Due to the country’s business-friendly investment policies, it is fairly easy to register a company in Costa Rica. This gives investors the opportunity to take advantage of this popular and growing market. A key part of the process is opening a corporate bank account in Costa Rica. Companies must be able to provide legal and financial documents to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. This guide compares the options between state and private banking institutions and outlines the specific documentation required by the SUGEF (General Superintendence of Financial Entities).
Key takeaways on how to open a corporate bank account in Costa Rica
| Which banks are best to open a corporate bank account in Costa Rica? | National Bank of Costa Rica Bank of Costa Rica Banco Promerica Costa Rica Scotiabank Banco Davivienda BAC Credomatic Costa Rica Banco Cathay de Costa Rica Banco Lafise Costa Rica |
| The four step process to open a corporate bank account in Costa Rica: | Step 1 – Choose a provider and bank account type. Step 2 – Hand over the necessary documents. Step 3 – Make initial deposit. Step 4 – Activate your account. |
| Do all banks have the same process? | This is a general guide: you will need to check individual banks’ rules or contact one of our expert advisors for more detailed rules. |
| What are the necessary documents when opening a corporate bank account in Costa Rica? | Company certificate. Certificate of the distribution of shares and social capital. Proof of registered company office. The company’s bylaws. |
| What financial checks are there in Costa Rica? | Strict KYC policies apply to foreign shareholders. US citizens must comply with FATCA regulations. |
Step-by-Step Corporate Account Setup
As long as you have successfully incorporated your business in Costa Rica and prepared all the necessary documents, opening a company bank account should be easy and relatively quick. The process can be summarized into the following four key steps:
- Step 1 – Choose a provider and bank account type.
- Step 2 – Hand over the necessary documents.
- Step 3 – Make initial deposit.
- Step 4 – Activate your account.
1. Choose a Provider and Bank Account Type
Before choosing a bank for your company account, it is important you do your research and learn about the different products and services that the local banks offer. Some banks offer only simple services like online transactions, but other banks may offer services that are more complex. You may prefer to use a private bank over a public bank, according to your company’s business needs. Depending on the type of account you choose to open, international transactions may be restricted.
2. Hand Over the Necessary Documents
Once you have chosen a banking provider, you may request the opening of a company bank account. To formally make this request, you will be required to hand in a number of official bank documents, such as those stated above, and complete the bank account application forms. If your request is accepted, you come into agreement with the bank.
3. Make Initial Deposit
Depending on the local bank you choose, and the type of account you choose to open, you will be asked to make an initial deposit of anywhere between USD$50 to USD$500. Deposits for checking accounts are usually greater.
4. Activate Your Account
Once the account has been approved, you will be able to obtain your online login information. This allows you to access a wide array of online services. Now that you have a company bank account, your business is ready to begin operations.
Major Banks in Costa Rica
These banks offer a wide range of services to suit the needs of international businesses, such as foreign currency accounts, international transfers, trade finance solutions, and regulatory compliance assistance.
- National Bank of Costa Rica
- Bank of Costa Rica
- Banco Promerica Costa Rica
- Scotiabank
- Banco Davivienda
- BAC Credomatic Costa Rica
- Banco Cathay de Costa Rica
- Banco Lafise Costa Rica
Our recommendation: We recommend that clients, as far as possible, choose a bank if they have a pre-existing relationship with it. If not, we recommend the following banks for foreign companies: BAC San José, Lafise
Requirements for a Corporate Bank Account in Costa Rica
Different banks in Costa Rica may request different documents such as passport copies of shareholders and directors, corporate documents (articles of incorporation, company registration), proof of address, shareholder structure, and local tax registration (RTV and D-151 where applicable) from customers seeking to open a corporate bank account.
Costa Rica’s AML laws require full KYC and source of funds declarations as part of the local tax and accounting requirements. Banks are regulated by the General Superintendency of Financial Institutions (SUGEF). These documents may be of a legal or financial nature. Other types may also be required. Generally, most local banks will request the following information:
- Company certificate – expedited by a public notary or the National Registry, indicating the following:
- The complete name of the company.
- Company identification number.
- Name and ID number of the legal representative.
- Certificate of the distribution of shares and social capital.
- Proof of registered company office.
- The company’s bylaws.
*Depending on the company’s activity, banks may require additional documents to grant your company a bank account.
Expert Tip: The CPA Certification of Income
From our experience, banks in Costa Rica will not open an account without a projection of income certified by a local CPA (Certified Public Accountant). This document (Certificación de Ingresos or Flujo de Caja Proyectado) must estimate the monthly flow of funds into the account. If the actual flow significantly exceeds this projection later on, the bank may freeze the account pending explanation. We advise clients to be realistic but generous in their projections to avoid operational disruptions later.
Comparison Table:
| Feature | Costa Rica | Panama | Colombia |
| Minimum Deposit | $500–$1,000 | $1,000 | $300–$1,000 |
| Account Opening Time | 2–4 weeks | 2–3 weeks | 2–3 weeks |
| Foreign Ownership Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Opening | Limited | Common | Rare |
The Role of SUGEF
The General Superintendence of Financial Entities (SUGEF) oversees the stability and compliance of the Costa Rican banking system. SUGEF mandates strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks, which means banks must identify the origin of all funds entering the account.
Additional FAQs About Costa Rican Business Banking
Based on our extensive experience, these are the common questions and doubts of our clients on opening a company bank account in Costa Rica:
1. Can I open a corporate bank account online in Costa Rica?
No. However, you can open a bank account from abroad with the support of a local attorney empowered through a power of attorney (POA). However, the original bank application forms will need to be sent to Costa Rica.
2. What bank account types exist in Costa Rica?
In Costa Rica you can have a checking, savings, or investments account. Many banks will allow you to hold accounts in USD and CRC.
3. Who can have access to a company bank account in Costa Rica?
Any member of the company that is authorized by company shareholders can have access to the bank account.
4. What is the best bank in Costa Rica for foreign companies?
We recommend the following banks for foreign companies: BAC San José, Lafise.
5. Why do companies open bank accounts in Costa Rica?
Companies choose to open bank accounts in Costa Rica due to the economic and political stability, the ability to hold currency in US Dollars, the benefits of the national taxation system, and banking privacy.
6. What documents are needed to open a corporate bank account?
The following documents are necessary:
- Company certificate – expedited by a public notary or the National Registry, indicating the following:
- The complete name of the company.
- Company identification number.
- Name and ID number of the legal representative.
- Certificate of the distribution of shares and social capital.
- Proof of registered company office.
- The company’s bylaws.
7. Can a foreign company open a bank account in Costa Rica?
Yes. Foreign companies must provide all corporate documentation, ID for directors/shareholders, and meet compliance standards. A legal representative may be required.
8. Is in-person presence required?
Most banks require a visit from the legal representative or an authorized local proxy to finalize the onboarding process.
9. How long does it take to open a business account in Costa Rica?
Usually between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on bank and documentation completeness.
10. Are USD-denominated accounts available?
Yes, most banks offer multi-currency business accounts including USD and CRC.
11. Why do I need to declare shareholders?
Under Law 8204 (Narcotics and Money Laundering), banks must identify the ultimate beneficial owners of the company. You must provide a notary certification detailing the shareholding structure up to the individual level.
12. What is the difference between state and private banks?
State banks (like Banco Nacional or Banco de Costa Rica) are government-backed and have extensive branch networks but can be bureaucratic. Private banks (like BAC Credomatic) often offer better customer service and digital platforms but may have higher minimum requirements.
Advantages of Business Banking in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is considered an upper-middle income country, and has been economically and politically stable for the past decade. It has strong tourism and technology sectors, which are seeing growing investment. Thus, an increasing number of investors are incorporating a company and setting up a corporate bank account in Costa Rica.
Opening a bank account in Costa Rica is a vital step for investors looking to engage with one of Central America’s most stable and eco-friendly economies. It simplifies transactions in Costa Rican colones, reduces international transfer costs, and ensures compliance with local financial regulations, facilitating investments in sectors like tourism, real estate, and renewable energy.
A local account enhances credibility with Costa Rican businesses and authorities while providing access to tailored financial services suited to the country’s sustainable economic model. It allows investors to navigate the regulatory framework, adapt to local market dynamics, and capitalize on the nation’s growing opportunities, ensuring a strong foundation for successful investments.
Biz Latin Hub can Help you Open a Corporate Bank Accoun in Costa Rica
At Biz Latin Hub, we provide integrated market entry and back-office services throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, with offices in Bogota and Cartagena, as well as over a dozen other major cities in the region. We also have trusted partners in many other markets.
Our unrivaled reach means we are ideally placed to support multi-jurisdiction market entries and cross border operations.
As well as knowledge of how to open a corporate bank account in Costa Rica, our portfolio of services includes hiring & PEO, accounting & taxation, company formation, bank account opening, and corporate legal services.
Contact us today to find out more about how we can assist you in finding top talent, or otherwise do business in Latin America and the Caribbean.
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