1. (a)

      if the UK firm's EEA right derives from the Insurance Mediation Directive one month has elapsed beginning on the date on which the UK firm received notice that the appropriate UK regulator20 had given a consent notice8 as described in SUP 13.3.6 G (1) (see SUP 13.3.2A G);4

      208
    2. (b)

      in any other case:4

      1. (i)

        the Host State regulator has notified the UK firm (or, where the UK firm is passporting under theInsurance Directives, the PRA20) of the applicable provisions or, in the case of a UK firm passporting under MiFID or the UCITS Directive,10 that the branch may be established8; or4

        20
      2. (ii)

        two months have elapsed beginning with the date on which the appropriate UK regulator20 gave the consent notice.41

        20
SUP 13.3.2A G RP

4If the UK firm is passporting under the Insurance Mediation Directive and the EEA State in which the UK firm is seeking to establish a branch has not notified the European Commission of its wish to be informed of the intention of persons to establish a branch in its territory in accordance with article 6(2) of that directive, SUP 13.3.2 G (2) and SUP 13.3.2 G (3) do not apply. Accordingly, the UK firm may establish the branch to which its notice of intention8 relates as soon as the conditions referred to in SUP 13.3.2 G (1) are satisfied. The list of EEA States that have notified the European Commission of their wish to be informed in accordance with article 6(2) of the Insurance Mediation Directive is published on the FCA's20 website at www.fca.org.uk.8

8 20 20
SUP 13.3.2B G RP

4An appointed representative appointed by a firm to carry on insurance mediation activity on its behalf may establish a branch in another EEA State under the Insurance Mediation Directive. In this case, the notice of intention8 in SUP 13.3.2 G (1) should be given to the appropriate UK regulator20 by the firm on behalf of the appointed representative.5

8 20
SUP 13.3.2C G RP

4An exempt professional firm which is included in the record of unauthorised persons carrying on insurance mediation activity maintained by the FCA20 under article 93 of the Regulated Activities Order may establish a branch in another EEA State under the Insurance Mediation Directive (see PROF 7.2).

20
SUP 13.3.2D G RP

8A tied agent appointed by a MiFID investment firm to carry on investment services and activities (and ancillary services where relevant) does not have its own passporting right to establish a branch in another EEA State. However, a MiFID investment firm remains free to appoint a tied agent to do business in another EEA State and where it does so, the tied agent will benefit from its passport.

9
8
SUP 13.3.4 G

[deleted]8

8
SUP 13.3.4A G

[deleted]8

8

Issue of a consent notice to the Host State regulator

SUP 13.3.5 G RP
  1. (1)

    8If the UK firm'sEEA right derives from the Banking Consolidation Directive or10MiFID8,10 the appropriate UK regulator20 will give the Host State regulator a consent notice within three months unless it has reason to doubt the adequacy of a UK firm's resources or its administrative structure.8 The Host State regulator then has a further two months to notify the applicable provisions (if any) and prepare for the supervision, as appropriate, of the UK firm, or in the case of a MiFID investment firm, to inform the UK firm that a branch can be established.8

    8820
  2. (1A)

    If the UK firm'sEEA right derives from the UCITS Directive, the FCA20 will give the Host State regulator a consent notice within two months unless it has reason to doubt the adequacy of the UK firm's resources or its administrative structure. The Host State regulator then has a further two months to prepare for the supervision of the UK firm.10

    20
  3. (2) 208
    1. (a)

      If the UK firm'sEEA right derives from the Insurance Directives, the PRA20 will give the Host State regulator a consent notice within three months unless it has reason to:8

      20
      1. (i)

        doubt the adequacy of the UK firm's resources or its administrative structure; or8

      2. (ii)

        question the reputation, qualifications or experience of the directors or managers of the UK firm or its proposed authorised agent;8

      in relation to the business the UK firm intends to conduct through the proposed branch. The Host State regulator then has a further two months to notify the applicable provisions (if any) and prepare for the supervision, as appropriate, of the UK firm.8

    2. (b)

      In assessing the matters in (2)(a), the PRA20 may, in particular, seek further information from the firm or require a report from a skilled person (see SUP 5 (skilled persons)).8

      20
    3. (c)

      If the PRA20 has required a financial recovery plan of a UK firm of the kind mentioned in paragraph 1 of article 38 of the Consolidated Life Directive or paragraph 1 of article 20a of the First Non-Life Directive, the PRA20 will not give a consent notice for so long as it considers that policyholders are threatened within the meaning of those provisions.8

