Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where is Costa Rica?

A. Costa Rica is in Central America. It is located in between Panama and Nicaragua. It is 9 degrees north of the equator.

Q. Why Costa Rica?

A. CNBC rates Costa Rica as the hottest real estate market in the WORLD. Tourism has increased over 1100% in the last five years and the government is spending hundreds of millions of dollars to improve the infrastructure in the country. This all translates into a strong market for years to come.

Q. Can Non-Costa Ricans own land in Costa Rica?

A. Yes! Non Costa Ricans have the same property rights to own property as Costa Rican Citizens. In addition, property in Costa Rica is FEE SIMPLE, DEEDED PROPERTY. You Own it!!

Q. Is the government stable?

A. Costa Rica is the longest running democracy in all of Latin America. Costa Rica disbanded their military in 1948. They use these additional funds for education and healthcare.

Q. How is the healthcare?

A. Costa Rica’s healthcare is rated higher than the healthcare in the United States. All residents of Costa Rica get free healthcare and their doctors are among the best in the world.  Retirees and other who have achieved Residency status can participate in the country's health care system for a very low monthly premium.

Q. Are there property taxes?

A. Yes. Property taxes are .25% of the accessed value of the property.

Q. What activities are in Costa Rica?

A. Fishing, Surfing, Canopy Tours, Zip lines, ATV riding, horse back riding, bird watching, white water rafting, eco-tours, scuba diving, golf.

Q. Are there direct flights to Costa Rica?

A. Yes. There are direct flights from Phoenix, Los Angeles, Denver, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Charlotte, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Chicago and New York.

Q. Is Costa Rica safe?

A. Yes. Costa Rica was rated as the safest vacation destination in the world by Interpol. They have a much lower violent crime rate than we have in the United States.

Q. What ocean’s border Costa Rica?

A. Costa Rica is bordered by both the Atlantic ocean to it’sEast and the Pacific ocean to it’s West.

Q. Do I need a passport to go to Costa Rica?

A. Yes.  A passport is required.

Q. Do I need a Visa to enter Costa Rica?

A. Depending on your country of origin you may enter Costa Rica without a Visa. USA, Canada and most European countries have this privilege.

Q. How long can I stay in Costa Rica?

A. Generally, if you enter the country as a tourist you can stay for up to 90 days.  You must then leave for at least three days and can return for another 90 days.

Q. Can I enter Costa Rica with a one way ticket?

A. Generally, no.  Contact your airline directly to see if they will allow this.

Q. Do I need an international drivers license to drive a car in Costa Rica?

A. No. An international drivers license is not required.

Q. Can I get married in Costa Rica?  What documents do I need?

A. Foreigners can get married in Costa Rica.  The documents needed are: Original birth certificate, affidavit of single status, copy of police record, valid passport, divorce decree (if applicable).  These documents need to follow the authentication procedure before being taken to Costa Rica.  This means you must take or send these documents to the Costa Rica Embassy or Consulate in your country before you come.  They will attach tax stamps and return the document to you.  The Association of Costa Rica Residents can guide you in this process.

Q. What is the difference between the rain forest and the cloud forest?

A. Mainly the altitude and the temperature.  The rain forests are very hot and humid while a cloud forest is humid and moist.  Most notably, the flora and fauna are significantly different.

Q. Is the water safe to drink?

A. Costa Rica water is among the finest in the world.  You can drink it straight from the tap.

Q. What is the currency in Costa Rica?

A. The Costa Rican currency is called the colon.  All banks will convert your dollars and other major currencies into colones.  Most stores, hotels and restaurants in the major tourist areas will accept U.S. dollars but it's always best to carry some colones with you.   Your major credit cards will also be widely accepted.   Most ATM machines will accept you debit cards.  Many wil ask you if you want your withdrawal in Colones or U.S. dollars.