Establishing a gaming company in Costa Rica: A beginner's guide

In his latest analysis, iGaming industry consultant Ron Mendelson, Fast Offshore, provides a step-by-step overview for those looking to set up a gaming company in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica has long been a popular destination for entrepreneurs seeking to establish online gaming companies. The country’s favorable business environment, relatively low costs, and flexible regulatory framework make it an attractive location for iGaming operations. 

Why Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has earned its reputation as a hub for the online gaming industry due to several key factors:

1. No Specific Gaming License Required: Unlike many other jurisdictions, Costa Rica does not require a specific online gaming license. Companies are able to operate under a general business license, known as a "data processing" or "consulting" license, which can be obtained quickly and at a low cost.

2. Tax Efficiency: Costa Rican companies enjoy significant tax advantages. The country operates on a territorial tax system, meaning that income generated outside of Costa Rica is not subject to local taxes. This is particularly beneficial for online gaming companies that serve international markets.

3. Stable Political and Economic Environment: Costa Rica is known for its political stability and strong legal framework, which provides a secure environment for businesses. Additionally, the country has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, which is crucial for online gaming operations.

4. Skilled Workforce: Costa Rica boasts a highly educated workforce with a strong proficiency in English. This is advantageous for companies looking to staff their operations locally, particularly in customer service, IT support, and management roles.

Step 1: Incorporating your company

The first step in establishing a gaming company in Costa Rica is to incorporate a local business entity. Most entrepreneurs choose to establish a Sociedad Anónima (S.A.), which is similar to a corporation in the United States or Europe.

To incorporate an S.A., you will need:

• Two Shareholders: At least two shareholders are required to form a corporation, and they can be either individuals or legal entities. Their personal information must be provided during the incorporation process.

• Board of Directors: The company must appoint a board of directors, consisting of at least three members—a president, a treasurer, and a secretary. One individual can hold all these positions if necessary.

• Registered Agent: The company must have a registered agent in Costa Rica, typically a local attorney, who will handle legal matters and ensure compliance with local regulations.

• Capital Requirement: There is no minimum capital requirement for incorporating an S.A. in Costa Rica, making it accessible to entrepreneurs of all sizes.

The incorporation process generally takes 2-3 weeks and involves registering the company with the National Registry, obtaining a corporate ID number (Cédula Jurídica), and opening a corporate bank account.

Step 2: Obtaining a data processing license

Once your company is incorporated, the next step is to obtain a data processing license. This license allows your company to operate an online business, including gaming activities, as long as the gaming services are provided to customers outside of Costa Rica.

The process of obtaining a data processing license is straightforward:

• Business Purpose: Your company’s business purpose, as stated in the incorporation documents, must include data processing or consulting services. This will satisfy the licensing requirement.

• License Application: Submit an application to the local municipality where your company is based. The application typically requires a copy of the company’s incorporation documents, proof of a physical office in Costa Rica, and payment of a small licensing fee.

Step 3: Setting up your operations

With your company incorporated and licensed, you can now focus on setting up your gaming operations. This involves several key components:

• Website Development: Develop a professional website that is user-friendly and secure. Consider working with experienced iGaming developers to ensure compliance with international standards.

• Payment Processing: Set up a payment processing system that allows customers to deposit and withdraw funds easily. Work with reputable payment processors to avoid issues with fraud or chargebacks.

• Customer Support: Establish a customer support team to handle inquiries and issues. This is crucial for maintaining a positive reputation and ensuring player satisfaction.

• Compliance: Although Costa Rica does not heavily regulate online gaming, it is important to remain compliant with international gaming standards. Implement anti-money laundering (AML) measures, responsible gaming protocols, and data protection policies to protect your business and customers.

Step 4: Marketing and launch

Once your operations are set up, you can focus on marketing your gaming platform to attract players. Utilize digital marketing strategies such as search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, and affiliate programs to reach your target audience.

Before launching, ensure that all technical aspects are thoroughly tested to avoid any issues that could negatively impact your brand. A successful launch will depend on a combination of effective marketing, reliable technology, and excellent customer service.

Conclusion

Establishing a gaming company in Costa Rica offers numerous advantages, from the ease of setting up a business to the favorable tax environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide and working with local experts, Fast Offshore, you can navigate the process efficiently and position your company for success in the competitive iGaming industry. Costa Rica’s unique blend of flexibility and stability makes it an ideal location for new and experienced gaming operators alike. Our team of experienced professionals is waiting to get the ball rolling today! Contact Fast Offshore here.