Best Crypto Exchanges in Costa Rica (2025)

Central America has become a focal point for cryptocurrency innovation, and Costa Rica stands out with its open and supportive environment for crypto businesses. The nation’s laissez-faire regulatory approach allows crypto companies to thrive while maintaining compliance with national institutions like the National Registry, the SUGEF, and the Central Bank of Costa Rica. 

This balance of freedom and oversight ensures that cryptocurrency ventures can operate transparently and lawfully, making Costa Rica an attractive destination for blockchain-based enterprises.

Costa Ricans must therefore choose the most reliable crypto exchanges to securely trade, invest, and store their digital assets. This guide explores the top crypto platforms in Costa Rica, highlighting key features, fees, and security measures to help users make informed decisions.

Read Also: History of Top Cryptocurrency Exchanges

Key Takeaways

• Costa Rica’s regulatory approach to cryptocurrency allows exchanges to operate freely while ensuring compliance with local institutions like the Central Bank and SUGEF.
• When choosing a crypto exchange in Costa Rica, key factors include regulatory compliance, security features, fee structure, and available payment methods.
• Popular exchanges like UEEx, eToro, and Kraken offer advanced trading tools, low fees, and strong security to cater to Costa Rican crypto traders.
• To ensure lawful and transparent operations, crypto exchanges in Costa Rica must adhere to national regulations, including anti-money laundering rules.

Top Crypto Exchanges in Costa Rica

Exchange	Trading Fees	Best For	Max Leverage	Available Assets	Fiat Support–Costa Rican colon (CRC)	Security Features	Unique Features
UEEx	Spot Trading: 0.09%  Futures Trading: 0.05% Margin Trading: 0.08 %-0.10%  Stock Trading: 1.50%	Best Overall	200x	300+	No	Cold storage, Proof of Reserve Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU)	UE Coin Miner app Comprehensive insurance coverage for 100% fund protection Copy trading
eToro	Trading and Deposit Fees: 1% for crypto traders Crypto Asset Transfer Fee: 2%	Stock and Crypto Copy Trading.	30x	7,000+	No	Advanced cybersecurity measures, segregated client accounts, and regulation by trusted authorities like FCA and CySec.	Innovative CopyTrader™ feature. Easy-to-use interface for beginners and professionals alike
Coinmama	0.99% – 3.9%, depending on loyalty level	User-Friendly Interface	N/A	500+	Yes	Non custodial walletReal time monitoring	Operates transparently as a publicly traded company on TSXV (Ticker: WFLD).
Phemex	Spot Trading: 0.1000% maker/taker (20% Discount) Contract Trading: 0.0100%/0.0600% maker/taker (10% Discount)	Most Efficient	100x	355+	No	Proof of solvencycold wallet storage and offline signatures	First exchange to offer Proof of Solvency
Kraken	0.25% (Maker), 0.40% (Taker) with volume incentives; 0.02% for all margin trading pairs except BTC (0.01%)	Crypto and NFT	50x	200+	No	Utilizes cold storage and two-factor authentication (2FA)	Automated staking with competitive APRs of up to 12% Provides deep liquidity across markets
Binance	Trading Fees: 0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for Spot and margin (Fees may vary as the level increases)	Beginners and Experienced Traders	125x	350+	No	Offline cold storage, two-factor authentication, multi-signature and threshold signature schemes (TSS) and Advanced Data Encryption	Ensures high trading volume and liquidity for better market execution. Educational resources from Binance Academy, Has a very high trading volume
Uphold	0.25% for most stablecoins and major market FX 1.4% – 1.6% for BTC and ETH 1.9% – 2.95% for altcoins 1.9% – 2.95% for precious metals	Listing New Tokens Early	N/A	300+	No	advanced encryption, 24/7 monitoring, and rigorous audits	Early listing of new coins
Eightcap	Spread vary by trades (Ranges from 0 to 16)	CFDs Trading	Varies	800+	Yes	Regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (AFSL 391441). CySEC	Supports MT4 and MT5 platforms, providing advanced charting tools

UEEx – Best Overall

Traders in Costa Rica choose UEEx as the best overall crypto exchange for its robust features and global reach, serving over 21 million users with 300+ trading pairs. Its multi-platform support allows users to manage transactions effortlessly across devices. 

