AML package
Also called EU AML package, single EU rulebook on AML
The EU AML package is the set of laws that rebuilds Europe's anti-money laundering framework. It has three main parts: the AML Regulation, a single rulebook for firms; the sixth AML Directive, for national supervisors and FIUs; and the Regulation creating AMLA, the new EU authority. All three were published on 19 June 2024.
How it works
The AMLR replaces most national AML laws with directly applicable rules on due diligence, beneficial ownership, internal controls and reporting, applying from 10 July 2027. AMLD6 sets rules for member states on supervisors, FIUs, beneficial ownership registers and bank account registers. The AMLA Regulation creates the Frankfurt-based authority, which writes technical standards, coordinates FIUs and will directly supervise selected high-risk cross-border financial firms from 2028.
The package matters because firms operating across the EU move from 27 sets of national rules to one rulebook. Compliance teams are mapping policies to the AMLR and preparing for AMLA standards on due diligence and reporting. Large cross-border groups also face selection for direct EU supervision. National supervisors keep oversight of most firms.
The rules
Sets a single directly applicable rulebook on customer due diligence, beneficial ownership, internal controls, reporting and limits on large cash payments.
Credit and financial institutions and other obliged entities in the EUCovers national supervisors, FIU powers, beneficial ownership and bank account registers, and repeals Directive (EU) 2015/849 from 10 July 2027.
EU member states, supervisors and FIUsCreates AMLA in Frankfurt to set standards, coordinate FIUs and directly supervise selected high-risk cross-border financial entities.
AMLA, national supervisors and selected obliged entitiesCommon questions
When does the AMLR apply?
Most of the AMLR applies from 10 July 2027. Some provisions, such as those for certain football agents and clubs, apply later. Until then, national laws transposing the fourth and fifth AML Directives remain in force.
Is AMLD6 the same as the criminal law directive?
No, although the label is used for both. Directive (EU) 2018/1673 on combating money laundering by criminal law is sometimes called AMLD6. In the 2024 package, AMLD6 refers to Directive (EU) 2024/1640 on national AML mechanisms.
When will AMLA supervise firms directly?
AMLA will select high-risk credit and financial institutions or groups active in at least six member states, normally capped at 40. The first selection starts by 1 July 2027, and direct supervision begins six months after the list is published. Other firms stay with national supervisors.
Does the package cap cash payments?
Yes. The AMLR sets an EU-wide limit of €10,000 on cash payments for goods and services by traders, from 10 July 2027. Member states can set lower limits.
