Costa Rica vs Nicaragua
Crypto regulation comparison
Costa Rica
Nicaragua
No Regulation
Legal
Costa Rica has no specific cryptocurrency legislation. The Central Bank has stated crypto is not legal tender and not backed by the government, but has not prohibited its use. Some businesses accept Bitcoin, and there is a growing crypto community, particularly in tech-focused areas.
Nicaragua regulates virtual assets under Law 1072 (2021) and BCN resolution CD-BCN-XXV-1-22 (2022). VASPs must be licensed by BCN. Crypto gains taxed at 15% capital gains rate.
Tax Type
Unclear
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Rate
N/A
Tax Rate
15%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
BCCR (Banco Central de Costa Rica), SUGEF
Regulator
Banco Central de Nicaragua (BCN)
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin-specific regulation
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin regulation
Key Points
- No specific cryptocurrency legislation exists
- BCCR does not recognize crypto as legal tender but has not banned it
- Crypto businesses operate in a legal gray area without formal licensing
- A Bitcoin and crypto community has emerged, especially around tech hubs
- Tax obligations on crypto gains are unclear due to lack of specific guidance
Key Points
- Law 1072 (2021) defines virtual assets and regulates VASPs
- BCN is designated as the licensing and supervisory authority
- Banks are legally permitted to offer virtual asset services
- Capital gains taxed at 15% on crypto profits
- Government monitors virtual transactions exceeding ,000 since 2025