Living in Costa Rica - Expat Guides

Guides for Expats in Costa Rica

Want to live in Costa Rica? On this page you’ll find common topics that will help you overcome the challenges of living, working, retiring, and starting businesses in Costa Rica. Be sure to check back every month as we add new posts about becoming an expat in Costa Rica.

Essential Reading

Here are some of the most important guides you must read when moving to Costa Rica:

Moving to Costa Rica: A Guide for Expats to Live Here 2021-08-21 by Michael K There is only one Latin American nation that can boast of having the longest continuous democratic rule and a commitment… ... Read more
Cost of Living in Costa Rica: How Much Do You Need Per Month? (2022) 2022-09-22 by Patrick Limcaco Here's how much you'll you spend per month in one of Central America's most popular expat destinations. ... Read more
The Complete Guide to Finding an Apartment for Rent in Costa Rica as Expats 2022-04-14 by Patrick Limcaco Whether you plan on renting a house or an apartment while living in Costa Rica, it's always easier to find… ... Read more
Health Insurance for Expats in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know in 2022 2022-08-20 by Patrick Limcaco Health insurance is often one of the first things you think about when moving to a new country. Costa Rica… ... Read more
A Guide to the Cheapest Way to Send Money to Costa Rica 2021-09-09 by Michael K There was a time when sending money to Costa Rica was not easy. Despite forging historically close ties with the… ... Read more
Shipping to Costa Rica: Procedure, Costs, and Customs 2022-04-15 by Gail Are you shipping a parcel to Costa Rica? Are you planning to move there and need to ship some of… ... Read more
A Complete Overview of Costa Rica’s Visa Requirements 2022-02-23 by Jacob Powell How to get the right visa for your situation and stay in the country either short or long term. ... Read more
An Overview of the Legal System and Lawyers in Costa Rica 2021-09-02 by Patrick Limcaco Residents and visitors of Costa Rica may not always have a clear picture of the country's criminal justice system. That's… ... Read more
A Beginner’s Guide to Costa Rican Tax for US Expats 2021-06-09 by Patrick Limcaco Find out if you have to file income taxes as an American expat living in Costa Rica. ... Read more

Latest Articles for Expats in Costa Rica

Finding a Long-Term Rental in Costa Rica

2022-09-292022-05-25 by Staci Hunsinger

Staying in Costa Rica for more than a month? This guide will help you find a long-term rental in the country.

Best Neighborhoods to Live in San Jose as Expats

Best Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose

2022-09-292022-05-17 by Amanda Miron

These top picks offer some of the best lifestyle, social, and cultural experiences in the country.

The Best VPN Services for Expats in Costa Rica

2022-09-292022-05-16 by Staff Writer

Protect your online presence in Costa Rica with a safe and private VPN.

Nine Best Places to Live in Costa Rica

2022-09-292022-05-11 by Jacob Powell

Can’t decide which part of Costa Rica to live in? This list will help you narrow down your choices.

Eight Truths About Retiring in Costa Rica

2022-09-292022-05-09 by Amanda Miron

Thinking about retiring in Costa Rica? Here are some facts to know about the country.

The Average of Cost of Living in San Jose, Costa Rica Per Month (2022)

2022-09-292022-04-28 by Amanda Miron

Why live in San Jose, Costa Rica? San Jose is the capital city of Costa Rica. Not only are there plenty of attractions and interesting … Read more

The Complete Guide to Costa Rica Retirement Visa

2022-09-292022-04-20 by Jacob Powell

Costa Rica provides an official retirement visa for people who want to live in the country. It’s a popular country with expats of retirement age, … Read more