Temporary residence:

There are five general categories of acquiring a temporary residence in Costa Rica, which have been listed below.

1. Temporary Residency for a Retiree
2. Temporary residency for students, researchers, teachers, and internships
3. Temporary Residency for Executives, Managers, Representatives, and Technical Personnel and their dependents
4. Temporary Residency for Rentiers
5. Temporary Residency for Spouse

Let us have a look at the requirements for obtaining a Temporary Residency for people belonging to each of these categories individually.

1. Temporary Residency for Retiree:

People can apply for this type of residency at the Immigration Office of Costa Rica. Given below are the requirements for applying to this type of temporary residency in Costa Rica.

1. Lifetime Pension is offered by a capable authority, which indicates that the person will be receiving an amount of more than $1,000 per month in the form of pension.

This certification should be properly legalized and authenticated or apostilled if it has been issued abroad.

1. The dependents of the foreigner can also be included so they can reside in Costa Rica, who can either be spouses or children (under the age of 25 years or having any disabilities).

Under these circumstances, a spouse must provide a marriage certificate and children with disabilities should provide a medical certificate.

2.        Temporary residency for students, researchers, teachers, and internships:

People can apply for this type of residency at the Immigration Office of Costa Rica. Given below are the requirements for applying to this type of temporary residency in Costa Rica.

1. Students should provide a letter of acceptance that has been obtained from the educational institution, which should be properly signed by either a legal representative or the director of the educational institution.

Students should also provide certification regarding their economic status, which has been obtained from an authorized accountant, and it should describe the details stating the source of funds.

If the source of funds for the student is a scholarship, then certification describing the amount, timeframe, and expenses should be provided by the institution.

Students under the age of 18 years, who intend to stay without their parents in Costa Rica should provide Special Power of Attorney by parents or legal guardians, which is properly legalized or authenticated to apostille.

1. A properly legalized job offer letter should be provided by teachers and researchers.

1. People who belong to the category of volunteers or interns should provide a letter from the respective program, which is signed by the legal representative.

This letter should consist of the details related to the volunteer/internship project, financing details, and the information related to the person’s stay in Costa Rica.

3.        Temporary Residency for Executives, Managers, Representatives, and Technical Personnel and their dependents

People can apply for this type of residency at the Immigration Office of Costa Rica. Given below are the requirements for applying to this type of temporary residency in Costa Rica.

1. A properly legalized and annotated certified document describing the bond from the person’s country of origin should be provided if the spouse of children of that person intends to stay.

1. Employees should provide a copy of the work contract concerning the fundamentals in articles 23 and 24 of the labor code.

This should describe the monthly salary and this salary should be raised 25% regarding the legal minimum salary of that particular position.

1. Executives and managers should provide certification that has been signed by the legal representative of the contracted company.
   
   

This certification should ensure that the person will work for that company and should also consist of details regarding the person’s position, the period they spend in the country, and the monthly salary.

1. The respective insurance company should provide certification stating that the company is up to date concerning the coverage fees of work risks or proof that the pay is up to date and is appropriately certified or in correspondence with the original.

• Legal representatives of the company or society should present certification, which has been provided within one month between the date of issuance and the date when the person applies for temporary residence.

• A certified copy from the company stating the constitutional protocol or the original document along with a copy that can be handled by a public official.

• Proof ensuring that the company or society has been paying all the necessary taxes until now.

• Certification of income issued by an authorized Public Accountant along with a balance sheet.

1. The person who is working with the company (registered with the General Management) should meet with criteria mentioned in the corporate regulations.

4. Temporary Residency for Rentiers:

1. Document ensuring that the person has been receiving a stable and permanent monthly rental income of at least USD 2,500 or the amount equivalent to it in colones.

This certificate should have been issued at least 3 months before the application.

If the income is received from abroad, the document determining this information should be apostilled.

1. The dependents of the foreigner can also be included so they can reside in Costa Rica, who can either be spouses or children (under the age of 25 years or having any disabilities).

Under these circumstances, a spouse must provide a marriage certificate and children with disabilities should provide a medical certificate.

All the documents should be legalized and apostilled properly while applying from abroad.

5. Temporary Residency for Spouse:

People can apply for this type of residency at the Immigration Office of Costa Rica. Given below are the requirements for applying to this type of temporary residency in Costa Rica.

1. Marriage certificate, concerning the Costa Rican national, which has been issued by the Costa Rican Civil Registry.

If the marriage didn’t take place in Costa Rica, then it should have been properly registered in Costa Rica.

Common Documentation:

Regardless of the category, all the people who are applying for temporary residency in Costa Rica should provide the following documentation.

• Request Letter. This letter should contain information regarding the reasons why you are applying for a temporary residency in Costa Rica.

• The letter should consist of information such as Full Name, Nationality, Information related to Occupation, Age, Current Address, and either the place or means through which the individual can receive notifications.

