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Buying Property in Costa Rica

Living in Costa Rica

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions
Living in Costa Rica

Can I retire in Costa Rica?
Yes. A growing number of people from the United States, Canada and Europe are retiring in Costa Rica. You can obtain immigration status as a retiree in a few days at a cost of approximately U.S. $500 if you hire a legal firm.

Do I need a visa to visit or live in Costa Rica?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica and may stay up to 90 days. Please see Costa Rica Country Brief for additional information.

Can I bring my own furniture and other large items to my home in Costa Rica?
Yes, you can arrange a one-time shipment of your belongings. It's important to make a full and accurate declaration of items to be shipped. Include new items on which you will be required to pay import duties. Shipping arrangements can be made in Costa Rica before you actually ship your items. You can also buy beautiful furnishings in larger cities such as San Jose.


Can I bring my vehicle to Costa Rica?
Yes, there are many respectable private moving companies to help you move your automobile to Costa Rica. Please visit Costa Rica Moving, Relocation, Shipping to learn more.

Is the Costa Rican government stable?
Yes. Costa Rica has long been the stongest Central American ally to the United States. Their Democratic government is very stable and they are the only country in the Western hemisphere without an army. They have a very strong education and healthcare system.

Is Costa Rica a safe place to live?
Yes. The crime rate is very low - most of it is petty theft. Their violent crime rate is one of the lowest in the Western hemisphere. Locals are very friendly and many speak English as a second language.

How is the infrastructure and healthcare in Costa Rica?
A solid infrastructure makes Costa Rica a good choice for retirement, a second home, or a vacation retreat. There are many hydroelectric power plants that make Costa Rica larely self-sufficient for its energy needs. As exporters of electricity to Nicaragua, Costa Rica may become a major electricity exporter as plans fo rnew generating plants are completed. The roads system is extensive with much improvement in the works. The Costa Rican healthcare system is made up of a network of hospitals, clinic, and other rmedical services in all major cities. It is considered to have one of the best low-cost medical systems in the world.