Credit card debt continues to rise in Costa Rica. According to the latest semiannual report from the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC), the total outstanding balance of credit card debt reached ₡1,71 trillion (approximately US$3.717,8 billion) at the end of 2025. This figure represents an increase of ₡92.025 billion (US$200,1 million) compared to the previous semester, equivalent to a 5,68% increase.
However, the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC) itself cautions that this data should not be automatically interpreted as indicating increased household debt. The balance only reflects the credit used and outstanding at the end of the period, and its variation may be due to seasonal factors, exchange rate fluctuations, changes in credit limits, or refinancing strategies. “On its own, this indicator does not allow us to conclude that households are more indebted ,” the report states.
Growth in the number of cards and available offer
The study, compiled using data from public and private banks, cooperatives, and other financial issuers, reveals that there were 3.183.825 credit cards in circulation , 173.186 more than in June 2025, representing a 5,7% increase. Of that total, 2.325.941 were primary cards and 857.884 were additional cards. Meanwhile, the range of products offered decreased by 23,7%: 363 different types of cards were identified, compared to 476 in the previous six months.
Regarding financial conditions, current annual interest rates for credit cards in colones range from 3,7% to 36,6%, while those in dollars range from 3,7% to 30,4%. None exceed the maximum limit set by the Central Bank of Costa Rica under the Law Against Usury. Furthermore, none of the 363 card types charge an initial membership fee, and 354 do not apply an annual fee. Only two issuers charge a renewal fee, with amounts of $10 and $20. More than half of the cards charge fees for cash withdrawals, and 299 offer between 15 and 30 days to pay the balance in full without incurring interest.
Debit cards: more plastic, but with nuances
The report also analyzes the debit card market. At the close of 2025, 7.450.701 cards had been issued , a 6,72% increase compared to the previous six months (469.265 additional cards). Of these, 7.295.422 were primary cards and 155.279 were additional cards. However, the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC) clarifies that this figure includes canceled, expired, inactive, or unused cards, and therefore does not necessarily reflect the number of cards in active use.
A total of 329 types of debit cards were identified, 4,44% more than in the previous report. Regarding costs, 150 types do not charge an opening fee, while the rest apply fees ranging from $1 to 5.000 colones (approximately $10,87). 196 types do not charge a renewal fee , although some institutions apply fees of up to 6.000 colones ($13,04). Only 16 types of debit cards charge an annual fee, with rates ranging from $10 to 6.000 colones. Public banks continue to offer five free monthly ATM withdrawals, while at private banks and cooperatives, fees for withdrawals at other banks' ATMs range from $1 to $5.
Given this situation, the MEIC (Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce) recommends that consumers carefully compare interest rates, renewal costs, cash withdrawal fees, and payment terms before signing up for a credit card. It also advises regularly reviewing account statements, using credit responsibly, and analyzing the terms and conditions of each financial product to make informed decisions and avoid excessive use of financing. The key is to be well-informed and not be swayed solely by the initial offer , the agency concludes.