• This letter should either be signed by an immigration officer or through a public notary.

• Two recent passport-sized photos

• Two types of payments must be made. First, a payment of $50 should be deposited in the form of colones in the account 242480-0 of Bank of Costa Rica (Banco de Costa Rica).

Secondly, payment of $1.25 and $2.50 per page, which have been presented within the request for residency. In both cases, the applicant’s name should be indicated as the depositor.

• A form that has been filled and signed accordingly.

• Proof of fingerprint registration, which has been issued by the Ministry of Public Safety, is only a requirement for individuals older than 12 years of age.

• Proof of consular registration, which has been issued by the respective consulate in Costa Rica.

• Birth certificate, which has been issued in the person’s country of origin within the previous 6 months and is appropriately legalized and annotated.

• A legalized and annotated certificate related to a person’s criminal record obtained from their country of origin (or country of current residence for the past three years).

To ensure this certificate, the legality of the person’s stay in that country should also be provided additionally, which is a certified copy of the mitigatory document acquired within the indicted term.

• Photocopy of all the pages in a passport, which should be certified and compared concerning the original, and this should be done by the official who received them or with the help of a public notary.

The process of applying:

• First of all, make sure that you have all the necessary documents ready.

• While getting the documents ready, you must also make sure that the documents are accurate and are up to date. Most of the documents should not be longer than some specific timeframes.

• Gather all the necessary documentation and submit the application to the Platform of Services of the central offices of the Department of Immigration, or else, you can go to the regional offices.

• While submitting, you must mention to the respective officer that it is the first time you are applying for residency.

• In general, the official will provide you with a receipt, which means you are assisted by them, and inform you about the place where you have to go next.

• Wait until the indicated time and then attend the place mentioned by the official. Then, provide all the documents to the respective official at that place, and then the documents will be reviewed and entered into the system.

• The official who assists you will provide you with a paper that shows your personal information, file number, and the documents that have been provided by you. You should make sure that all information provided by you is accurate by checking that paper.

• After this process, the department will take around 90 days to let you know about their decision.

• If any of the necessary documents are missing, then you will be provided with a time of 10 days to submit the missing documents.

• In case you need more than 10 days to provide the missing documents, you should submit a request (written) within that deadline for extending the timeframe.

• After three months, the answer regarding your residency would be provided through fax (if you provided it), or else, you should reach the Platform of Services in person and contact the receptionist regarding your application status.

Residency through Investment:

Apart from the general options available, individuals can also obtain residency in Costa Rica by making an investment. Earlier, individuals were required to invest an amount of $200,000 in qualifying projects to obtain this type of residency.

However, this amount has been reduced to $150,000 recently, which sounds good to the people who want to gain residency in Costa Rica and be able to afford this amount.

Additionally, people can also get residency by investing $100,000 in projects related to forestry in Costa Rica.

1. Starting a New Business

People can invest an amount of $150,000 in a new business, which can be a hotel, restaurant, factory, service company, or any other type of business, and become eligible for this type of residency program.

People who want to acquire residency through this method should come up with a good business plan and because of that, most people don’t opt for this method.

• Investing in an Existing Business

People can invest an amount of $150,000 in an existing business, which can either be buying off the entire business or buying a part of that business.

Buying a part of a business means that you will be buying a bunch of stocks or shares of an existing company.

There are no specific requirements regarding the type of business or the number of shares, as long as you invest an amount of $150,000 in an existing business.

• Real Estate/Vehicles:

In this category, you must have real estate and/or vehicles worth $200,000 in Costa Rica, which can be a farm, house, condo, lot, or vehicles (means of transport through land, sea, or air).

You will be allowed to bring over vehicles (cars, motorcycles, boats, helicopters, etc.), furniture, appliances, etc., without having to pay any sort of taxes.

However, the value of the property, properties, vehicles, or a combination of these should add up to a minimum of $150,000.

• Forestry Projects:

You can also get residency if you invest a minimum of $100,000 in a forestry project such as lumbering, preservation, regeneration, etc. However, you should acquire the necessary permits from the environmental agency (SETENA) and the local municipality.

The investments in forestry projects should be held for at least 3 years before a person can be able to apply for permanent residency or withdraw their investment.

There are some specific timeframes regarding these residency permits i.e., the number of days that a person has to stay in Costa Rica as a requirement for acquiring the residency status.

Permanent residence:

In most cases, the permanent residence status can be obtained after two years as a temporary resident, yet it differs for the investment made in the forestry projects (3 years).

In general, the process of acquiring permanent residency is unrestricted, and people can continue their work in Costa Rica during the process.

The citizens of Spain can apply for permanent residence status instantly. The people who gain permanent residence status should visit Costa Rica at least once a year.

The number of days needed to stay in Costa Rica as a Permanent Resident may vary by the time you read this article.

