Question 1

How long does it take to ship household goods from the US to Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Typically 4–8 weeks door-to-door. From the US East Coast, the ocean leg takes 5–10 days; from the West Coast, 14–18 days. Add time for packing, pickup, port processing, and customs clearance — which usually adds 1–3 weeks. Delays at the Port of Limón are common in Q4.

Question 2

Can I drive my car in Costa Rica on a tourist visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can legally drive on your valid foreign driver's license for up to 90 days, matching your tourist entry stamp. Once you become a legal resident, you are required to obtain a Costa Rican license.

Question 3

What is the Pensionado residency in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Pensionado residency is for people receiving a permanent lifetime pension of at least $1,000 per month from a government, military, or recognized private source. It is one of the most popular categories for retirees. Requirements should always be verified with a licensed Costa Rican immigration attorney.

Question 4

How high are import taxes on vehicles in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Very high. Import taxes typically range from 50% to over 80% of the vehicle's customs-appraised value — not what you paid. The Hacienda uses its own valuation registry, which often appraises vehicles near their original retail price. For many people, buying a used car locally is more economical than importing.

Question 5

What is the cost of living in Costa Rica for a couple?

Accepted Answer

It varies by region. A comfortable life in smaller Central Valley towns (Atenas, Grecia) runs roughly $2,000–$3,000 per month for a couple. Escazú or beach towns like Tamarindo typically run $3,500–$5,500 or more. Many expat couples report living well on $2,500–$3,500 per month outside the most expensive areas.

Question 6

Can I bring my pet dog or cat to Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dogs and cats can enter Costa Rica with: an up-to-date veterinary health certificate issued within 2 weeks of travel, proof of current rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before travel, and an official government-endorsed health certificate (USDA APHIS for US residents). SENASA reviews all pet imports at the port of entry.

Question 7

Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Not to get by initially — English is widely spoken in expat communities, tourist areas, private hospitals, and among professionals. However, learning conversational Spanish dramatically improves daily life, relationships with neighbors, and your ability to navigate government offices and smaller towns.

Question 8

What appliances can I not ship to Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

You cannot import used refrigerators, air conditioners, or electric ranges — these are prohibited under Costa Rican environmental regulations, even as part of a personal household shipment. These must be purchased locally. Other used household appliances and furniture are generally permitted with an accurate inventory and proper customs documentation.

Question 9

What is the menaje de casa exemption?

Accepted Answer

The menaje de casa is a one-time customs exemption allowing legal residents of Costa Rica to import their used personal household belongings duty-free. Items must be genuinely used, the shipment must arrive within a defined window of receiving residency, and a complete itemized inventory is required. Always confirm current requirements with a licensed customs broker before shipping.

Question 10

Is Costa Rica safe for expats?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes — Costa Rica is considered one of the safer countries in Central America. Petty theft is the most common issue in urban and tourist-heavy areas. Gated communities are common and popular with expats. Rural areas and smaller towns are very safe. Exercise the same urban awareness you would in any mid-sized city.

Question 11

What is the best place to live in Costa Rica for retirees?

Accepted Answer

Atenas and Grecia in the Central Valley are top picks for their mild year-round climate, low cost of living, tight expat communities, and proximity to San José hospitals. Escazú and Santa Ana offer more urban amenities at a higher price. Guanacaste beach towns like Tamarindo and Sámara suit those wanting beach living. Most retirees recommend visiting each area during the rainy season before committing.

Question 12

Can I use my US health insurance in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Most US domestic health plans, including Medicare, do not cover care in Costa Rica. As a legal resident, you are required to enroll in the Caja (CCSS) public system. Many expats also carry international health insurance for private care access — providers like Cigna Global and Aetna International offer expat-focused plans.

Question 13

How long does it take to get residency in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Once a complete application is submitted to DGME, processing typically takes 6–18 months. During that time you receive a provisional document allowing you to stay legally. Errors or incomplete documentation extend processing significantly. Working with an experienced immigration attorney usually shortens the timeline.

Question 14

What documents do I need to move to Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Key documents include: a valid passport, apostilled birth certificate, apostilled police background check from every country you have lived in, proof of income (pension letters or bank statements), marriage certificate if applicable (apostilled), and medical records. Apostilles are issued by your state's Secretary of State office and can take days to weeks to process.

Question 15

What is the Rentista residency in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Rentista residency is for people who can demonstrate a guaranteed passive income — such as investment returns, rental income, or trust distributions — of typically $2,500 per month. It suits early retirees and those with substantial passive income who do not have a qualifying pension. Requirements have changed over time, so verify current rules with an immigration attorney.

Question 16

What are the best places to live in Costa Rica for expats?

Accepted Answer

Popular expat areas include the Central Valley (Escazú, Santa Ana, Atenas, Grecia), the Pacific coast (Tamarindo, Nosara, Manuel Antonio, Uvita), and the Caribbean coast (Puerto Viejo). Each region has distinct climates, infrastructure levels, and community sizes. The best area depends on your lifestyle priorities, budget, and tolerance for distance from hospitals and airports.

Plan Your Move to Costa Rica with AI — Get Answers, Then Get a Quote