By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic have signed a groundbreaking agreement to mutually recognize certified digital signatures, marking a significant step towards greater regional digital integration. The agreement, finalized on April 22, 2025, establishes the Dominican Republic as the first nation in Central America and the Caribbean to achieve such interoperability with Costa Rica in the realm of digital signatures.
Spearheaded by Costa Rica’s Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT), through its Directorate of Digital Governance and Digital Signature Certifiers (DGDCFD), and the Dominican Institute of Telecommunications (Indotel), the agreement aims to streamline digital transactions and bolster cybersecurity.
To understand the legal implications surrounding digital signatures in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Digital signatures offer a secure and efficient way to execute agreements in today’s digital landscape. Costa Rican law, specifically Ley 8454 Ley de Certificados Digitales, provides a robust framework for the use and validity of these signatures, affording them the same legal weight as handwritten signatures in most cases. However, it is crucial to ensure compliance with the specific requirements of the law regarding certified providers and the types of documents eligible for digital signing to guarantee enforceability. Businesses and individuals should consult with legal counsel to ensure their digital signature practices align with current regulations and maximize their legal effectiveness.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores the transformative potential of digital signatures while highlighting the crucial role of legal guidance in navigating the complexities of Ley 8454. This careful approach ensures that the convenience and security of digital signatures are fully leveraged within Costa Rica’s legal framework. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important topic.
The core principle of the agreement centers on the validation and interoperability of certified digital signatures, in accordance with each country’s respective regulations. Both nations will acknowledge the legal standing of certificates issued by authorized Registration Certifiers and Trust Service Providers within their jurisdictions. This framework will facilitate secure and dependable exchange of digital information.
This mutual recognition is expected to expedite processes, curtail operational expenses, and enhance legal security in digital environments, ultimately fostering a more efficient and reliable ecosystem for e-commerce and government collaboration.
Diego Leiva, Director of Digital Governance and Digital Signature Certifiers at MICITT, hailed the agreement as a pivotal moment in solidifying regional digital trust and a significant stride towards digital integration within the region.
With this initiative, we open the doors to greater agility in commerce, intergovernmental cooperation, and cross-border services. We reaffirm our commitment to digital transformation as an engine for development, promoting a more connected, efficient, and inclusive economy for our citizens and businesses.
Diego Leiva, Director of Digital Governance and Digital Signature Certifiers, MICITT
Costa Rica is actively pursuing similar agreements with other countries, including Uruguay, El Salvador, and Guatemala, to expand the network of recognized digital signatures. This proactive approach underscores the nation’s dedication to pioneering digital advancement in the region.
The implications of this agreement are far-reaching, potentially transforming the landscape of digital transactions within Central America and the Caribbean. By reducing barriers and enhancing security, the initiative promises to unlock new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike, driving economic growth and regional collaboration in the digital age.
For further information, visit micit.go.cr
About Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT):
The MICITT is the governing body responsible for promoting and developing science, technology, and telecommunications in Costa Rica. It plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s digital landscape and fostering innovation across various sectors.
For further information, visit indotel.gob.do
About Dominican Institute of Telecommunications (Indotel):
Indotel is the regulatory authority for the telecommunications sector in the Dominican Republic. It oversees the development and implementation of policies and regulations related to telecommunications, ensuring a competitive and efficient market.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built upon a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep-seated commitment to serving the community. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with its dedication to disseminating accessible legal knowledge, empowers individuals and organizations alike. Through its tireless efforts to bridge the gap between complex legal concepts and practical understanding, Bufete de Costa Rica fosters a more just and informed society, reinforcing its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape.