This permanent residency should be renewed after every five years. An amount of $300 should be deposited as a guarantee, which should be deposited to the Government of Costa Rica.

After seven years of staying in Costa Rica, a person becomes eligible for applying for the process of naturalization.

Bottom Line:

All the information provided in this article is accurate by the time of writing, yet there is a possibility that it may vary by the time you are reading it.

Also, you must know all the details accurately before you apply for a visa or residency in Costa Rica. Even a small mistake during the application process can result in extra charges or result in a waste of time.

Having said that, we hope that you were able to find this information useful during the process of applying for a visa or residence.

That being said, if you need any services related to obtaining a passport or visa in another country, we might be able to assist you with the relevant services.

If you need any services related to wealth management or financial planning, then you can avail yourself of the top-notch financial services offered by us. Click here.

You can even learn the fine art of investing so that you can be able to take care of your investments by yourself. For that, click here.

You can also get access to our mobile application and get all the financial services you need from the comfort of your mobile phone.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance, and mortgages, you can contact me here.  

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

There are many ways to relocate to Costa Rica as of 2021. According to the Embassy of Costa Rica, you can enter the country in different ways. For example, you can enter Costa Rica through tourist, temporary/permanent visa or temporary resident, study visa, a permit for working, and many more.

With a population of over five million people, Costa Rica still have enough places to accommodate expats from different countries. Unlike other Central American countries, Costa Rica has a very high literacy rate of 98 percent with an excellent education system. And you’ll be amazed at the cultural diversity here.

Now, what exactly inspired you to move to Costa Rica? Well, as thousands of expats will tell you, Costa Rica offers a fantastic lifestyle! Of course, it’s no doubt as the country is even one of the beautiful places to visit in the world. But, you’ll have to understand the immigration process before planning to move.

Surprisingly, many locals speak English, and you don’t have to worry about learning the country’s language. There’s a low crime rate, good healthcare facilities, and enormous tax advantages you can enjoy as an expat. No matter where you move to in Costa Rica, you’ll never regret the kind of lifestyle there.

In this article, we will walk you through the process of moving to Costa Rica. Previously, we highlighted the fun facts of living in Costa Rica, and we took time to discuss why Costa Rica remains the best place for vacation. Today, we’ve compiled everything needed to move to this country. Read further to check!

Why Moving To Costa Rica Today?

As for me, I’ve had the travel bug to travel abroad at an early stage. In fact, I wanted to find a country that has an easy pathway to residency. Lucky enough, Costa Rica does have three different ways to obtain its residency, and I was qualified for one of them. So, why do you think moving to Costa Rica is the best? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered for the best reasons. Take a look at it below.

Investment Opportunities in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a country where you’ll find many investment opportunities. It’s home to several multinational companies that have chosen to boost its economic and political stability. Besides, the possibility of getting highly educated labor is a plus because the country is highly competitive when it comes to communication, technology, and internet facilities.

Country’s Life Expectancy

Costa Rica, in no doubt, has the highest life expectancy in Central America. Aside from that, it holds the second position in Latin America and the third in the entire American continent. Also, the country has a blue zone where some people live measurably longer lives. Perhaps, it’s a home to warm weather, a better quality of life, and beautiful beaches.

Affordable Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare facilities in Costa Rica are not only of the best quality but also relatively inexpensive. This makes expat enjoy world-class care such as dental work, surgeries, and skin treatment at a reasonable price. Moreover, it’s better to get a portable international health insurance plan that will cover your expense in the country and even when you visit your home country.

Healthy Lifestyle and Stable Government

Eating less processed foods and more and using your body to achieve more tasks are all changes that’d take place in Costa Rica. Not only that, but as the country abolished its army in 1950, the country’s economy has been stable. Also, they are experiencing steady growth with more significant foreign investment.

Generous and Kind Local Culture

Ticos have been known as one of the most hospitable, peace-oriented, and nature-loving on earth. They love their country and also welcome expats who would love to reside in the country. Aside from this fact, it’s also prevalent for families to be multicultural with local Costa Rican and foreigners.

Experiencing Outdoor Adventure

With endless hiking trails, excellent swells for surfers, and white water rafting, Costa Rica is a destination for adventure lovers.  In Costa Rica, a simple walk on nearby beaches could contribute to an adventure. While exploring the outdoor adventures, the Pura Vida lifestyle will make you enjoy the city.

Exploring Tropical Weather

If you’re worried that a mere thunderstorm could wreck your weekend, you shouldn’t. This is because; the Costa Rica weather stays warm throughout the year, except for some microclimates. The dry season occurs between December and April, while you should expect the rainy season to be in May and November.

Visa Eligibility to Costa Rica in 2021

Have you ever asked yourself, do I need a visa or what kind of visa am I eligible for? According to Costa Rica Embassy, many types of visas could make you win Costa Rican citizenship. For citizens of the U.S, Canada, and most European nations do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica. Moreover, there are varieties of visas to enter the country. Let’s quickly take a look at the type of visa and its eligibility.

