Online poker is legal for operators to provide from Costa Rica, though with specific restrictions regarding local participation. While Costa Rica lacks comprehensive online gambling legislation, companies can legally operate gambling services including poker from within the country, provided they do not offer services to Costa Rican residents (1). The country has become a popular jurisdiction for international gambling operators, with more than 400 online casinos and bookmakers currently registered in Costa Rica despite the absence of specific online gambling regulatory framework.
The regulatory oversight falls under the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC), which serves as the company registration authority and is responsible for licensing gambling operations in Costa Rica (2). Operators must register as legal entities with MEIC and comply with relevant laws including anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing requirements. The ministry requires operators to submit proper documentation including Articles of Incorporation and appoint a legal representative to operate legally within the jurisdiction.
"All necessary documents and the application for a gambling license in Costa Rica are submitted to the company registration authority – the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Commerce, which is also responsible for licensing."
Costa Rica offers significant advantages for poker operators including a favorable tax environment with no taxes levied on gambling or sports betting, and zero tax rates on revenue generated outside Costa Rica. However, operators must implement IP-blocking technology to prevent Costa Rican residents from accessing their services, as online gambling remains illegal for local citizens. This regulatory framework has established Costa Rica as a prominent offshore gambling hub, attracting international operators seeking to serve global markets while benefiting from business-friendly regulations and tax advantages.
Source:
https://slotegrator.pro/analytical_articles/obtaining-a-gaming-license-in-costa-rica-in-2022/
https://lawrange.net/en/services/gambling-license-in-costa-rica/
Last updated: 27-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
