Moving to Costa Rica & Buying Real Estate

General Information

Why move to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica offers a high quality of life, stunning natural beauty, a stable democracy, and a low cost of living compared to North America and Europe. It is known for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle, excellent healthcare, and welcoming expatriate community.

What is the cost of living in Costa Rica?

The cost of living varies by location. Rural and beach towns are more affordable, while cities like San José can be pricier. A couple can live comfortably on $2,500–$4,000 per month, depending on lifestyle.

Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica

Can foreigners own property in Costa Rica?

Yes! Foreigners have the same property ownership rights as Costa Ricans. The only exception is beachfront concession land, which has different regulations.

What are the steps to buying property in Costa Rica?

  1. Find a reputable real estate agent – Work with an experienced professional who understands local laws.
  2. Hire a real estate attorney – A lawyer will help with due diligence and ensure legal security.
  3. Make an offer and sign a purchase agreement – This outlines the terms of sale.
  4. Conduct due diligence – Verify property titles, zoning, and any potential liens.
  5. Close the deal – Transfer funds and sign the final transfer deed at a notary public.

What are property taxes in Costa Rica?

Property taxes are low, typically around 0.25% of the registered property value per year.

Can I get a mortgage in Costa Rica?

Local banks offer mortgages to foreigners, but the requirements can be strict and interest rates are very high. Many expats choose to finance through private lenders or purchase with cash.

Immigration & Residency

Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?

Many nationalities, including U.S., Canadian, and EU passport holders, can enter Costa Rica visa-free for up to 180 days.

How do I become a resident of Costa Rica?

There are several residency options:

  • Pensionado (Retiree Residency): Requires proof of $1,000/month income from a pension.
  • Rentista Residency: Making a $60,000US deposit in a bank account so that this bank guarantees to transfer to you $2,500/month income for at least two years. The bank doesn´t have to be a Costa Rican bank but they have to send you the $2,500US every month to an account in Costa Rica and you have to exchange that money into Colones
  • Investor Residency: Requires a minimum investment of $150,000 in real estate or a business.
  • Work Residency: Generally, work permits are difficult to obtain unless you have a specialized skill.

Can I work in Costa Rica as a foreigner?

Unless you obtain a work permit or residency status allowing employment, you cannot legally work for a Costa Rican employer. Many expats start their own businesses or work remotely.

Healthcare & Insurance

How is the healthcare system in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has both public (Caja) and private healthcare. The public system is affordable but has longer wait times, while private care is high-quality and more accessible but costly.

 

 

Do I need health insurance?

You have to have the public health insurance if you want a resident visa in Costa Rica, Pivate health insurance is recommended. Many expats use international health insurance or join local plans such as INS or Blue Cross Costa Rica.

Banking & Finances

Can I open a bank account in Costa Rica?

Yes, but requirements vary. Some banks require residency, while others allow non-residents to open accounts with a valid passport and proof of address.

What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The local currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, most major establishments accept credit cards, but cash is preferred in small towns and rural areas.

Living in Costa Rica

What are the best places for expats to live?

Popular expat destinations include:

  • San José & Central Valley (Escazú, Santa Ana) – Urban conveniences with great healthcare.
  • Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Nosara, Playas del Coco) – Beach towns with a strong expat community.
  • Southern Zone (Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal) – Lush landscapes and a quieter lifestyle.
  • Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita) – Laid-back, tropical vibes.

Is Costa Rica safe?

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America, but petty theft can be an issue. Taking standard precautions, like securing valuables and being aware of surroundings, is advised.

What is the climate like?

Costa Rica has a tropical climate with a dry season (Dec–April) and a rainy season (May–Nov). The Central Valley has a mild climate, while coastal areas are hotter and more humid.

Final Tips

  • Learn some basic Spanish to navigate daily life more easily.
  • Always consult an attorney when buying property.
  • Visit and explore different regions before deciding where to settle.
  • Join expat communities for support and advice.

Moving to Costa Rica is an exciting adventure—enjoy the journey and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle!