Who Should Apply For Costa Rica Visa?

Costa Rica may not be easy as you think, depending on what country you’re from. Before we discuss the visa types in Costa Rica, it’s essential to know the Costa Rica visa policy. They include the following.

●      Visa-exempt nationals that are allowed to travel to Costa Rica with a valid passport. This category includes the citizens of the U.S and members of the European unions. Meanwhile, these nationals are allowed to stay in Costa Rica for a maximum of ninety days.

●      Visa-exempt nationals who are allowed to visit the country with just their passport, valid for at least three months from the exact date of arrival. This set of nationals are allowed to stay in the country for a maximum of thirty days.

●      Foreign nationals who need a Costa Rica consular visa are allowed to apply for a visa. They must apply for this visa application in their country of residence. Meanwhile, the visa policy allows the emigrants to stay for up to thirty days in the country.

●      Foreign nationals who need a Costa Rica restricted visa, which has to be approved by the Commission of Restricted visas. If this visa is approved, it allows the holders to stay in the country for up to thirty days.

2021 Costa Rica Visa Requirements

Due to the global coronavirus pandemic, the Costa Rica government has strict regulations for visa applicants. However, if you’re traveling to the country from South America and sub-Saharan Africa, you’ll need to get the Yellow Fever vaccine. Also, you must have a returning ticket to exit Costa Rica.

2021 Entry Requirements

Visa Exempt Countries – Please keep in mind that while you’re applying for this visa, you must have the following documents to make your immigration process easy.

• Hold a valid passport for at least six months before you exit your home country
• Ensure you have proof of onward and return flight tickets
• Hold documents indicating your travel purpose and your next destination
• Show proof of sufficient funds to immigration officers and your intended length of stay
• It is recommended that you confirm with your airline whether boarding will be permitted without a visa

Tourist Application Requirements – For a tourist application visa, please keep in mind that the following documents are required.

• An application letter directed to the Costa Rica consulate indicating your personal information
• Proof of intended date of arrival and departure from home country
• Contact information, signature, and place of residence
• A complete photocopies of all pages on your passport and return flight ticket reservation
• Two recent pictures of yourself with a white background
• Evidence of yellow fever vaccination

Keys Facts to Know About Moving To Costa Rica

This section of our guide will help you prepare and understand the key facts before moving to Costa Rica. Expat should read it carefully because it will help you through your journey to the country. We took time to include tips on getting your visa ready and more. Below are the facts to know about Costa Rica.

Finding Accommodation in Costa Rica

I’ll tell you that finding accommodation in Costa Rica can be challenging and also accessible at the same time. This is because; foreigners have all the right to own a house just like the citizens. Nonetheless, this difficulty comes from competing with other expats to get the right tropical home.

So, whether you want to know how to rent a house in Costa Rica or you’re looking for a second home to spend your retirement, we’ve covered such information in our previous guides on living in Costa Rica.

Healthcare System and Public Insurance Terms

As aforementioned, the healthcare system in Costa Rica remains one of the best in the world. While the country has been ranked consistently among the 20^th percentile of the top country healthcare system, the healthcare system here cannot be overemphasized. Meanwhile, if you’re not interested in the country’s public health, you can opt for private healthcare, in addition to helping you in the long run.

Banks and Taxes in Costa Rica

These are just some of the points we have mentioned in our previous article about living in Costa Rica in this twenty-first century. Knowing how to open an account is quite vital for non-Costa Rica residents. A local account can help you avoid colossal currency exchange rates. With your bank account, you can quickly set up withdrawals for things like Wi-Fi bills, cell phones, utilities, and many more.

Costa Rica Educational Service

Are you thinking of enrolling in a post-graduate degree program in Costa Rica? Most expats who choose this route will need to find the right international institutions located in the country. Whether you’re interested in local or international schools, Costa Rica education has been ranked highly among the world’s outstanding schools.

Working in Costa Rica 2021

Do you wish to work in Costa Rica? Given the number of expats in this country, it greatly emphasizes hiring emigrants even more than the residents. That being said, getting a job is relatively easy for skilled expats. Explore self-employment guide and Costa Rica recruitment platform to know more.

Living in Costa Rica (2021)

Living in Costa Rica can be overwhelming if you don’t follow the proper procedures. In fact, it may even be tiring if you find it difficult to speak the English language. Aside from this, you can enjoy and explore other adventures, including laidback vacation, vibrant forest scenery, a relaxing day by the beach, and others.

Moving Your Pet to Costa Rica

As of June 2021, there are no quarantines for pets arriving in this country. So, bringing your pet to Costa Rica is relatively easy. However, a rabies vaccination is required for pets that enter the country, and it must be administered in not more than thirty days of departure.