      2020
    4. (d)

      If the UK firm'sEEA right derives from the Insurance Mediation Directive and SUP 13.3.2 G (2) applies, the appropriate UK regulator20 will give the Host State regulator a consent notice within one month of the date on which it received the UK firm'snotice of intention. In cases where SUP 13.3.2 G (2) does not apply (see SUP 13.3.2A G), the UK firm may establish a branch as soon as it satisfies the conditions referred to in SUP 13.3.2 G.8

      20
SUP 13.3.5A G RP

20Where the PRA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the FCA before deciding whether to give a consent notice, except where paragraph 19(7A) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act applies. Where the FCA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the PRA before deciding whether to give a consent notice in relation to a UK firm whose immediate group includes a PRA-authorised person.

SUP 13.3.6 G RP
  1. (1)

    If the appropriate UK regulator20 gives a consent notice, it will inform the UK firm in writing that it has done so.

    20
  2. (2)

    The consent notice will contain, among other matters, the requisite details or, 8if the firm is passporting under the Insurance Directives, the relevant EEA details8 (see SUP 13 Annex 18) provided by the UK firm in its notice of intention8 (see SUP 13.5 (Notices of intention)).

    8888
  3. (3)

    10Where a consent notice is given under the UCITS Directive, the FCA20 will at the same time:

    20
    1. (a)

      communicate to the Host State regulator details of the compensation scheme intended to protect investors; and

    2. (b)

      enclose the information described at SUP 13.3.2 G (2A).

SUP 13.3.7 G RP
  1. (1)

    If the appropriate UK regulator20 proposes to refuse to give a consent notice, then paragraph 19(8) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act requires the appropriate UK regulator20 to give the UK firm a warning notice.

    2020
  2. (2)

    If the appropriate UK regulator20 decides to refuse to give a consent notice, then paragraph 19(12) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act requires the appropriate UK regulator20 to give the UK firm a decision notice within three months8 of the date on which it received the UK firm'snotice of intention8(two months8 in the case of a UK firm which is a UCITS management company). The UK firm may refer the matter to the Tribunal.

    2020888
  3. (3)

    [deleted]20

    2072720
SUP 13.3.7A G RP

20For details of the FCA's procedures for the giving of warning notices or decision notices see DEPP 2 (Statutory notices and the allocation of decision making).

UCITS management companies: other information to be provided to the Host State

SUP 13.3.8 G RP

10A UK firm seeking to provide collective portfolio management services from a branch in another EEA State, is advised that it will need to refer to the rules of the competent authority of the UCITS Home State implementing article 20 of the UCITS Directive which will require it to submit to that competent authority information relating to its depositary agreement and certain delegation arrangements.

SUP 13.4 Providing cross border services into another EEA State

Where is the service provided?

SUP 13.4.1 G RP

Guidance on where a cross border service is provided is given in SUP App 36.41

6

The conditions for providing cross border services into another EEA State

SUP 13.4.2 G RP

A UK firm, other than a UK pure reinsurer,9 cannot start providing cross border services into another EEA State under an EEA right unless it satisfies the conditions in paragraphs 20(1) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act and, if it derives its EEA right from the Insurance Directives, paragraph 20(4B) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act. It is an offence for a UK firm which is not an authorised person to breach this prohibition (paragraph 21 of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act).The conditions are that:

  1. (1)

    the UK firm has given the appropriate UK regulator,20 in the way specified by appropriate UK regulator's20rules (see SUP 13.5.2 R), notice of its intention to provide cross border services (known as a notice of intention8) which:

    20208
    1. (a)

      identifies the activities which it seeks to carry on by way of provision of cross border services; and

    2. (b)

      includes such other information as may be specified by the appropriate UK regulator20 (see SUP 13.5.2 R); and

      20
  2. (2)

    if the UK firm is passporting under the Insurance Directives, the firm has received written notice from the PRA20 as described in SUP 13.4.6 G; or4

    20
  3. (3)

    if the UK firm is passporting under the Insurance Mediation Directive and the EEA State in which the UK firm is seeking to provide services has notified the European Commission of its wish to be informed of the intention of persons to provide cross border services in its territory in accordance with article 6(2) of that directive, one month has elapsed beginning with the date on which the UK firm received written notice from the appropriate UK regulator20 as described in SUP 13.4.5 G (paragraph 20 (3B)(c) of Schedule 3 to the Act).4

    20
SUP 13.4.2A G RP

4An appointed representative appointed by a firm to carry on insurance mediation activity on its behalf may provide cross border services in another EEA State under the Insurance Mediation Directive. In this case, the notice of intention8 in SUP 13.4.2 G (1) should be given to the appropriate UK regulator20 by the firm on behalf of the appointed representative5.

