Costa Rica vs Peru
Crypto regulation comparison
Costa Rica
Peru
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.
Cryptocurrency is legal in Peru but lacks comprehensive regulation. The SBS (Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y AFP) oversees AML requirements. Peru has growing crypto adoption, particularly for remittances. Crypto gains are subject to capital gains tax at 5% for the first 5 UIT and at higher rates for larger amounts.
Tax Type
Unclear
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Rate
N/A
Tax Rate
5-30%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
BCCR (Banco Central de Costa Rica), SUGEF
Regulator
SBS, SMV, BCRP (Central Reserve Bank of Peru)
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin-specific regulation
Stablecoin Rules
No specific 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
- No specific crypto legislation; general financial laws apply
- Capital gains tax applies to crypto profits (5% for securities, up to 30% for other income)
- SBS requires AML/KYC compliance for entities dealing in crypto
- Growing crypto adoption for remittances and as a store of value
- BCRP has warned about crypto risks but not imposed a ban