Average Salaries and Wages in Costa Rica (2021)

As an expat, your experience level is an essential factor in determining your salary. Naturally, the more years of experience you have, the higher the pay. But generally speaking, employees that have more than two years of experience earn an average of 32 percent more than fresher or junior staff without relevant years of experience.

This section will describe the minimum and average salaries of different professions in Costa Rica. This way, you’ll learn about the country’s economic prospects and job seeker’s requirements. More so, living in Costa Rica is more affordable than in the United States of America. Let’s quickly take a look at the salary.

Specialized workers like computer technicians can earn up to $30,000 a year, while unskilled labor could likely earn up to $3 per hour. The table below shows the average minimum wages for various levels of skills and qualifications.

Business Cultures and Etiquette

While Costa Rica is a part of the Central American region, there are points of differentiation to the country’s working cultures. Despite the differences, Ticos are globally known for being friendly, relaxed, and peaceful. So, they appreciate modesty and humility in their business cultures.

Furthermore, your earnings are confidential, and you shouldn’t explain them in detail to any third-party except your employer. Besides, do not exaggerate and try not to talk directly about how much you’re making; it is directly requested when you’re in a board meeting with other executives.

Be Patient – Work Culture

Being patient is one factor that you’ll need when doing business in Costa Rica.  This is because; there might be a high level of bureaucracy in some public institutions. Therefore, it’s essential to follow legal procedures and be patient to avoid delays and complications in the long run.

Business Talk (Etiquette)

If you’re dealing with someone new (either an employer or any public servant), be prepared to establish a relationship to avoid various encounters before closing the deal. Sometimes, Costa Rican can be curious and when they ask you questions, always find the right solution to defend your skills.

Importance of Networking in Costa Rica (2021)

Always know that networking is not just about trading information but could also contribute to your professional success. For many individuals, the cause has primarily been attributed to the strong networking channels. Here are some reasons why networking should be essential if you want to build a career in Costa Rica.

Networking is an Avenue to Change Ideas

You never can tell how much listening to others largely contributed to the pool of information. When networks have been created, they broaden your horizon and allow you to explore the opportunities available beyond your physical or geographical circles.

Helps to Shift From Introverts to Extroverts

Your personality trait makes a massive shift when you start working in Costa Rica. The result is that it allows you to shift from an introvert to become an extrovert. In this case, you can easily create a friendly relationship with people around you.

Psychological Impact of Networking

Another important of networking is to have a psychological impact on your approach to mental well-being.  This means that you must constantly fight to stay ahead of any cultural heritage, not to get confused. Besides, you can inquire about the psychological aspect of the working environment you choose.

Essential Skills to Work in Costa Rica

Getting suitable employment in Costa Rica isn’t as easy as being said. The country doesn’t hire many foreign nationals except the ones that are highly skilled and educated. Despite these truths, Costa Rica is among the best places for expat. Now, let’s look at the essentials skills needed to secure a job in Costa Rica.

1.    Networking Skills

There are different online job pools and other modern ways to find employment opportunities in Costa Rica. In fact, traditional networking is also a great way to connect with employers. However, being part of an association or participating in a professional event is very important to secure jobs in the country.

2.    Skills Matching Your Profile

It may not be easy for foreigners to get jobs because of government protection. Multinational companies typically hire candidates from the country’s workforce or relocate emigrants with relevant skills. More so, there are opportunities to teach English as a foreign language. Moreover, opportunities could lie in Costa Rica for the following positions.

• Administrative assistants/receptionist
• Technicians/sales representatives
• IT personnel/skilled traders
• Engineer/secretaries
• Machine operators/laborers
• Finance staff/production operators
• Driver/technical skills

Strong Personal Skills

Aside from having the skills that match your profile, soft skills and specialized technical skills will help you when looking for jobs in Costa Rica. Some of the vital skills that can help you through include team collaboration, service orientation, critical thinking skills, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and many others, to mention a few.

Best Places to Live In Costa Rica

Since Costa Rica is known to have natural wonders, spending your retirement years with family and friends will be a better option. You can hike a volcano, relax in thermal waters, and even snorkel through the world beneath the sea. Consider these factors; there are many places to live. Check it out below.

Montezuma Coast

Montezuma is a quiet spot at the Southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. The beaches in this environment are sandy and are backed up by the dense jungle. Aside from this fact, Montezuma also boasts of having rivers and natural swimming pools. This way, it’s a great choice if you’re planning a retirement lifestyle.

La Fortuna in Costa Rica

La Fortuna, located in Costa Rica’s northern highlands, is among the best place to visit. On this Coast, one of the best places to visit is the Arenal Volcano. Also, you’ll enjoy hiking trails that follow ancient lava flows. Aside from this fact, living here allow you to enjoy regular drips in the rustic hand-made stone pools.