With secure payment options, Costa Rican users can easily trade popular cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, and DOGE. Real-time price tracking and alerts enhance trading efficiency, while competitive fees and advanced security measures, including the Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU), make UEEx a reliable and trusted platform for crypto trading in 2025.

Pros

• Advanced security features, including cold storage and encryption.
• 24/7 customer support available.
• Access to over 300 cryptocurrencies and stocks.
• Free deposit options.
• Easy trading across multiple devices, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.
• Multiple payment methods supported.
• Enhanced security with sophisticated protocols and SAFU fund protection.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage for 100% fund protection.

Cons

• Relatively new platform
• Withdrawal through fiat currencies is limited.

Fees and Deposits

• Spot Trading: 0.09% 
• Futures Trading: 0.05%
• Margin Trading: 0.08 %-0.10% 
• Stock Trading: 1.50%
• Deposit fee: Free

eToro – Best for Stock and Crypto Copy Trading

Launched in 2007, eToro is a trusted global trading platform ideal for stock and crypto copy trading in Costa Rica. With access to over 7,000 financial instruments, including 100+ cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, and commodities, eToro empowers users with diverse investment opportunities. 

Its innovative CopyTrader™ feature allows users to replicate strategies from top investors in real-time. Regulated by authorities like FCA and CySec, eToro prioritizes security with advanced measures and segregated accounts. The platform also offers free educational resources through the eToro Academy, supporting traders of all experience levels.

Pros

• Provides exceptional customer service, including live chat support.
• Ideal for beginners, with an easy setup process to start trading.
• Offers competitive, industry-leading commission rates.
• Includes a free $100K demo account for risk-free practice trading.
• Enables real-time replication of successful traders’ strategies.
• Designed with an intuitive interface suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
• Grants access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, and more.

Cons

• Relatively high fees for withdrawals ($5 or above for some assets).
• Applies an inactivity fee after 12 months of account inactivity.
• Lacks integration with the MetaTrader platform.
• Features high spreads on certain assets.

Fees and Deposits

• Account Opening and Management Fees: Free
• Withdrawal Fee: Free or $5
• Inactivity Fee: $10/month
• Conversion fees: Vary depending on location, payment method, and club level
• Stocks Commission Fee: $1 or $2
• Stamp Duty Reserve Tax: 0.5%
• Trading and Deposit Fees: 1% for crypto traders
• Crypto Asset Transfer Fee: 2%
• Minimum deposit: $10

Coinmama – Best Crypto Exchange With User-Friendly Interface

With a proven track record of over a decade, Coinmama is a trusted crypto exchange serving over 3.5 million users across 190 countries, including Costa Rica. Known for its intuitive interface, Coinmama simplifies cryptocurrency transactions by enabling users to easily buy, sell, and swap over 500 coins. 

Customers can start with as little as $50 and pay using credit cards, debit cards, or bank transfers. Offering secure staking options and advanced trading features, Coinmama caters to both casual users and active traders. Backed by reliable customer support, it ensures accessibility and confidence for Costa Ricans entering the crypto market.

Pros

• Supports payments via credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers.
• Allows trading and swapping between 500+ cryptocurrencies.
• Offers quick and efficient processing of transactions.
• Operates transparently as a publicly traded company on TSXV (Ticker: WFLD).
• Offers fair and competitive transaction fees.
• Provides 24/7 assistance for a smooth user experience.
• Intuitive design caters to both beginners and advanced traders.

