Online bingo is legal in Costa Rica, though the country operates under a unique regulatory framework different from traditional licensing jurisdictions (1). Rather than a dedicated gambling regulator, Costa Rica permits operators to establish online gambling businesses, including bingo, through a data processing license obtained from municipal authorities. This distinctive approach allows licensed operators to offer bingo and other gaming services internationally while maintaining strict restrictions on serving Costa Rican residents (2).
To operate online bingo legally in Costa Rica, operators must incorporate a local company and obtain a data processing license from municipal authorities, targeting only non-residents (1). The regulatory framework encompasses all forms of online gambling under a single unified license, including casinos, bingo, sports betting, and poker. Costa Rica imposes no specific gambling taxes on gaming revenue, making the jurisdiction cost-effective for international operators. However, operators must comply with anti-money laundering regulations, implement know-your-customer procedures, and use geo-blocking to prevent access from Costa Rican residents (2).
"Costa Rica has a single data processing license for all forms of online gambling, including casinos, sportsbooks, poker, bingo, and lotteries. This prevents the need to receive multiple licenses for different gaming products, reducing operational overhead and costs."
The Costa Rican government tolerates online gambling operations based in the country as long as transactions are not processed through local banks and services target international markets exclusively (1). Players accessing bingo from licensed Costa Rican operators benefit from established companies with recognized industry reputation, though traditional gambling consumer protections differ from regulated jurisdictions. This approach has transformed Costa Rica into a leading Latin American hub for online gaming operators seeking a flexible, cost-effective base for international operations (2).
Source:
https://www.tetraconsultants.com/jurisdictions/costa-rica-company-registration/costa-rica-gaming-license/
https://globallawexperts.com/gambling-license-in-costa-rica/
Last updated: 31-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
