Costa Rica 10 Day Sustainable Lifestyle

Planning To Reside In Costa Rica? Here’s What You Should Do

Costa Rica is a marvelous nation that’s not only lively and booming, it also has a ton of tourist destinations to explore. Why settle with tourist destinations when you can enjoy the country as a local? Is it really worth it living in Costa Rica? Why, considering all its upsides, it’s safe to say that being a local is indeed worth it.

Of course, wishing to live in Costa Rica and actually taking steps to move to it are two completely different things. In reality, it’s quite a complex process to have to move to another country in general. Here’s a short guide that will help you make this big and necessary change in your life.

Prepare Your Visa

The most important document you’ll need to have for your move to Costa Rica is, of course, your Visa. There are Visas for tourists and for those that want to become permanent residents. Some countries – like the US for example, have easier means to secure a permanent residence visa from the embassy. Here are some of the Visas and permits that can help you out.

  • Tourist Visa/Perpetual Tourism – Before you move to Costa Rica, it would be a good idea to get a feel of what it is like to live in the country first. Regularly visiting Costa Rica is a good way to do this, and it can also increase your chances of getting approved for a permanent residence Visa.
  • Work/Student/Volunteer – If you are looking to move to Costa Rica for a long time but not permanently, then one of these types of permits is perfect for you. However, it can be tough securing these. For instance, if it’s a work permit you are going for, you’ll have to specialize in a trade that the Costa Rican government is currently looking for.

Those who live in the US and Canada do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica. However, you need to show proof that you’ll be leaving the country within 90 days.

As for a permanent residence, there are two ways to do this. The Pensionado Program and the Rentista Program. The Pensionado Program requires you to show that you are getting a pension source of at least $1000 a month. The Rentista Program on the other hand is for workers of at least $2,500 for at least two years or a $60,000 deposit into a Costa Rican bank. 

As for documents, you usually only need to submit your proof of residency and identity in your current residence. If you don’t have any criminal records whatsoever, moving to Costa Rica is relatively easy. The standard time for processing your move can last up to 90 days, depending on whether or not there are problems with your documents.

Prepare Your Home

While preparing your documents, it would be best to begin looking at properties in Costa Rica as soon as you can.  There are a ton of properties for sale in Costa Rica if you know where to look. There are also options for various budget ranges as well, so it is very easy

It’s a dream for a lot of people to live by one of the many beaches in Costa Rica, but these locations are often considered prime, so they are a bit on the pricey side. If you want to be in a place that’s more affordable, go live in suburban areas that are near Costa Rica’s beaches so that you don’t miss out on the economy as well.

Some of the most popular and booming economies in Costa Rica include Tamarindo, Monteverde, and San Jose. These cities are definitely wise to get into, but since the economy is good in these areas, expect a steeper price point for houses. Condo units are more affordable and are not necessarily a bad option as well.

The Day Of The Move

Ideally, everything in your new home should be set up months before your flight. The good news is that there are many real estate and immigration companies that help you settle in. You shouldn’t have to worry too much about this part of the process, and just enjoy the trip to your new home.


Costa Rica is a marvelous country filled with many amazing sights and wonders. It’s a tourist destination, so there’s an economy that keeps people busy. Before you move to the country, make sure that you are already confident with the decision, as moving is and will always be a critical choice in life.