Cons

• Doesn’t offer leverage trading.
• May not meet the needs of professional traders seeking advanced charting and analytics features.
• Transactions using cards can incur relatively higher fees compared to other funding methods.
• Coinmama does not offer a built-in wallet. The built-in wallet development is in process.
• Direct swaps between specific cryptocurrencies may require intermediate steps, adding complexity.

Fees and Deposits

• Commission fee is 0.99% – 3.9%, depending on loyalty level

Phemex – Most Efficient Crypto Trading Exchange

Phemex is a leading crypto trading exchange, trusted by over 5 million users globally since its founding in 2019. Known for its commitment to transparency, Phemex was the first exchange to implement monthly Proof of Solvency updates, ensuring the security and liquidity of users’ assets.

Read Also: Best Crypto Exchanges in Estonia (2025)

With support for over 355 cryptocurrencies and leverage options of up to 100x, Phemex offers robust solutions for spot and futures trading. Advanced security measures like cold wallet storage and offline signatures provide full asset protection. Additionally, the platform delivers low fees and attractive rewards, making it an efficient and reliable choice for crypto traders in Costa Rica.

Pros

• Processes up to 300,000 transactions per second for efficient trading.
• Provides cost-effective trading options for all users.
• Includes features like copy trading and leveraged tokens for seasoned traders.
• Implements cold wallet storage and offline signatures for full asset protection.
• The first exchange to offer monthly updates, ensuring transparency and trust.

Cons

• Primarily supports cryptocurrency transactions, limiting options for users who prefer fiat deposits.
• Does not allow users to trade without mandatory KYC requirement.
• Offering up to 100x leverage could pose significant risks for traders unfamiliar with margin trading.

Fees and Deposits

• Spot Trading: 0.1000% maker/taker (20% Discount)
• Contract Trading: 0.0100%/0.0600% maker/taker (10% Discount)
• Deposits: Not specified
• Withdrawals: Vary by cryptocurrency. For example, charges 0.00004 BTC for BTC withdrawal, 0.1 USDT & 3 USDT for USDT withdrawal on BNB and SOL network respectively.

Kraken – Best Exchange for Crypto and NFT

Costa Ricans looking to trade cryptocurrencies and NFTs will find Kraken to be a reliable and efficient platform. Supporting over 200 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, and Cardano, Kraken offers a secure environment for buying, selling, and earning rewards. 

With features like margin trading up to 50x leverage and automated staking with competitive APRs of up to 12%, Kraken caters to various trading needs. Since 2011, it has served over 10 million users in 190+ countries. 

Backed by 24/7 customer support and educational tools, Kraken is an excellent choice for both newcomers and experienced traders in Costa Rica’s growing crypto market.

Pros

• Uses cold storage and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user funds.
• Low-cost deposits in EUR and competitive rates for deposits in the USA.
• Supports margin trading and futures for diverse trading strategies.
• Offers some of the lowest fees compared to other crypto exchanges.
• Accessible platform available on both desktop and mobile apps.
• 24/7 customer support.

Cons

• Reward rates are subject to change, which could impact earning consistency.
• Better suited for professional traders with large trading volumes, which may not appeal to casual users.
• Verification processes can take longer compared to other exchanges.
• Fees can be less competitive for users with lower trading volumes.

Fees and Deposits

• Minimum Deposit: $10 (Beginner-friendly)
• Spot Trading Fees: Range 0.25%/0.40% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes)
• Futures Trading: 0.0200%/0.0500% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes)
• Deposit Fees: Free
• Withdrawal Fees: Vary by cryptocurrency

Binance – Best Crypto Exchange for Beginners and Experienced Traders

Well-known worldwide, Binance is a top choice for beginners and experienced Costa Rica traders. With over 235 million users globally, Binance offers low trading fees, access to more than 350 cryptocurrencies, and a user-friendly platform. 