Cartago Province

Cartago is the former capital of Costa Rica, and it’s one of the oldest towns in the country. This was partially destroyed in 1823, but thanks to the eruption of Costa Rica’s tallest active volcano. Nowadays, this place has become a historic town filled with local people and emigrants.

Santa Ana (Costa Rica)

Living in San Jose can be busy and not relatively the life that you want. As an expat, Santa Ana is considerable as it’s an affluent suburb in the foothills. This town is just about 15 minutes outside of San Jose. As of today, it has a total population amounting to 11 500. This way, you will enjoy the town as a foreigner moving to the country for the first time.

Conclusion

There are a few ways to move to Costa Rica as an emigrant. No matter where you move, it’s crucial to have a job. Meanwhile, by exploring Costa Rica before you move, you’re contributing to making your relocation easy. And you’ll likely get the visa without deportation by the immigration service. For more information regarding Costa Rica, follow us on this platform.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here.  

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

For decades, Costa Rica has been one of the major destinations for retirement. You’ll find expat and welcoming citizens in this country. It’s easy to make friends, and you can explore the city while watching the sunset from a beach. And, you don’t have to speak Spanish to communicate with the people.

With so much choice, picking Costa Rica as a place to live gives endless joy. Besides, you’re going to find things like North American-style amenities, better schools, and more paved roads. These are the sort of things you might not find in other countries. So, what exactly do you think made this nation wonderful?

Of course, the government makes it easy for foreigners to live and do business in the country. Not only that, but you don’t even have to be a resident of the country to buy or do things on your own. Although a work visa can be quite challenging but you’ll definitely enjoy the process in the long run.

More so, this tropical paradise is popular for study and entertainment. With its surfable beaches, abundant wildlife, the benefits of living in this country cannot be overemphasized. That way, we’ve compiled this guide to help you through the process of moving to Costa Rica without disturbance.

Again, Costa Rica is where many expats have been enticed to relocate. Thanks to its cultural diversity, tropical weather, hundreds of pristine beaches, amazing biodiversity, and the best way of life. In case you’ve been looking for the right platform to get the right details about Costa Rica, worry less as you’ve landed on the best one.

What Expat Need to Know About Costa Rica

If you ask me, why Costa Rica precisely? My answer would be – the best economic growth in recent years, a continued commitment to peaceful rule, English is widely spoken in several communities, and observing conservative traditions. Is that the reason why expats do travel to this country?

The answer is NO! There’s a lot to explore and like about this country. In fact, you can never go wrong with taking a vacation in Costa Rica. Expats who have traveled to this country will tell you that living is quite expensive compared to other Latin American nations. But, this isn’t the first thing to consider.

However, it’s easy to find tons of articles about living in Costa Rica. On the other hand, it isn’t easy to find the right information. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore whatever you see on other blogs. We’ve just stood out to create good information from a reliable source and expat in the country. Without further ado, let’s walk you through the things expat should know about this country.

1. Cultural Heritage and Differences

We understand that living in a country you’ve not been to can be challenging. However, you should always be prepared for cultural diversity since it’s not your home country. Patient is a virtue that you’ll need to cultivate while living in Costa Rica. Although they are fun, lovely but traditions may restrict you from certain things, which you’ll need to abide by.

Moreover, you’ll need to be more flexible with your schedule when you find yourself in Costa Rica. This is because; they have a blend of indigenous heritage and Spanish colonial influence. Aside from that, it’s a nation that’s proud to be without an army. Does that sound unique? Of course, it’s one thing that isn’t common.

2. Cost of Living In 2021

Expats who have traveled to other countries and have been here will tell you that Costa Rica is an expensive country.  According to the Big Mac Index published by Economics on an annual basis, living in Costa Rica is expensive. It is approximately $4.12 in 2020, which has surpassed that of Argentina and other countries.

With this in mind, you should know the upscale price of the places suitable for expat to reside. More than most places, the country strikes a balance that’s difficult to see in other Latin American countries. At every stage, you should plan to spend $1,100 for every tight budget.

Meanwhile, owning a car in this country will really drive up your costs. And the budgets mentioned above can only give you A/C on the hottest days. While you don’t have to live in Costa Rica feeling that you’ve exceeded your budget, the analysis below should not be ignored as it contains the cost of living.

3. Public Transportation in Costa Rica

The import taxes, cost of maintenance, and other charges do not seem to placate Ticos’ appetite for passenger vehicles today. In fact, this trend is transforming the country’s mass transportation into a daily gridlock. Besides, getting around by bus is one of the best ways to experience the country.

Aside from that, there’s an inter-province train system that connects parts of the greater Metropolitan Area. Meanwhile, buses, ferries and taxes are widely used throughout the country. Also, people love Uber, and it is available only in the Central Valley. Keep in mind that multiple buses in the cities don’t have air condition. In fact, you might also find yourself in a crowded area with few passengers.

