Legality of Online Gambling in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s gambling laws are unusual compared to most countries. There is no dedicated licensing framework for online casinos targeting local players, and there is no specific government body regulating the domestic online gambling scene. However, gambling is not prohibited, meaning residents can freely use offshore platforms without facing legal consequences.
The real twist? Costa Rica is one of the most popular places in the world for online gambling companies to base their operations. Businesses can obtain a general business license that allows them to offer gambling services to international customers, but not to Costa Rican residents. This creates a unique situation where Costa Rica is both a global iGaming hub and a relatively unregulated local market.
Local Laws at a Glance
| Gambling Activity | Legal Status | Regulated By |
|---|
| Land-based casinos | Legal | Ministry of Finance |
| Online casinos (local) | No local licensing | N/A |
| Online casinos (offshore) | Accessible to players | N/A |
| Sports betting (local) | No local licensing | N/A |
| Lotteries | Legal | Junta de Protección Social |
What This Means for Players
Costa Rican players have open access to the global iGaming market but must rely on offshore operators for their gaming options. While this provides plenty of variety, it also means players should be cautious, choosing only reputable, licensed platforms from respected jurisdictions to ensure fair play and secure payouts.
Costa Rica is a paradox in the online gambling world – a major hub for iGaming companies globally, yet without a structured domestic market for its own players.