Costa Rica Gambling License

Send Request

Launch Your Gambling Business Legally in Costa Rica

Costa Rica remains a highly attractive jurisdiction for online gambling operators in 2026. While the country does not issue formal “gaming licenses” like Malta or Curacao, international operators can legally operate through a local company (SRL or SA) combined with a Data Processing License (Licencia de Procesamiento de Datos). This setup allows companies to offer online gaming, poker, casinos, sports betting, and lottery services to international clients while remaining compliant with local regulations.

Costa Rica’s regulatory environment offers a unique combination of flexibility, low administrative barriers, and international credibility, making it an ideal starting point for operators seeking global expansion.

This guide covers: license types, costs, timelines, legal requirements, banking options, compliance, target audience, risks, and practical tips for 2026.

Why Choose Costa Rica for Gambling Licensing?

Operators choose Costa Rica because of:

  • Flexible corporate structures: SRL (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada) or SA (Sociedad Anónima) allow streamlined governance.
  • No strict minimum capital requirements: Startups can enter the market with modest budgets.
  • Fast incorporation: Company registration can be completed in 2–4 weeks.
  • Operational freedom: The jurisdiction allows targeting international markets without extensive local gaming restrictions.
  • Banking access: International bank accounts can be opened for operational transactions, though due diligence applies.
  • Tax advantages: Costa Rica does not impose specific gaming taxes for international operations, reducing operational costs.

Costa Rica is particularly suitable for startups, e-commerce operators, software providers, and fintech‑adjacent businesses exploring international gambling opportunities.

Types of Gambling Licenses in Costa Rica

While Costa Rica lacks a formal iGaming license comparable to EU standards, operators typically rely on two main types of authorizations:

1. Type A License (Data Processing License)

  • Designed for online gambling targeting international clients.
  • Requires local company formation (SRL or SA).
  • No government-mandated minimum capital.
  • Provides legal protection for processing gambling-related data and conducting gaming operations abroad.

2. Type B License (Limited/Local Games License)

  • Intended for land-based or restricted online games.
  • Suitable for limited operations within Costa Rica or specific licensed sectors.
  • Useful for small-scale lottery, sweepstakes, or controlled gaming.

Note: Type A/B licenses do not provide EU or US recognition, but they grant operational legitimacy and legal protection internationally.

Costa Rica Gambling License Registration Process

Step 1 – Form a Local Company

  • Most operators create an SRL (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada) or SA (Sociedad Anónima).
  • Minimum of two directors or shareholders required.
  • Notarized company documents and registered office address are mandatory.

Step 2 – Apply for Data Processing License

  • Submit the company incorporation documents, business plan, and operational strategy.
  • Approval from relevant authorities typically takes 4–8 weeks.

Step 3 – Bank Account Setup

  • Open a corporate bank account for operational and compliance purposes.
  • Banks perform KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) checks.
  • Choice of bank affects international payment processing and crypto or e-wallet integration.

Step 4 – Implement Compliance Measures

  • Operators must adopt AML/KYC procedures.
  • Internal controls ensure safe and legal operations.
  • Compliance documentation is often required by banks and partners.
Step 5 – Begin Operations
  • Once all approvals are obtained, companies can legally launch online gambling services targeting international clients.

Costs, Timeline & Documentation

Estimated Costs:

  • Company formation (SRL/SA): USD 3,000–8,000
  • Data Processing License: USD 5,000–10,000
  • Bank account setup: USD 500–1,500
  • Optional compliance & consulting services: USD 1,000–3,000
  • Full-service package (company + license + bank + compliance): USD 8,000–15,000 first year

Timeline:

  • Company formation: 2–4 weeks
  • License approval: 4–8 weeks

Required Documentation:

  • Company incorporation documents (SRL/SA)
  • Director/shareholder IDs and proof of address
  • Business plan and financial projections
  • AML/KYC policies

Who Should Apply for a Costa Rica Gambling License?

Costa Rica licenses are ideal for:

  • Online casino and poker platforms
  • Sports betting websites
  • Lottery and sweepstakes businesses
  • International operators seeking a cost-effective, flexible jurisdiction
  • Startups testing the online gambling market before moving to EU or US-regulated licenses

Advantages

  • Fast setup: company formation and license approval are streamlined.
  • Operational flexibility: fewer restrictions than highly regulated jurisdictions.
  • International banking: access to accounts for processing international payments.
  • Cost efficiency: lower fees compared to Malta or UK licenses.
  • Legal protection: Data Processing License offers legitimacy and reduces regulatory risk.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Limited recognition internationally compared to Malta Gaming Authority, UKGC, or Curacao licenses.
  • No EU or US passporting rights.
  • Requires strict compliance for international operations.
  • Banks may perform enhanced due diligence for gambling operators.

Banking and Payment Solutions

For Costa Rica licensed operators:

  • Corporate bank accounts: Essential for day-to-day operations; banks often request full compliance documentation.
  • Fintech solutions: International e-wallets and payment processors can be integrated to expand market reach.
  • Crypto-friendly banks: Some operators integrate Bitcoin, Ethereum, or stablecoins, though regulatory scrutiny is high.
  • Payment provider selection: Must align with jurisdictional restrictions and licensing obligations.

Proper banking setup is critical for smooth operations and maintaining credibility with international clients.

Compliance and Risk Management

Operators must maintain:

  • AML/KYC programs for clients
  • Internal operational controls
  • Periodic audits and documentation
  • Secure data handling for players

Failure to comply may result in bank account restrictions, legal disputes, or reputational damage.

Comparison with Other Gambling Jurisdictions (List Format)

Costa Rica

  • Licensing Type: Data Processing License
  • Recognition: Limited
  • Cost: USD 8,000–15,000
  • Key Advantage: Fast setup, flexible, cost-effective for startups

Curacao

  • Licensing Type: eGaming License
  • Recognition: Medium
  • Cost: USD 15,000–25,000
  • Key Advantage: Recognized for online casinos, widely accepted internationally

Malta

  • Licensing Type: MGA License
  • Recognition: High
  • Cost: USD 30,000–50,000+
  • Key Advantage: Full EU recognition, strong credibility for operators

United Kingdom (UK)

  • Licensing Type: UKGC License
  • Recognition: Very High
  • Cost: USD 50,000+
  • Key Advantage: Trusted, highly regulated, ideal for large-scale operations

FAQ – Costa Rica Gambling License

Can foreigners apply for a license?

Yes, non-residents can establish a local SRL/SA and apply.

How long does the process take?

Company formation: 2–4 weeks; license approval: 4–8 weeks.

Is local presence required?

Yes, a registered office in Costa Rica is mandatory.

What is the total cost?

From USD 8,000 for minimal setup, up to USD 15,000+ for full-service packages including compliance and banking support.

Can I operate globally with this license?

Yes, primarily for non-US and non-restricted markets, with proper compliance.

Is Costa Rica suitable for startups?

Yes, it provides cost-effective entry, fast setup, and operational flexibility.

What are the main risks?

Banks may require enhanced due diligence; limited recognition compared to EU/UK licenses.

Start Your Gambling Business in Costa Rica

Obtaining a Costa Rica gambling license provides legal protection, operational flexibility, and international credibility.

Professional guidance ensures:

  • Correct company structure
  • Smooth license application
  • Banking setup and compliance
  • Ongoing operational support

Launching your gambling business in Costa Rica is not just registration — it is building a compliant, scalable, and internationally trusted operation.

Ready to start? Contact our expert team for a full-service package, from company formation to banking, licensing, and compliance support, ensuring a smooth launch in 2026.

Get Your Costa Rica Gambling License with Full Legal Support