However, drivers will occasionally let people stand and sit in the aisles while on the bus. So, if you’re taking taxis, ensure that they are officially red taxis with the yellow triangle on the side. At the same time, double checks that the taxi drivers start the meter on time while you pay attention to where you’re going.

4. Visa Applications in Costa Rica

It’s relatively easy for expat to move from Canada, United States, and other European Union countries to Costa Rica.  The same process applies to countries such as G20 member nations and Australia with good diplomatic relations with the country. Some of the visa categories include the following.

1. Visa for Non-Residents – The visa for non-resident is generally for people from the countries above. They are granted three-month visas at the port of entry without any request. Moreover, you can extend this visa automatically by leaving the country but doing this could prolong your stay.
2. Visa for Temporary Residents – The visa for temporary residents is quite similar to non-residents but different in some ways. It’s popular among expats who either receive a pension or have enough funds to live in Costa Rica for a couple of years. Also, if you have a stable income, you should upgrade your tourist visa to a temporary one.

Suitable Places to Live in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is not a large country, but you can definitely find a suitable place to live. Also, about half of the country consists of nature preserves, but you can also find low-density regions. We have listed about five countries that can accommodate expats. Without further ado, below are the suitable places.

1. The Central Valley (Soul of Costa Rica) – The central valley is the smack-dab in the country’s middle. It is also known as the heart and soul of Costa Rica, accommodating about 70 percent of the country’s population. Not only that, but the central valley is the home to the Great Metropolitan area of San Jose.
2. Guanacaste (Biodiverse parkland) – The Guanacaste province is the northwestern part of Costa Rica. This province is also known for its beaches and several parklands. Also, it is home to rare dry tropical forests and more than 250 bird species. Moreover, this expat town is awesome as they’re being known for affordable apartments.
3. The Occidental Region (Costa Rica) – If you’re willing to move a bit far away to the west, this is the best place. Also, you’ll find expats living in towns such as Grecia, Sarchi, and Atenas because it’s affordable. As long as you’re prepared to integrate with the locals, you’ll enjoy moving to such semi-rural areas.
4. The Southern Pacific – It’s no doubt that life is good in this town. It can also feel somehow isolated, but you’ll have to walk about 40 kilometers to San Isidro to get expats living around the communities. Once you heard south of Jaco Beach, you will find amazing such as Quepos and others in this town.
5. Rural Costa Rica Area – Rural Costa Rica are small cities in the mountain sand that are not far from the national parks. Here, you’ll experience coffee-growing regions near the Poas Volcano. Aside from that, the rural areas have traditionally attracted Italian ex-pats, which is a place for modest income in the country.

Interesting Facts About Costa Rica

Everything about the denomination of Costa Rican cash features a different landscape and animal. Aside from this fact, Costa Rica may surprise you with lots of breathtaking views. We’ve compiled a list of ten interesting facts that will not only make you want to pack your bags but will help you through the process.

Bananas Exporter in the World

As of 2021, Costa Rica has become the second-largest exporter of bananas in the world. With this in mind, you must eat some of those delicious local bananas. They grew and supplied one out of every ten bananas consumed globally. Besides, this banana industry is vital to the rural Rican communities.

Biggest Exporters of Coffee

Again, Costa Rica is one of the world’s biggest exporters of coffee. From hotel coffee to local shops coffee, you’ll enjoy having a taste of coffee in this country. However, it’s against the country’s law to produce any coffee other than 100 percent Arabica. Besides, it’s also illegal to produce anything else.

Home to Plenty of Beaches

In Costa Rica, you’ll find some of the best beaches. So, it’s better to work with a travel guide to recommend the ideal beach for your vacation. With about 800 miles of coastline, you’ll have no problem finding a place to relax with family and friends. That’s why you’ll need enough cash when you’re moving.

Costa Rican Renewable Energy

Costa Rica has its unique ways of producing energy without being invasive to the world’s ecosystem. That’s why you won’t be surprised that energy is created from alternative sources such as solar and geothermal energy, wind power, and hydroelectric power.

Country of No Army

In Costa Rica, police officers exist and are even in charge of controlling and avoiding illegal behaviors. Meanwhile, as of December 1^st, 2021, the country will mark the 73^rd year since it abolished its army. And they use the fund to solve other relevant problems in the country instead.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated four sites in Costa Rica for their universal cultural and natural value. The four sites include; Area de Conservacion Guanacaste, La Amistad National Park, Cocos Island National Park, and the Precolumbian Chefdom Settlements.

Happy Planet index Ranking

As aforementioned, Costa Rica has been ranked as number one in the Happy Planet Index. Although it comes as no surprise for the citizens but you should understand this fact when you’re planning your next relocation. To determine the overall happiness index, you can compare it with the United States.