8 20
SUP 13.4.2B G RP

4An exempt professional firm which is included in the record of unauthorised persons carrying on insurance mediation activity maintained by the FCA20 under article 93 of the Regulated Activities Order may provide cross border services in another EEA State under the Insurance Mediation Directive (see PROF 7.2).

20
SUP 13.4.2C G RP

8A tied agent appointed by a MiFID investment firm to carry on investment services and activities (and ancillary services where relevant) does not have its own passporting right to provide cross border services in another EEA State. However, a MiFID investment firm remains free to appoint a tied agent to do business in another EEA State and where it does so, the tied agent will benefit from its passport.

SUP 13.4.2D G RP

8A MiFID investment firm that wishes to obtain a passport for the activity of operating an MTF should follow the procedures described in this chapter. A UK market operator that operates a recognised investment exchange, a recognised auction platform (pursuant to the RAP regulations, the definition of regulated market in the Act is read for these purposes as including a recognised auction platform)11 or an MTF and wishes to provide cross border services into another EEA State should follow the procedure described in REC 4.2B.

9
8
SUP 13.4.3 G

8[deleted]

8
SUP 13.4.3A G

8[deleted]

8

Issuing a consent notice or notifying the Host State regulator

SUP 13.4.4 G RP
8
  1. (1)

    If8 the UK firm'sEEA right derives from MiFID8, the Banking Consolidation Directive or the UCITS Directive, paragraph 20(3) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act requires the appropriate UK regulator20 to send a copy of the notice of intention8 to the Host State Regulator within one month8 of receipt.8A UK firm passporting under the Banking Consolidation Directive10 may start providing cross border services as soon as it satisfies the relevant conditions (see SUP 13.4.2 G).8

    882088810
  2. (2)
    1. (a)

      If8 the UK firm'sEEA right derives from theInsurance Directives, paragraph 20(3A) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act requires the PRA20, within one month8 of receiving the notice of intention8, to:

      82088
      1. (i)

        give notice in a specified form (known as a consent notice) to the Host State regulator; or

      2. (ii)

        give written notice to the UK firm of its refusal to give a consent notice and the reasons for that refusal.

    2. (b)

      The issue or refusal of a consent notice under paragraph 20(3A) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act is the consequence of a regulatory decision, and this consent notice (unlike the consent notice for establishment of a branch) is not a statutory notice as set out in section 395 of the Act. A UK firm that receives notice that the PRA20 refuses to give a consent notice may refer the matter to the Tribunal under paragraph 20(4A) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act.8

      720787
    3. (c)

      If the PRA20 has required of a UK firm a financial recovery plan of the kind mentioned in paragraph 1 of article 38 of the Consolidated Life Directive or paragraph 1 of article 20a of the First Non-Life Directive, the PRA20 will not give a consent notice for so long as it considers that policyholders' rights are threatened within the meaning of those provisions.8

      2020
  3. (2A) 8
    1. (a)

      If the UK firm'sEEA right derives from the Insurance Mediation Directive, and the EEA State in which the UK firm is seeking to provide services has notified the European Commission of its wish to be informed of the intention of persons to provide cross border services in its territory in accordance with article 6(2) of that directive, paragraph 20(3B)(a) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act requires the appropriate UK regulator20 to send a copy of the notice of intention to the Host State regulator within one month of receipt. Otherwise, the UK firm may start providing cross border services as soon as it satisfies the relevant conditions (see SUP 13.4.2 G).8

      20
    2. (b)

      The list of the EEA States that have notified the European Commission of their wish to be informed in accordance with article 6(2) of the Insurance Mediation Directive is published on the FCA's20 website at www.fca.org.uk20.8

      2020
  4. (2B)

    Where a consent notice is given under the UCITS Directive, the FCA20 will at the same time:10

    20
    1. (a)

      communicate to the Host State regulator details of the compensation scheme intended to protect investors; and10

    2. (b)

      provide to the Host State regulator:10

      1. (i)

        confirmation that the firm has been authorised as a management company under the provisions of the UCITS Directive;10

      2. (ii)

        a description of the scope of the firm's authorisation; and

      3. (iii)

        details of any restriction on the types of EEA UCITS scheme that the firm is authorised to manage.