Costa Rican users can easily trade Bitcoin, altcoins, and other virtual assets. Binance provides a range of services including Spot, Margin, and Futures markets, as well as options for staking, lending, and earning through Binance Earn. 

The platform also features a peer-to-peer (P2P) trading option, allowing users to buy and sell crypto directly. Advanced security measures ensure a safe trading environment for all users in Costa Rica.

Pros

• Includes a wide variety of products such as staking, lending, and P2P trading.
• Offers 24/7 customer support in over 40 languages.
• Features low trading fees for cost-effective transactions.
• Ensures high trading volume and liquidity for better market execution.
• Binance Academy offers valuable educational resources for beginners.
• Provides a wide selection of cryptocurrencies for trading.
• Provides a secure platform with advanced security measures.

Cons

• Binance is not fully regulated in all countries, which may cause concerns for some users.
• The platform’s interface can be overwhelming for beginners due to its extensive features.
• Limited availability of certain services in some regions, including Costa Rica.
• Withdrawal fees can be higher for some cryptocurrencies.

Fees and Deposits

• Trading Fees: 0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for Spot and margin (Fees may vary as the level increases)
• Deposit Fee: Free for crypto deposits and varies for fiat deposits
• Withdrawal Fee: Vary with each cryptocurrency

Uphold – Best for Listing New Tokens Early

No exchange beats Uphold when it comes to listing new tokens early in Costa Rica. With a strong track record of offering early access to promising cryptocurrencies, Uphold lists over 300 tokens, giving users a chance to discover assets before they hit other platforms. 

For example, Uphold listed ‘Magic’ 9 days before it was listed on other exchanges, offering a significant advantage to those looking to invest in emerging tokens.

Uphold also stands out for its transparent fee structure, with no charges for deposits or withdrawals. Trading fees are clearly stated, and users can trade across various asset classes, including fiat currencies. This makes Uphold a reliable and accessible platform for those looking to explore new tokens.

Pros

• No fees for deposits.
• Transparent and competitive fee structure.
• Advanced security measures to protect user data and funds.
• Early access to newly listed tokens.
• Guarantees full reservation of customer assets.
• Wide selection of cryptocurrencies available for trading.

Cons

• Trading fees and spreads may be higher for certain cryptocurrencies.
• Limited educational resources for beginners.
• Customer support response times can be slow.

Fees and Deposits

• Trading Fees: 0.25% for most stablecoins and major market FX, 1.4% – 1.6% for BTC and ETH, 1.9% – 2.95% for altcoins, 1.9% – 2.95% for precious metals
• Deposit Fees: Free in some regions like the UK and charges vary for some fiat currencies in other regions. 3.99% for instant Debit card, credit card and Apple/Google Pay.
• Withdrawal Fees: Free for 1.75% for some fiat withdrawals.

Eightcap – Best Crypto Exchange for CFDs Trading

Eightcap is the top crypto exchange for CFD trading in Costa Rica, offering access to over 800 CFD markets, including forex, commodities, crypto, indices, and shares. It supports popular trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView, providing advanced charting tools, custom indicators, and expert advisors. 

With tools like Capitalise.ai for automation and FlashTrader for fast order execution, Eightcap enhances trading efficiency. Additionally, the exchange offers a Trade Zone to help users develop their skills, with expert insights, market forecasts, and webinars. This combination of features makes Eightcap a preferred choice for CFD traders in Costa Rica.

Pros

• Provides tools like Capitalise.ai for code-free automation and FlashTrader for fast order execution.
• Offers a demo account for practicing and testing strategies.
• Provides access to regular live sessions with expert analysts.
• Tight and transparent spreads, up to five times lower than competitors.
• Engages traders in a supportive community of like-minded individuals.
• Supports multiple trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView.
• Offers advanced charting tools, custom indicators, and expert advisors for enhanced trading.

Cons

• Withdrawal processing time can take 1-2 business days.
• Limited asset range outside of CFDs.
• The trading tools can be overwhelming for beginners.
• Lacks cryptocurrency deposit and withdrawal options.