Total Way of Life

Again, don’t be surprised that soccer is the way of life in Costa Rica. No matter how big or small a town is, you’ll definitely see a soccer field. This way, if you’re looking for a way to make friends, or interact with the locals, don’t be shy to join in during their weekly Sunday pickup game.

Living in Costa Rica

Research revealed that Costa Ricans enjoy long lives. At the age of 60, estimation shows that men can still survive for about 20 more years. This fact raises curiosity since life expectancy is usually linked to wealth. But in Costa Rica, healthcare is essential, and that’s why citizens enjoy longer lives.

Safety and Wellbeing

As an expatriate, you must know that you’ll be living in an area that cherishes the safety and wellness of its citizens. As one of the longest-reigning democratic states in Central America, this country is known for its functional government. Aside from that, the country is also known for its stable economy.

CONs of Living in Costa Rica

With a reliable and stable democracy, Costa Rica has positioned itself as an ideal emigration spot for retirees and other foreigners. Foreign residents have flocked to the country in a great number recently. However, the country has its Cons. Let’s quickly walk you through the cons of living in Costa Rica.

Immigration Laws and Regulations

Unless you’re a retired emigrant with a substantial investment portfolio or plan to open a business in Costa Rica, obtaining residency may belong and not be a fruitful process. Moreover, the easiest route to residency in Costa Rica is through rentisa programs, available for retirees.

High Crime Rate

Since the country doesn’t have an army, crime levels may be higher than what you’re used to experiencing. That’s why you’ll need to consider the amount you take with you every day. While the immigration system might have you following some rules, some people overstayed here.

Expensive Property

In Costa Rica, sales of properties are quite challenging and expensive. If you decide to leave your home or even relocate, it’s very hard to relocate, and you might lose money in the long run. This is because; real estate brokerage is somehow unregulated in the country. So, you might see a real estate property around the corner, and you’ll see everyone trying to save money to buy it.

Not Suitable for Tech Person

If you’re a tech person, Costa Rica is not the ideal country for you. Besides, if you’ve been living in countries such as Canada, and the United States, you might have been spoiled with lightning-speed internet and high-quality smartphones. But in Costa Rica, many of the citizens don’t own a computer.

Public National Holidays in Costa Rica

Aside from the public holidays mentioned above, many others include the December solstice, Christmas day celebration, independent day (13^th September), and more. You can discover upcoming public holidays and start planning to make your relocation work during or within the holidays.

Cost of Moving to Costa Rica in 2021

Thousand of expats are moving to Costa Rica from Germany, Canada, the USA, and other countries to work and live with their families. Through our guide, you can organize a smooth relocation to Costa Rica at the lowest cost. This way, we’ve prepared you a brief guide on how to move to Costa Rica with ease.

Meanwhile, it’s fairly expensive to move to Costa Rica. But, if you find yourself there, living can be affordable. The process is easy, but there are few unique challenges you may face if you’re not prepared. A good example is relocating with pets as they’ll need a proper vaccination.

Other challenges may be as a result of covid-19 rules and regulations. This includes a proper quarantine period and many other procedures you’ll need to go through. The country also offers many types of visa applications, and of course, the total costs for each range around 226,400 CRC (400 USD).

Applying for the Costa Rican Visa (2021)

The eligibility to apply for Costa Rican visa depends on your specific case. The visa types include work visa, business visa, family visa, self-employment visa, temporary residence permit, and many more. Let’s quickly go through some of these concepts for you to understand the process better.

Costa Rica Work Permit Visa Application – The Costa Rican work permit requires you to submit all documents in person to the immigration department. Aside from this fact, you’ll also need to visit the Ministry of Public Security to register your personal information and fingerprints. The cost of this work visa as of 2021 is 28,300 CRC (equivalent to 50 USD)

Business Visa/Family Visa in Costa Rica – If you’re interested in moving to Costa Rica for temporary business, the business visa is such a category to apply for. On the other hand, expats who can secure a work permit may bring their dependents (spouse, minor-aged children, able or disabled) with them.

Self-Employment Visa in Costa Rica – The Special category residential permit includes different subcategories. Whether or not you qualify for the self-employed work permit, your application depends on how strong of a case you make and the discretion of the immigration officer viewing your profile. The self-employment category includes; investor’s visa, resident visa, and many more.

Self-Employment Visa Requirements – No matter which visa you’re applying for, these documents will hasten your visa applications. Below are the documents you’ll need to consider.

• Two passport-sized photographs and an application form
• Registration documents, including the legal constitution of the hiring company
• Employment statements with a full detailed description of employment and salary
• Payment proof of worker’s insurance, and police clearance from home country
• Registration proof with a Costa Rican consulate and sufficient financial means

Conclusion

Expats love Costa Rica for its affordable cost of living and wonderful beaches – And I think you should love it too! But what exactly do you need to live in this country? Read this guide again to check everything needed, including accessing healthcare and enjoying the best possible life in Costa Rica.