Obtain a Gambling/ Gaming License in Costa Rica

Even if there is no dedicated gambling/gaiming license in Costa Rica, there are specific requirements to abide by when opening such a facility. Below, our company formation agents in Costa Rica explain what they are and how they can assist you.

Are there any foreign ownership restrictions when setting up a gaming facility in Costa Rica in 2026?

No, the business can be entirely owned by one or more foreign shareholders.

Are there any special requirements to comply with in terms of company registration in Costa Rica for operating a casino?

You must follow the regular Costa Rican company formation procedure and appoint a local agent.

What are the steps to set up a gaming business in Costa Rica?

Starting such a business implies registering a company in Costa Rica, as follows:

1. securing a local address;
2. opening a local bank account;
3. drafting the necessary documents for company formation in Costa Rica;
4. registering the company with the Trade Register;
5. applying for a tax identification code.

Do I need to apply for a casino/gaming license in Costa Rica?

There are no traditional licenses available for casinos in Costa Rica; however, you must comply with a different licensing requirement.

What is the license that I need to obtain in the absence of a dedicated business permit?

You need to apply for one of the available Data Processing Licenses.

What are the types of licenses I can obtain when opening a casino in Costa Rica?

There are two types of permits you can apply for:

1. the data processing license for a permanent lease, which will enable you to operate on a continuous basis against an annual fee;
2. the license for a temporary lease, which is valid for 6 months, thus making it a good option for those who want to test the market first.

Are there any minimum share capital requirements for obtaining a Data Processing License in Costa Rica?

No, there are no minimum capital requirements; however, you must draft a business plan and provide proof of sufficient capital to run such operations.

What are the steps to obtain a Data Processing License in Costa Rica?

Here they are:

1. register a local company (the private limited liability company is recommended);
2. appoint a local registered agent;
3. apply for the license.

What are the documents required to obtain a Data Processing License in Costa Rica?

If you are interested in a Costa Rican Data Processing license, you must prepare the following documents:

• name of the registration agent (this is a mandatory requirement when opening any type of company in Costa Rica);
• a power of attorney for the registration agent;
• identification papers of the shareholders (minimum 2 shareholders are required when opening a company in Costa Rica);
• identification papers of the local director;
• the company’s statutory documents must be submitted when filing for the data processing license;
• a detailed business plan showing the gaming operations to be undertaken, the target market, the predicted revenues, and compliance measures.

Please note that if the shareholders do not need residency in Costa Rica, the director must be a resident.

Can I operate a casino in Costa Rica after obtaining the Data Processing License?

No, you can only operate it offshore.

How long does it take to obtain a license to operate an online casino in Costa Rica?

The entire registration and licensing procedures of the company take about 6 weeks to complete in 2026.

What are the gaming/ gambling activities I can undertake from Costa Rica based on this special license?

You have several options, among which are:

• online casinos;
• bookmaking operations;
• online sports betting;
• e-sport betting activities;
• online lotteries and sweepstakes.

Are there any compliance requirements for gaming operators in Costa Rica?

Yes, even in the lack of a dedicated authority and a Costa Rican gambling license, the following regulations must be respected by online casinos:

• the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations;
• the Unusual Transactions Law;
• the Counter-Terrorism Financing Regulations, as Costa Rica is a member of GAFILAT, the FATF-style regional body;
• the Know-Your-Customer (KYC) Policies;
• the Commercial Law;
• the Criminal Code.

If you are planning to move to Costa Rica to open a casino, our specialists can assist you. We can also help you apply for Costa Rican citizenship through naturalization after the required years of residence (there is no citizenship-by-investment scheme).

If you need to get a license in another country, such as the Cayman Islands, our specialists at BridgeWest Cayman Islands can help you.

Feel free to contact us and find out how we can help you operate a casino in Costa Rica without having to apply for a dedicated gaming license in 2026.