SUP 13.4.4A G RP

20Where the PRA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the FCA before deciding whether to give a consent notice and where the FCA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the PRA before deciding whether to give a consent notice in relation to a UK firm whose immediate group includes a PRA-authorised person.

SUP 13.4.5 G RP

When the appropriate UK regulator20 sends a copy of a notice of intention8, or if it gives a consent notice to the Host State regulator, it must inform the UK firm in writing that it has done so (paragraphs 20 (3B)(b) and (4) of Schedule 3 to the Act).4

20 8

UCITS management companies: other information to be provided to the Host State

SUP 13.4.7 G RP

10A UK firm seeking to provide collective portfolio management services in another EEA State under the freedom to provide cross border services, is advised that it will need to refer to the rules of the competent authority of the UCITS Home State implementing article 20 of the UCITS Directive which will require it to submit to that competent authority information relating to its depositary agreement and certain delegation arrangements.

SUP 13.5 Notices of intention

Specified contents: notice of intention to establish a branch

SUP 13.5.1 R RP

A UK firm, other than a UK pure reinsurer,4 wishing to establish a branch in a particular EEA State for the first time under an EEA right other than under the auction regulation7 must submit a5notice of intention3in the form set out in SUP 13 Annex 1 R.5

5 3 5
  1. (1)

    5[deleted]5

  2. (2)

    5[deleted]5

SUP 13.5.1AA R RP

7A UK firm establishing a branch in a particular EEA state for the first time under the auction regulation must submit a notice of intention in the form set out in SUP 13 Annex 7R prior to its establishment of that branch or whenever possible thereafter.

Specified contents: notice of intention to provide cross border services

SUP 13.5.2 R RP

A UK firm wishing to provide cross border services into a particular EEA State for the first time under an EEA right other than under the auction regulation7 must submit a notice in the form set out in:5

3 5
  1. (1)

    SUP 13 Annex 2 R5if the UK firm is passporting under 3MiFID;5 or5

    3
  2. (1A)

    SUP 13 Annex 3 R if the UK firm is passporting under the Insurance Directives; or5

  3. (2)

    SUP 13 Annex 4 R5if the UK firm is passporting under the Banking Consolidation Directive; or5

    5
  4. (3)

    SUP 13 Annex 5 R5if the UK firm is passporting under the Insurance Mediation Directive

    5
  5. (4)

    SUP 13 Annex 6 R, if the UK firm is a management company passporting under the UCITS Directive.6

SUP 13.5.2-A R RP
  1. (1)

    7A UK firm wishing to provide a service into a particular EEA State for the first time under the auction regulation must inform the appropriate UK regulator18 of the information in (2) by email to emissionstrading@fca.org.uk18 prior to its provision of that service or whenever possible thereafter.

    1818
  2. (2)

    The information required by (1) is:

    1. (a)

      name of the firm and the firm reference number;

      18
    2. (b)

      EEA state in which the service is or will be provided; and

    3. (c)

      the proposed commencement date of the service or the date on which the service commenced.

SUP 13.5.2A G RP

4 SUP 13.5.2 R does not apply to UK pure reinsurers or a UK firm exercising an EEA right under the auction regulation7 as they have automatic passport rights on the basis of their Home State authorisation under Reinsurance Directive or the auction regulation. However, the information required by SUP 13.5.2-A R assists the FSA's supervision of a UK firm's provision of a service in another EEA state under the auction regulation.7

3

Method of submission of notices5

SUP 13.5.3 R RP
  1. (1)

    A UK firm, other than a credit union, must submit any notice under SUP 13.5.1 R (1), SUP 13.5.1A R or SUP 13.5.2 R online at www.fca.org.uk18 using the ONAsystem.5

    181835
    1. (a)

      5[deleted]5

    2. (b)

      5[deleted]5

  2. (2)

    [deleted]18

    51835
    1. (a)

      [deleted]5

      5
    2. (b)

      [deleted]5

      5
    3. (c)

      5[deleted]5

      3
    4. (d)

      5[deleted]5

      3
    5. (e)

      5[deleted]5

      333
    6. (f)

      5[deleted]5

  3. (3)

    Where a firm is obliged to submit a notice in accordance with (1), if the information technology systems fail and online submission is unavailable for 24 hours or more, until such time as facilities for online submission are restored, a firm must submit that notice in the way set out in SUP 15.7.4 R to SUP 15.7.9 G (Form and method of notification).5

