- Google is moving several crypto-related ad certification applications directly into Google Ads accounts from May 2026.
- The update changes the application process, but crypto advertisers still need to meet Google’s certification, product and local compliance rules.
Google is making a procedural change to how crypto advertisers apply for certain advertising certifications, bringing the process directly into Google Ads accounts.
As The Query Post reported, the change affects advertisers applying for certification in several crypto and financial product categories.
From May 2026, eligible advertisers will apply from inside their Google Ads account instead of using the Google Ads Help Center. Google says existing certifications and pending applications will not be affected.
Crypto exchanges and wallets are among the affected categories
The updated process applies to certification applications for cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets, cryptocurrency hardware wallets, cryptocurrency coin trusts and complex speculative financial products.
For crypto companies that are already allowed to advertise under Google’s rules, the change should make the certification process more closely connected to account management and campaign setup.
However, the update does not change the underlying policy. Google still requires restricted crypto advertisers to meet local legal requirements and complete the relevant certification before running ads in approved markets.
Google is not opening the door to all crypto ads
The change is important for regulated crypto advertisers, but it should not be read as a broader reopening of crypto ads on Google.
Google’s policy continues to block several types of crypto-related promotions, including ads for initial coin offerings, DeFi trading protocols and promotions for the purchase, sale or trade of cryptocurrencies or related products where they fall outside the allowed categories.
The company also restricts destinations that aggregate or compare crypto issuers or related products. That includes certain crypto trading signals, investment advice pages, aggregators, affiliate sites and broker review pages.
What the update means for crypto advertisers
For approved crypto businesses, the main takeaway is operational. Certification applications will move into Google Ads, but the burden of compliance remains the same.
Advertisers still need to confirm that their product category is eligible, that their target market is allowed and that their landing pages meet Google’s crypto advertising rules.
For the wider crypto marketing industry, the message is clear: Google is making the certification process cleaner, not less restrictive.