 

Toggle title

Moving to Costa Rica & Buying Real Estate

General Information

Why move to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica offers a high quality of life, stunning natural beauty, a stable democracy, and a low cost of living compared to North America and Europe. It is known for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle, excellent healthcare, and welcoming expatriate community.

What is the cost of living in Costa Rica?

The cost of living varies by location. Rural and beach towns are more affordable, while cities like San José can be pricier. A couple can live comfortably on $2,500–$4,000 per month, depending on lifestyle.

Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica

Can foreigners own property in Costa Rica?

Yes! Foreigners have the same property ownership rights as Costa Ricans. The only exception is beachfront concession land, which has different regulations.

What are the steps to buying property in Costa Rica?

  1. Find a reputable real estate agent – Work with an experienced professional who understands local laws.
  2. Hire a real estate attorney – A lawyer will help with due diligence and ensure legal security.
  3. Make an offer and sign a purchase agreement – This outlines the terms of sale.
  4. Conduct due diligence – Verify property titles, zoning, and any potential liens.
  5. Close the deal – Transfer funds and sign the final transfer deed at a notary public.

What are property taxes in Costa Rica?

Property taxes are low, typically around 0.25% of the registered property value per year.

Can I get a mortgage in Costa Rica?

Local banks offer mortgages to foreigners, but the requirements can be strict and interest rates are very high. Many expats choose to finance through private lenders or purchase with cash.

Immigration & Residency

Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?

Many nationalities, including U.S., Canadian, and EU passport holders, can enter Costa Rica visa-free for up to 180 days.

How do I become a resident of Costa Rica?

There are several residency options:

  • Pensionado (Retiree Residency): Requires proof of $1,000/month income from a pension.
  • Rentista Residency: Making a $60,000US deposit in a bank account so that this bank guarantees to transfer to you $2,500/month income for at least two years. The bank doesn´t have to be a Costa Rican bank but they have to send you the $2,500US every month to an account in Costa Rica and you have to exchange that money into Colones
  • Investor Residency: Requires a minimum investment of $150,000 in real estate or a business.
  • Work Residency: Generally, work permits are difficult to obtain unless you have a specialized skill.

Can I work in Costa Rica as a foreigner?

Unless you obtain a work permit or residency status allowing employment, you cannot legally work for a Costa Rican employer. Many expats start their own businesses or work remotely.

Healthcare & Insurance

How is the healthcare system in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has both public (Caja) and private healthcare. The public system is affordable but has longer wait times, while private care is high-quality and more accessible but costly.

 

 

Do I need health insurance?

You have to have the public health insurance if you want a resident visa in Costa Rica, Pivate health insurance is recommended. Many expats use international health insurance or join local plans such as INS or Blue Cross Costa Rica.

Banking & Finances

Can I open a bank account in Costa Rica?

Yes, but requirements vary. Some banks require residency, while others allow non-residents to open accounts with a valid passport and proof of address.

What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The local currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, most major establishments accept credit cards, but cash is preferred in small towns and rural areas.

Living in Costa Rica

What are the best places for expats to live?

Popular expat destinations include:

  • San José & Central Valley (Escazú, Santa Ana) – Urban conveniences with great healthcare.
  • Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Nosara, Playas del Coco) – Beach towns with a strong expat community.
  • Southern Zone (Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal) – Lush landscapes and a quieter lifestyle.
  • Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita) – Laid-back, tropical vibes.

Is Costa Rica safe?

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America, but petty theft can be an issue. Taking standard precautions, like securing valuables and being aware of surroundings, is advised.

What is the climate like?

Costa Rica has a tropical climate with a dry season (Dec–April) and a rainy season (May–Nov). The Central Valley has a mild climate, while coastal areas are hotter and more humid.

Final Tips

  • Learn some basic Spanish to navigate daily life more easily.
  • Always consult an attorney when buying property.
  • Visit and explore different regions before deciding where to settle.
  • Join expat communities for support and advice.

Moving to Costa Rica is an exciting adventure—enjoy the journey and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle!