Costa Rica Sociedad De Responsibilidad Limitada (Srl) Company Formation
The Costa Rican Srl is similar to a Limited Liability Company in the UK or a GmbH in Austria and Germany in that it is a legal entity which is separate and distinct from the individuals who run it. For sole traders and for people in partnerships, the individuals’ personal assets are at risk if there is a claim against the organisation but shareholders in an Srl are liable to lose only the value of the share capital to which they subscribe.
Costa Rica is an attractive jurisdiction for an international business to establish a tax free haven as companies that generate no commercial income within Costa Rica are exempt from corporation tax.
Company Name
Company names must be unique and prior approved by the registry. The name may be in English provided it is accompanied by a Spanish translation. The company name must end with the Srl (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada) We are able to check whether your proposed company name is acceptable with the registry.
Registered Office
All companies must have a registered office in Costa Rica where all official company documents and correspondents may be served. We will provide the registered office.
Directors
Srl requires one director , there are no nationality or residency requirements.
Shareholders
The Srl required just one shareholder.
Share Capital
There is no minimum share capital but at least 25% of the chosen amount of capital must be paid up on incorporation.
Filing Requirements
Only ‘Large’ or public companies are required to file annual financial statements with the Registro Nacional and have their accounts audited. All companies must keep accounts at the registered office in Costa Rica. Companies must file tax returns within two months and 15 days of the end of the fiscal period.
Timescale
Once all the necessary documents have been received it takes only two weeks to incorporate.
Fees
Costa Rica Company Formation – £1380
Company Administration & Registered Office – £950
Government Fee US$200
Corporate Tax US$130
Mail Forwarding £450
Gambling / Data License
It is permitted for businesses to conduct gambling activities from Costa Rica provided that you obtain:
A Costa Rican Corporation
Registration with the tax authorities – Administración Tributaria
A Data Processing License (DPL) , which we can assist with from the local government authorities
Proof of Identity
As part of our due diligence we require proof of identity in the form of a passport copy for all directors and shareholders of the company.
Travel
There is no need to visit Costa Rica in order to incorporate.
Costa Rica - Company Formations & Company Documents
