Establishing an Association in Costa Rica

An association in Costa Rica is a non-profit, tax-exempt entity or organization in which a group of people are organized for a joint purpose.

The law authorizes the creation of Associations for “scientific, artistic, sports, charitable, recreational and any other lawful purposes that are not solely and exclusively for profit or gain.”

Steps To Establish:

1: Agree on the constitution of the legal entity.

All members must present a draft of the statutes and the requirements of each figure. The constitution must be notarized. Each association must be integrated by 10 people or more and have a board of directors of at least 7.

2: Register with the National Registry 

This may take 15-22 days for members to register with the national registry section of legal entities.

3: Obtain an identification number 

This is when the association is granted legal status and books will be legalized. 

4: Maintain association

Administrative board must provide annual reports of the activities of the association and keep books referring to these activities and administrative bodies. Must indicate a month and fortnight in which the annual meeting is held.  

Source:

Create a New Association or Non-Profit Organization in Costa Rica, companiescr.com/Associations_in_Costa_Rica.html.

“How to Form an NGO in Costa Rica.” Biz Latin Hub, 11 Aug. 2020, www.bizlatinhub.com/how-to-form-ngo-costa-rica/.