    4518
  4. (4)

    5[deleted]5

SUP 13.5.4 G RP
3 5
  1. (1)

    If the information technology systems fail and online submission is unavailable for 24 hours or more, the appropriate UK regulator18 will endeavour to publish a notice on its website confirming that online submission is unavailable and that the alternative methods of submission set out in SUP 13.5.3 R (3) and SUP 15.7.4 R to SUP 15.7.9 G (Form and method of notification) should be used.5

    1818
  2. (2)

    Where SUP 13.5.3 R (3) applies to a firm, GEN 1.3.2 R (Emergency) does not apply.5

SUP 13.5.4A G

[deleted]5

5

Unregulated activities

SUP 13.5.5 G RP

A notice of intention3 (other than one to establish a branch or provide services in another EEA state under the auction regulation)7 may include activities within the scope of the relevant Single Market Directive which are not regulated activities (paragraphs 19(3) and 20(2) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act), although in the case of a MiFID investment firm a notice of intention may only include ancillary services which are to be carried on with one or more investment services and activities (paragraphs 19(5B) and 20(2A) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act)3. Regulation 19 of the EEA Passport Rights Regulations states that where a UK firm is able to carry on such an unregulated activity in the EEA State in question without contravening any law of the United Kingdom (or any part of the United Kingdom) the UK firm is treated, for the purposes of the exercise of its EEA right, as being authorised to carry on that activity.1

3

Notifications to more than one EEA State

SUP 13.5.7 G RP

If a UK firm wishes to establish branches in, or provide cross border services into, more than one EEA State, a single notification may be provided but the relevant information3 for each EEA State should be clearly identifiable.

3

SUP 13.6 Changes to branches

SUP 13.6.1 G RP

Where a UK firm is exercising an EEA right, other than under the Insurance Mediation Directive (see SUP 13.6.9A G) or the Reinsurance Directive (see SUP 13.6.9B R)8, and has established a branch in another EEA State, any changes to the details of the branch are governed by the EEA Passport Rights Regulations. References to regulations in this section are to the EEA Passport Rights Regulations. A UK firm which is not an authorised person should note that, under regulation 18, contravention of the prohibition imposed by regulation 11(1), 13(1) or 15(1) is an offence. It is a defence, however, for the UK firm to show that it took all reasonable precautions and exercised due diligence to avoid committing the offence.5

SUP 13.6.2 G RP

UK firms should note that if a branch in another EEA State ceases to provide services, this may represent a change in requisite details or, if the firm is passporting under the Insurance Directives, the relevant EEA details or relevant UK details7.

7
SUP 13.6.3 G RP

UK firms should also note that changes to the details of branches may lead to changes to the applicable provisions to which the UK firm is subject. These changes should be communicated to the UK firm either by the Host State regulator, or, if the firm is passporting under Insurance Directives, via the PRA17.

17

Firms passporting under 7the Banking Consolidation Directive and the UCITS Directive.

SUP 13.6.4 G RP

If a UK firm has exercised an EEA right, under the Banking Consolidation Directive or the UCITS Directive, and established a branch in another EEA State, regulation 11(1) states that the UK firm must not make a change in the requisite details of the branch (see SUP 13 Annex 1), unless it has satisfied the requirements of regulation 11(2), or, where the change arises from circumstances beyond the UK firm's control, regulation 11(3) (see SUP 13.6.10 G).4

7
SUP 13.6.5 G RP

Where the change arises from circumstances within the control of the UK firm, the requirements in regulation 11(2) are that:

  1. (1)

    the UK firm has given notice to the appropriate UK regulator17 and to the Host State regulator stating the details of the proposed change;

    17
  2. (2)

    the appropriate UK regulator17 has given the Host State regulator a notice informing it of the details of the change; and

    17
  3. (3)

    either the Host State regulator has informed the UK firm that it may make the change, or the period of one month7 beginning with the day on which the UK firm gave the Host State regulator the notice in (1) has elapsed.

    7

7Firms passporting under MiFID

SUP 13.6.5A G RP

7If a UK firm has exercised an EEA right to establish a branch under MiFID, it must not make a change in the requisite details of the branch (see SUP 13 Annex 1), use, for the first time, a tied agent established in the EEA State in which the branch is established, or cease to use a tied agent established in the EEA State in which the branch is established, unless it has satisfied the requirements of regulation 11A(2) (see SUP 13.6.5B G).

