Prediction Primer Open Polymarket

Polymarket in Costa Rica

Accessible: not geoblocked and no Costa Rican action against Polymarket found.

Polymarket statusNot geoblocked by Polymarket
National positionGrey area: no specific rule
RegulatorJunta de Protección Social (JPS, state lottery monopoly); no central gambling authority
Last reviewed23 October 2026

The legal situation in Costa Rica

Polymarket does not geoblock Costa Rica, and no Costa Rican action against it was found. Costa Rica has no online gambling licensing regime and no central gambling regulator; the state JPS holds lottery monopoly rights. Foreign operators have long incorporated locally as long as they do not target Costa Ricans. A reform bill (25.057) was rejected in early 2026, and a successor (25.600) has been revived without a timetable.

Key facts

  • The JPS holds state lottery rights; there is no licensing for online betting.
  • Illegal operators reportedly hold about 53% of the lottery and betting sector, costing about $300m a year.
  • Bill 25.057 was rejected in early 2026; Bill 25.600 to modernise the JPS has been revived.
  • No site-blocking measures and no Polymarket-specific action found.

Getting started in Costa Rica

Polymarket does not geoblock this country, but that is not the same as a local licence. Check the national position above, then follow our guides to sign up, deposit and place a trade. Profits may be taxable locally; keep records of every trade.

Sources

General information, not legal advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Polymarket legal in Costa Rica?

Accessible: not geoblocked and no Costa Rican action against Polymarket found.

Can I use a VPN for Polymarket in Costa Rica?

No. Using a VPN to reach Polymarket from a restricted location breaks its terms of service and can lead to frozen accounts. It may also break local law.