In-scope unauthorised alternative investment funds (AIFs)

  1. 1

    Step 1: Check if the regime applies

    Decide whether the unauthorised AIF, whether existing or new, is in scope of the SDR regime under the rules in ESG 3.

    Please note, if an existing unauthorised AIF has a listing of its shares, consider whether any change that may be made to the unauthorised AIF’s published investment policy is a ‘material change’ which would need FCA approval in line with UKLR 11.4.14R.

  2. 2

    Step 2: We review your authorisation

    If applying as part of a new firm authorisation, our wholesale authorisations team will consider your application. 

    Find out more about getting authorised as an AIFM

    Please note, if sustainability factors are relevant to your firm's business model and product offerings, we expect you to explain clearly how you’ll use labels when you describe your business model in your application.

  3. 3

    Step 3: Notify us and download the label

    The AIFM should complete the Connect form to notify the FCA.

    Complete 1 form per label.

    You do not need to pay a fee. 

    Log in to Connect with your firm’s existing registration details. Then go to the ‘Firm Notifications’ section on Connect.

    You need to provide:

    • Product Reference Number (PRN) for your fund.
    • Which investment label you wish to use.
    • Start date for when you want to use the label.

    Once you’ve notified us, download the label from Connect.

  4. 4

    Step 4: Display the label

    Display the label and publish the associated consumer-facing disclosure as required under our rules.