Moving to Costa Rica can be an incredible adventure, but it is wise to prepare for what is bound to be a significant transition.
Costa Rica is well known for its culture of healthy living and natural beauty, drawing people in from around the globe who appreciate tropical weather, relaxing lifestyles and easy access to big city amenities – making Costa Rica an attractive option for expats seeking their dream destination.
Get Your Free Guide to Shipping to Costa Rica
Getting Started
Costa Rica can be an amazing and life-altering experience. This country is well known for its high quality of life, consistently ranking well in global happiness and wellbeing surveys. Beyond its beautiful beaches, mountains, and jungles, its culture embraces healthy living through nutritious foods, recreation opportunities and a slower pace.
Costa Rica may present unique challenges. Road conditions can be poor and power outages may arise at times; while crime levels may be relatively low overall.
Consider also shipping your possessions. Relocating internationally can be expensive, so doing research to locate an experienced long distance moving company with competitive rates should be your goal.
Buying a Home
The United States offers an incredible variety of stunning properties. Choose between homes in the mountains, near beaches and urban environments – each offers something special. When selecting your dream property it’s wise to opt for something with reliable infrastructure as this will improve both quality of life and resale value. Furthermore, check flooding risk as well as microclimate in order to make a decision that’s right for you!
Real estate agents in Costa Rica typically charge a 6% fee. Be sure to negotiate carefully and secure a written agreement from all real estate agents you speak with, before finding one online or by asking friends and family members for recommendations.
Many expats advise against buying property immediately as most end up leaving within two to three years for various reasons, such as health concerns, family tensions or becoming disenchanted with Pura Vida. Therefore it is better to rent first and get acquainted with your host country before making such a large financial commitment. It may be more advantageous if the purchase was completed through an LLC rather than directly in your name.
Get Your Free Guide to Shipping to Costa Rica
Getting a Visa
Attracting many expats, Costa Rica boasts 780 miles of tropical beaches, lush rainforests, active volcanoes and top-tier medical and dental care services. Many expats embrace its pura vida philosophy of physical and mental well-being through nutritious food consumption, reduced stress levels and participation in cultural and recreational activities.
If you intend on studying in Costa Rica, obtaining a student visa or temporary residence permit will be necessary. Either contact your local Costa Rican consulate for provisional student visa applications; otherwise enter as a tourist and register at university within 90 days after arrival to be eligible to file for residency permit with Immigration office.
A two-year residency visa available to individuals who guarantee monthly income of $1,000. You may also seek rentista status by depositing $60,000 into an account in either foreign or local currency and agreeing to transfer that money every month into Costa Rican currency for two years.
Get Your Free Guide to Shipping to Costa Rica
Getting a Job
Costa Rica may seem like the perfect tropical paradise, with plenty of activities for expats to do and plenty of things they can enjoy outside of work – yet most expats still need a source of income, whether full time to support their lifestyle or part time to add social security security.
Finding employment in Costa Rica may not be impossible, but it takes some time. Furthermore, understanding its business culture – which emphasizes punctuality and strong work ethics – is important.
Starting your own business can be easier than you think in Costa Rica; using an investor visa you can acquire existing firms or establish one from scratch.
Acquiring a work visa in Costa Rica may seem complex, but with expert help it is achievable. Relocate is an independent platform dedicated to global migration where licensed Advisors offer guidance that will enable you to prosper in your new country. Get started now!