Fees and Deposits

• Trading Fee: Spread vary by trades (Ranges from 0 to 16)
• Deposit: Free or vary for wire transfer (not specified)
• Withdrawal: Free or vary for cryptocurrency withdrawal

What to Consider When Choosing a Crypto Exchange in Costa Rica

When choosing a crypto exchange in Costa Rica, it’s important to consider several factors such as:

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure the exchange adheres to Costa Rican regulations and operates within frameworks established by institutions like the Central Bank and SUGEF. Using a regulated platform, such as eToro, which complies with authorities like FCA and CySEC, enhances security and minimizes legal risks.

Security Features

Exchange	Security Features
UEEx	Cold storage, Proof of Reserve Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU)
eToro	Advanced cybersecurity measures, segregated client accounts, and regulation by trusted authorities like FCA and CySec.
Coinmama	Non custodial walletReal time monitoring
Phemex	Proof of solvencycold wallet storage and offline signatures
Kraken	Utilizes cold storage and two-factor authentication (2FA)
Binance	Offline cold storage, two-factor authentication, multi-signature and threshold signature schemes (TSS) and Advanced Data Encryption
Uphold	advanced encryption, 24/7 monitoring, and rigorous audits
Eightcap	Regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (AFSL 391441). CySEC

Your investment’s safety should be a priority. Look for platforms that utilize advanced security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA) such as Kraken and Binance, cold storage such as UEEx that stores 93% of user funds in cold storage, and proof of solvency. 

Trading Fees

Exchange	Trading Fees
UEEx	Spot Trading: 0.09%  Futures Trading: 0.05% Margin Trading: 0.08 %-0.10%  Stock Trading: 1.50%
eToro	Trading and Deposit Fees: 1% for crypto traders Crypto Asset Transfer Fee: 2%
Coinmama	0.99% – 3.9%, depending on loyalty level
Phemex	Spot Trading: 0.1000% maker/taker (20% Discount) Contract Trading: 0.0100%/0.0600% maker/taker (10% Discount)
Kraken	0.25% (Maker), 0.40% (Taker) with volume incentives;  0.02% for all margin trading pairs except BTC (0.01%)
Binance	Trading Fees: 0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for Spot and margin (Fees may vary as the level increases)
Uphold	0.25% for most stablecoins and major market FX 1.4% – 1.6% for BTC and ETH 1.9% – 2.95% for altcoins 1.9% – 2.95% for precious metals
Eightcap	Spread vary by trades (Ranges from 0 to 16)

Compare fee structures across exchanges to avoid unnecessary costs. UEEx offers one of the lowest trading fees at 0.05%, with no deposit charges or inactivity fees compared to eToro that charges $10/month if inactive for 12 months. 

In contrast, platforms like Coinmama may charge higher fees, ranging from 0.99% to 3.9%. Evaluating these costs will help you manage your trading expenses effectively.

Payment Methods

Exchange	Payment Methods
UEEx	Apple Pay, Visa, bank transfer, and credit/debit cards.
eToro	eToro Money, Credit/Debit Card (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bank Transfer, PayPal, NETELLER, Skrill, Online banking (Trustly), iDEAL, Przelewy24
Coinmama	Credit/Debit card (Incl. Apple Pay and Google Pay), Skrill/Neteller, Bank Transfer and other payment methods such as Giropay, Astropay, PIX, Khipu, WebPay, PSE, SPEI
Phemex	Credit card, debit card, bank account or Apple Pay and third-party services such as Simplex, Banxa, Mercuryo, Moonpay, Coinify
Kraken	Apple Pay, Google Pay, Visa/Mastercard, Plaid ACH
Binance	Credit/debit cards and bank transfers.
Uphold	Credit/debit cards, ACH, ACH (via Microdeposits), Wire transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Crypto network. FPS, SEPA bank transfer(For EU/UK customers)
Eightcap	Credit/debit cards, Skrill, Neteller, Poli, Bank transfer, Paypal, Dragon pay, Pix, Fasapay

Choose an exchange with flexible payment options for deposits and withdrawals. For example, Coinmama and UEEx support credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and even Apple/Google Pay, while Coinmama also supports Costa Rican colón (CRC). This flexibility makes funding and withdrawing from your account more convenient.