SUP 13.6.5B G RP

7The requirements of regulation 11A(2) are that:

  1. (1)

    the UK firm has given a notice to the appropriate UK regulator17 stating the details of the proposed change; and

    17
  2. (2)

    the period of one month beginning with the day on which the UK firm gave the notice has elapsed.

Firms passporting under the Insurance Mediation Directive5

SUP 13.6.9A G RP

5A UK firm exercising its EEA right under the Insurance Mediation Directive to establish a branch in another EEA State is not required to supply a change to the details of branches notice 7.

7 8

Changes arising from circumstances beyond the control of a UK firm

SUP 13.6.10 G RP
  1. (1)

    If the change arises from circumstances beyond the UK firm's control, the UK firm:

    17
    1. (a)

      is required by regulation 11(3) or regulation 13(3) to give a notice to the appropriate UK regulator17 and to the Host State regulator stating the details of the change as soon as reasonably practicable;

      17
    2. (b)

      may, if it is passporting under the Insurance Directives, make a change to its relevant UK details7 under regulation 15(1) if it has, as soon as practicable (whether before or after the change), given notice to the PRA17 stating the details of the change.

      717
  2. (2)

    The appropriate UK regulator17 believes that for a change to arise from circumstances beyond the control of a UK firm, the circumstances should be outside the control of the firm7 as a whole and not just the branch7 in the EEA State. 1

    1777
  3. (3)

    Neither this guidance nor that set out at SUP 13.6.4 G or SUP 13.6.5 G is applicable to MiFID investment firms.7

The process

SUP 13.6.11 G RP

When the appropriate UK regulator17 receives a notice from a UK firm other than a MiFID investment firm7(see SUP 13.6.5 G (1) and SUP 13.6.7 G (1)) or a pure reinsurer (see SUP 13.6.9B R) 8it is required by regulations 11(4) and 13(4) to either refuse, or consent to the change within a period of one month7 from the day on which it received the notice.

17 7
SUP 13.6.12 G RP

If the appropriate UK regulator17 consents to the change, then under regulations 11(5) and 13(5) it will:

17
  1. (1)

    give a notice to the Host State regulator informing it of the details of the change; and

  2. (2)

    inform the UK firm that it has given the notice, stating the date on which it did so.

SUP 13.6.12A G RP

17Where the PRA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the FCA before deciding whether to give consent to a change (or proposed change) and where the FCA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the PRA before deciding whether to give consent in relation to a UK firm whose immediate group includes a PRA-authorised person.

SUP 13.6.15 G RP

If the appropriate UK regulator17 refuses to consent to a change, then under regulations 11(6) and 13(6):

17
  1. (1)

    the appropriate UK regulator17 will give notice of the refusal to the UK firm, stating its reasons and giving an indication of the UK firm's right to refer the matter to the Tribunal and the procedures on such a reference; and

    17
  2. (2)

    the UK firm may refer the matter to the Tribunal.

    62
SUP 13.6.16 G RP

7Standard forms are17 available from the FCA and PRA authorisations teams17 (see SUP 13.12 (Sources of further information)) to give the notices to the appropriate UK regulator17 described in SUP 13.6.5 G (1), SUP 13.6.5B G, SUP 13.6.7 G (1), SUP 13.6.8 G and SUP 13.6.10 G (1).

17 17 17

7The process: MiFID investment firms

SUP 13.6.17 G RP

7When the appropriate UK regulator17 receives a notice from a UK MiFID investment firm (see SUP 13.6.5BG (1)), it is required by regulation 11A(3) to inform the relevant Host State regulator of the proposed change as soon as reasonably practicable. The firm in question may make the change once the period of one month beginning with the day on which it gave notice has elapsed.

17

SUP 13.7 Changes to cross border services

SUP 13.7.1 G RP

Where a UK firm is exercising an EEA right under the UCITS Directive, MiFID or the5Insurance Directives and is providing cross border services into another EEA State, any changes to the details of the services are governed by the EEA Passport Rights Regulations. References to regulations in this section are to the EEA Passport Rights Regulations. A UK firm which is not an authorised person should note that contravention of the prohibition imposed by regulation 12(1), 12A(1)5 or 16(1) is an offence. It is a defence, however, for the UK firm to show that it took all reasonable precautions and exercised due diligence to avoid committing the offence.3

5
SUP 13.7.2 G RP

UK firms should also note that changes to the details of cross border services may lead to changes to the applicable provisions to which the UK firm is subject.

