Costa Rica vs Seychelles
Crypto regulation comparison
Costa Rica
Seychelles
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.
The VASP Act 2024 effective Sept 2024 establishes FSA as regulator for virtual asset service providers. Exchanges require licensing. Mining and mixer/tumbler services are prohibited in Seychelles.
Tax Type
Unclear
Tax Type
No tax
Tax Rate
N/A
Tax Rate
0%
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
No
Regulator
BCCR (Banco Central de Costa Rica), SUGEF
Regulator
Financial Services Authority (FSA)
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin-specific regulation
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under VASP Act 2024
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
- VASP Act 2024 enacted Aug 30, effective Sept 1, 2024
- FSA licenses and supervises all virtual asset service providers
- Mining facilities and mixer/tumbler services prohibited
- VASPs must maintain local office and resident director
- Licensed IBC VASPs taxed at 1.5% on assessable income