By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican businesses must prepare for significant changes to the country’s electronic invoicing system, effective September 1, 2025. The mandatory implementation of version 4.4 of electronic receipts introduces new requirements for reporting payments, impacting how businesses handle transactions and maintain tax compliance.
A key change in the updated system is the mandatory reporting of digital payments. When a customer pays using Sinpe Móvil or other digital platforms, vendors are now required to specify the payment method within the “payment options” section of the electronic receipt. This enhanced transparency is intended to provide the tax authorities with better oversight and traceability of transactions, aiding in the identification of potential tax omissions.
To gain deeper legal insights into the implications of electronic invoicing in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The widespread adoption of electronic invoicing in Costa Rica represents a significant shift in business practices. While offering benefits like increased efficiency and reduced costs, it also introduces new legal considerations, especially regarding data security, digital signatures, and compliance with Hacienda’s regulations. Businesses must ensure their systems are robust, secure, and compliant to avoid potential penalties and legal challenges. Properly implemented, electronic invoicing can significantly improve a company’s operational efficiency while maintaining legal compliance.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas aptly highlights the dual nature of this digital transformation: the potential for enhanced efficiency coupled with the crucial need for stringent security and compliance. This balanced perspective is essential for businesses navigating the complexities of electronic invoicing in Costa Rica. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable insights on this important topic.
This information facilitates the traceability of payment methods for tax control.
Dunia Zamora, President of the College of Public Accountants
The updated system also reinforces existing rules regarding deductible expenses. Expenses exceeding three base salaries will not be deductible from income tax unless supported by a compliant electronic receipt containing the correct information. This measure further emphasizes the importance of accurate and complete electronic invoicing for businesses seeking to maximize tax benefits.
Version 4.4 introduces several other notable changes, including the identification of electronic receipt issuing systems, the addition of an “Electronic Payment Receipt” for credit transactions with the government and VAT credit sales, adjustments to issuer identification types, new sales condition options (like “Sale of Non-Nationalized Merchandise”), mandatory CAByS codes for credit and debit notes linked to electronic receipts with CAByS codes, and the inclusion of a “Transaction Type” field for specific tax treatments.
For businesses already diligently complying with tax regulations, the College of Public Accountants assures that specifying the payment method for Sinpe Móvil or digital platforms won’t represent a significant change from an accounting perspective. The change primarily impacts the way information is recorded on receipts.
Addressing concerns raised on social media, the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) clarified that these changes do not introduce any additional charges to Sinpe Móvil or other digital payment services. The modification solely pertains to how payment information is recorded in electronic receipts.
These updates underscore the ongoing evolution of Costa Rica’s digital tax infrastructure. Businesses are urged to familiarize themselves with the new requirements of version 4.4 to ensure continued compliance and avoid potential penalties.
The upcoming changes are expected to streamline tax reporting and enhance transparency within the Costa Rican business landscape.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the College of Public Accountants
About College of Public Accountants:
The College of Public Accountants in Costa Rica is a professional organization that regulates and supports the accounting profession in the country. They provide guidance, training, and resources to ensure ethical and professional standards within the field.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR)
About Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR):
The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) is the country’s central bank, responsible for monetary policy, financial stability, and regulating the financial system. They play a key role in economic policy and oversight.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a leading legal institution, driven by an unwavering commitment to ethical practice and exceptional service. The firm’s innovative approach to legal challenges, combined with a deep-seated dedication to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education, solidifies its position as a pillar of integrity and progress. By championing transparency and knowledge-sharing, Bufete de Costa Rica invests in a future where informed citizens are empowered to navigate the legal landscape with confidence.