Firms passporting under5 the UCITS Directive

SUP 13.7.3 G RP

If a UK firm is passporting under the UCITS Directive, regulation 12(1) states that the UK firm must not make a change in its programme of operations, or the activities to be carried on under its EEA right, unless the relevant requirements in regulation 12(2) have been complied with. These requirements are:

5
  1. (1)

    the UK firm has given a notice to the FCA15 and to the Host State regulator stating the details of the proposed change; or

    15
  2. (2)

    if the change arises as a result of circumstances beyond the UK firm's control, the UK firm has as soon as practicable (whether before or after the change) given a notice to the FCA15 and to the Host State regulator, stating the details of the change.2

    15

Standard forms are15 available from the FCA authorisations team 15(see SUP 13.12 (Sources of further information)) to give the notices to the FCA referred to in15SUP 13.7.3 G (1) and SUP 13.7.3A G.5

15 15 15

5Firms passporting under MiFID

SUP 13.7.3A G RP

5If a UK firm is providing cross border services in a particular EEA State in exercise of an EEA right deriving from MiFID, the UK firm must comply with the requirements of regulation 12A(2) before it makes a change to its programme of operations, including:

  1. (1)

    changing the activities to be carried on in exercise that EEA right;

  2. (2)

    using, for the first time, any tied agent to provide services in the territory of that EEA State; or

  3. (3)

    ceasing to use any tied agent to provide services in the territory of that EEA State.

SUP 13.7.3B G RP

5The requirements of regulation 12A(2) are that:

  1. (1)

    the UK firm has given notice to the appropriate UK regulator15 stating the details of the proposed change; and

    15
  2. (2)

    the period of one month beginning with the day on which the UK firm gave the notice mentioned in (1) has elapsed.

SUP 13.7.6A G RP

5For further details on giving the notices to the appropriate UK regulator, as described in SUP 13.7.3 G (1), SUP 13.7.3A G, SUP 13.7.3B G, SUP 13.7.5 G (1)and SUP 13.7.6 G,15UK firms may wish to use the standard electronic15 form available from the FCA and PRA authorisation teams 15(see SUP 13.12 (Sources of further information)).

15 15 5 15 15
SUP 13.7.7A G

15Where the PRA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the FCA before deciding whether to give consent to a change (or proposed change) and where the FCA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the PRA before deciding whether to give consent in relation to a UK firm whose immediate group includes a PRA-authorised person.

Firms passporting under the Banking Consolidation Directive and Insurance Mediation Directive3

SUP 13.7.11 G RP

A UK firm providing cross border services under the Banking Consolidation Directive or Insurance Mediation Directive is not required to supply a change to the details of cross border services notice5.3

5 6

Liaison between regulators15

SUP 13.7.13A G RP

15Where the PRA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the FCA before deciding whether to give consent to a change (or proposed change) and where the FCA is the appropriate UK regulator, it will consult the PRA before deciding whether to give consent in relation to a UK firm whose immediate group includes a PRA-authorised person.

SUP 13.8 Changes of details: provision of notices to the 16appropriate UK regulator16

SUP 13.8.1 R RP
  1. (1)

    Where a firm is required to submit a4 notice of a change to a branch referred to in 2SUP 13.6.5 G (1), SUP 13.6.5BG (1), 2SUP 13.6.7 G (1), SUP 13.6.8 G2, SUP 13.6.9B R3 and SUP 13.6.10 G (1)or4 a notice of a change to cross border services referred to in2SUP 13.7.3 G (1), SUP 13.7.3AG (1), 2SUP 13.7.5 G (1) and SUP 13.7.6 G2it must complete and submit that notice in accordance with the procedures set out in SUP 13.5 for notifying the establishing of a branch or the provision of cross border services.4

    42224
    1. (a)

      4[deleted]4

    2. (b)

      4[deleted]4

  2. (2)

    [deleted]4

    24
    1. (a)

      4[deleted]4

    2. (b)

      4[deleted]4

    3. (c)

      4[deleted]4

      2
    4. (d)

      4[deleted]4

      2
    5. (e)

      4[deleted]4

      22
    6. (f)

      4[deleted]4

  3. (3)

    [deleted]4

    24
  4. (4)

    [deleted]4

    4
SUP 13.8.1A G RP

4The effect of SUP 13.8.1 R (1) is that a firm should submit any form, notice or application under SUP 13.8.1 R (1) in the following ways:

  1. (1)

    A UK firm, other than a credit union, should submit it online at www.fca.org.uk16 using the ONAsystem.

