Costa Rica Relocating
Costa Rica has so much to offer... Whether you come as a visitor, an investor or to establish a permanent residency, there is something attractive here for everyone. Add to this a low crime rate with virtually no violent crime, a military free existence and property prices that are still attainable for the average investor, and it’s no wonder the number of North Americans relocating to Costa Rica has tripled in the last decade.
Perhaps the most attractive of Costa Rica’s benefits is the government’s favorable attitude toward foreign investors and visitors. . Americans can stay in Costa Rica for up to three months while earning income from self-employment, owning a vehicle and even purchasing real estate. . After this, becoming a citizen of Costa Rica is not a difficult process. And while foreign investors live the Costa Rican lifestyle, enjoying world class golf and evenings at the beach, they pay income tax only on their income earned in Costa Rica; foreign income is not taxed.
No longer a secret, Costa Rica has become the number one Ecotourism destination in the world and with over 25% of its national territory set aside as protected areas, there is ample variety and beauty to enjoy. Costa Rica is a paradise for those who enjoy Nature and the Outdoors, as well as the Water-sports, Sport-fishing and Golf enthusiasts. The rivers, lakes and coast lines all offer ideal conditions for fishing, rafting, kayaking, diving, surfing or just plain sun worship. All these attractions are close enough that you can enjoy a sunrise on the Caribbean coast and on the same day take in the spectacular beauty of a sunset on the Pacific Coast.
This dream is becoming a reality for thousands of foreign investors each year as they invest in the growing Costa Rican real estate market and find themselves calling this their new home.
With a temperate climate, plenty of ocean view property and a relaxed lifestyle, Costa Rica is the ideal locale for those searching for a solid investment in foreign real estate. . However, Costa Rica also has so much more to offer than other countries with similar climate and terrain. . Favorable foreign investment policies, a stable democratic republic government and fair tax laws are just a few of the factors that set Costa Rica a world apart from other international investment opportunities. .
Health Care
Although Costa Rica’s health care system is very good. Health insurance for foreigners can be purchased through the INS (National Insurance Institute), which is the only option available since insurance is a state-granted monopoly here. It covers much of the same things that a policy would in another country, although the policies are generally much cheaper.
Prescription medications in Costa Rica are not subject to US law, and thus generics and brand names are much cheaper than in the states. In addition, antibiotics and many other more benign medications can be sold by a pharmacist without a prescription
In San Jose, many doctors study in the states as part of their training. Almost all of them speak some degree of English as well.
Many foreigners take advantage of the medical tourism that Costa Rica has to offer.
Foreigners generally have complex surgeries at CIMA, Clinica Biblica, and other reputable hospitals here.
It’s a good idea if your considering moving to Costa Rica, to first come here as a tourist.
The longer you can stay the better. It is important that in addition to knowing the logistics of establishing residency and making the move, you get a little taste of what life will be like. What’s seems like paradise while on vacation can quickly change from day-to-day living.
What is it like to live here?
Only your own experience can answer that, since it is different for every person. But some basic information may help you in your investigation. At the present time, if you own a house and car and have no debts, you can live very well on US $1,500 per month, including maid and gardener services. Comfortably on $1000 per month or less depending on your lifestyle. Foreign residents or tourists can buy or rent homes, condos, and property in Costa Rica.
Property taxes are generally lower in Costa Rica than in North America and many other countries. For example a $50,000 house in San Jose (worth triple or more in the US) will cost you $250 per year. As a foreign resident, you will not pay income taxes on foreign pensions or income generated outside of Costa Rica.
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