The European Banking Authority (EBA) is an independent authority of the European Union responsible for ensuring effective and consistent regulation and supervision of the banking sector across all EU member states. Established in 2011, the EBA’s main goal is to maintain financial stability within the EU and protect depositors, investors and consumers by promoting a single, integrated set of rules for financial institutions operating within the internal market.
In the context of Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance, the EBA plays a key role by developing technical standards, regulatory guidelines and best practices that financial institutions must follow. The EBA provides detailed guidance on Customer Due Diligence (CDD), transaction monitoring, risk-based approaches and reporting obligations, helping harmonize how AML/CFT regulations are applied across different EU jurisdictions.
The EBA also monitors risks and vulnerabilities within the EU banking sector, conducts regular stress tests and fosters cooperation among national supervisory authorities to ensure a consistent and coordinated approach to financial supervision. Through its work, the EBA supports the integrity, efficiency and orderly functioning of the EU’s banking system.