What Does a Company Need to Export from Costa Rica?

Expanding your business across borders is an excellent growth strategy. However, to export safely and effectively from Costa Rica, it’s essential to comply with a series of legal requirements.

At ERP Lawyers, we guide exporting companies through this process to ensure every step is handled correctly. Here’s what you need to know:

Key legal requirements for exporting:

✅ Register as an exporter with PROCOMER

Any company or individual wishing to export must register with the Single Window for Foreign Trade (VUCE). Registration is free and must be renewed every two years.

✅ Comply with product-specific requirements

Tariffs vary depending on the product, so you must check the tariff classification.
Depending on the nature of your product, you may need to register with other institutions or obtain special export permits.

Some examples:

• Food, cosmetics, and medicines: Register with the Ministry of Health

• Coffee: Register with ICAFE

• Weapons and explosives: Special permit from the Ministry of Public Security

✅ Mandatory documentation

• Single Customs Declaration (DUA): Detailed product information including description, weight, value, and tariff codes

• Commercial invoice

• Transport documents: Cargo manifest, bill of lading (depending on transport mode), and instructions

• Certifications (quality, quantity, etc.)

• Packing list

• Certificate of Origin (processed through PROCOMER)

• Insurance policy

How to avoid issues during exportation:

• Understand the specific export conditions for your product

• Review tariffs carefully

• It is advisable to negotiate International Commercial Terms (INCOTERMS) and the international sales contract between buyer and seller

How to register as an exporter:

For individuals:

• Image of ID document

For legal entities:

• Digital, notarial, or registered legal representation certificate (original must be presented in person if not digital)

• Image of ID of legal representatives

Registration methods:

• In person:

  1. User completes and submits registration online

  2. Officer reviews and validates

  3. User presents signed form at the preferred VUCE office

  4. Officer approves the registration

• Digital:

  1. User submits registration online

  2. Legal representative signs digitally

  3. Officer reviews and approves

For more details, visit the official PROCOMER website.

How ERP Lawyers supports you:

✔️ We assist with your exporter registration
✔️ We provide guidance on negotiating INCOTERMS and international sales contracts

Expanding your business globally is easier with the right support.
Ready to take the next step? 👉 Contact us, and we’ll guide you through the process.