Liquidity

An exchange with high liquidity ensures smoother trades and better prices by minimizing slippage. Binance is a prime example of a platform with high liquidity, providing fast and efficient transactions.

Available Cryptocurrencies

Exchange	Available Assets
UEEx	200+
eToro	7,000+
Coinmama	500+
Phemex	355+
Kraken	200+
Binance	350+
Uphold	300+
Eightcap	800+

The variety of cryptocurrencies offered by an exchange matters if you want to diversify your portfolio. Platforms like Binance offer 350+ cryptocurrencies, while UEEx and Uphold provide access to 200+ and 300+ assets, respectively. Pick an exchange that aligns with the coins you plan to trade.

Customer Support

Reliable customer support can make a significant difference if you face account or trade issues. Look for exchanges offering live chat, email, or phone support. Reading user reviews will also help gauge how responsive and helpful their support teams are.

User Interface

A simple, intuitive interface makes navigating an exchange effortless, regardless of your experience level. UEEx, for instance, provides a clean and user-friendly platform, making it easy to execute trades and explore features.

How to Start Trading on UEEx in Costa Rica

Here are easy steps to follow to start trading on UEEx in Costa Rica: 

Open an Account

Go to the UEEx website and navigate to the top right corner of the homepage, where you’ll see the “Sign Up” button. Click on it. On the next page, fill in your details, including your phone number or email, a secure password, and an invitation code (if you have one) for commissions. Once done, click on “Sign Up.”

You’ll receive a verification code sent to your email or phone. Enter this code to confirm and activate your account. You’re now ready to start trading on UEEx!

Deposit Funds

To start trading immediately, go to the “Asset Management” section of the UEEx platform. In this section, find the “Recharge” option under your selected asset and choose the cryptocurrency or fiat option you prefer.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the deposit process. The time it takes for your deposit to clear will depend on the cryptocurrency or fiat currency you use, as well as the required block confirmations or deposit processing time. Once your funds are deposited, you’re all set to begin trading!

Start Trading

Now that you have successfully funded your account, it’s time to start trading. Simply click “Trade” next to your chosen asset. You’ll then need to choose an order type:

• Market Order: This option buys or sells immediately at the current market price.
• Limit Order: With this, you can set a specific price for buying or selling.

The next thing is to enter the amount of cryptocurrency you want to buy or the fiat currency you wish to spend. Once you’ve reviewed your order, click “Buy” or “Sell” to complete the transaction and start trading!

Are Crypto Exchanges Legal in Costa Rica?

Yes, crypto exchanges are legal in Costa Rica. The country has a relatively open approach to cryptocurrency businesses, with no specific laws that outright ban crypto trading or exchanges. 

However, exchanges must comply with local regulations, such as those set by the Central Bank of Costa Rica, SUGEF, and the National Registry. 

Read Also: Best Crypto Exchanges in Barbados (2025)

While crypto businesses operate with a degree of freedom, they must ensure transparency, follow anti-money laundering rules, and operate within the broader legal framework. Read more here.

Conclusion

Costa Rica offers a welcoming environment for crypto trading, with several reliable exchanges catering to different needs. Whether you’re looking for advanced trading tools, low fees, or a user-friendly interface, there’s a platform to suit your preferences. 

By considering factors like regulatory compliance, security, and liquidity, Costa Ricans can confidently navigate the crypto market in 2025. Choose a crypto exchange that aligns with your goals, and start trading securely today!

Frequently Asked Questions