    1616
  2. (2)

    If the information technology systems fail and online submission is unavailable for 24 hours or more, until such time as facilities for online submission are restored, a firm should submit it in the way set out in SUP 13.5.3 R (3) and SUP 15.7.4 R to SUP 15.7.9 G (Form and method of notification). GEN 1.3.2 R (Emergency) does not apply in these circumstances.

    16
  3. (3)

    If the information technology systems fail and online submission is unavailable for 24 hours or more, the appropriate UK regulator16 will endeavour to publish a notice on its website confirming that online submission is unavailable and that the alternative methods of submission should be used.

    1616
  4. (4)

    [deleted]16

    16
SUP 13.8.2 G RP

UK firms passporting under the Banking Consolidation Directive or the Insurance Directives may be required to submit the change to details notice2 in the language of the Host State as well as in English.

2 2

SUP 13.10 Applicable provisions

SUP 13.10.1 G RP

UK firms are reminded that conduct of business rules, and other rules made for the general good, may apply to business carried on in the Host State by a UK firm. These are known in the Act as the applicable provisions (paragraph 19(13) of Part III of Schedule 3 to the Act).

SUP 13.10.3 G RP

These Host State provisions often have requirements about the soliciting of business, for example, advertising and cold-calling rules. A UK firm should ensure it is familiar with, and acts in compliance with, the relevant requirements of its Host State regulator.

SUP 13.11 Record keeping

SUP 13.11.1 R RP
  1. (1)

    A UK firm which is exercising an EEA right must make and retain a record of:

    1. (a)

      the services or activities it carries on from a branch in, or provides cross-border into, another EEA State under that EEA right; and

    2. (b)

      the details relating to those services or activities (as set out in SUP 13.6 and SUP 13.7)1.

      11
  2. (2)

    The record in (1) must be kept for five years (for firms passporting under MiFID) or 1three years (for other firms)1from the earlier of the date on which:

    1. (a)

      it was superseded by a more up-to-date record; or

    2. (b)

      the UK firm ceased to have a branch in, or carry on cross border services into, any EEA State under an EEA right.

SUP 13.11.2 G RP

The record in SUP 13.11.1 R need not relate to the level of business carried on. A UK firm may comply with SUP 13.11.1 R by, for example, keeping copies of all notices of intention and change to details notices1.

1
SUP 13.11.3 G RP

A UK firm should monitor the business carried on under an EEA right to ensure that any changes to details are notified as required by SUP 13.6 (Changes to branches) and 1SUP 13.7 (Changes to cross border services).

1

SUP 13.12 Sources of further information

SUP 13.12.1 G RP
  1. (1)

    Given the complexity of issues raised by passporting, UK firms are advised to consult legislation and also to obtain legal advice at earliest opportunity. Firms are encouraged to contact their usual supervisory contact at the appropriate UK regulator5 to discuss their proposals. However, a UK firm which is seeking guidance on procedural or notification issues relating to passporting should contact the FCA and PRA authorisations teams, as and where appropriate.5

    55
  2. (2)

    An applicant for Part 4A permission5 which is submitting a notice of intention3 with its application for such permission should contact the FCA and PRA authorisations teams, as and where appropriate5.1

    5323252
SUP 13.12.2 G RP

To contact the FCA and/or PRA authorisations teams, please see the details provided on that regulator's website.5

5 3 4

SUP 13 Annex 1 Passporting: Notification of intention to establish a branch in another EEA state4

R

This annex consists of only one or more forms. Forms can be completed online now by visiting: http://www.fsa.gov.uk/Pages/doing/index.shtmlThe forms are also to be found through the following address:

Passporting: Notification of intention to establish a branch in another EEA state -SUP 13 Annex 15

SUP 13 Annex 5 Passporting: Insurance Mediation Directive

R

This annex consists of only one or more forms. Forms can be completed online now by http://www.fsa.gov.uk/Pages/doing/index.shtml

The forms are also to be found through the following address:

Passporting: Insurance Mediation Directive - SUP 13 Annex 5

SUP 13 Annex 7 Passporting: Emissions Trading. Notice of intention from a UK firm to exercise the right of establishment in another EEA Member State

R

This annex consists of only one or more forms. Forms can be completed online now by visiting http://www.fca.org.uk/firms/systems-reporting/ona

The forms are also to be found through the following address:

Passporting: Emissions Trading. Notice of intention from a UK firm to exercise the right of establishment in another EEA Member State - SUP 13 Annex 71