Costa Rica – a dream for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet
Dense rainforests, beautiful beaches and majestic volcanoes – Costa Rica offers breathtaking landscapes that will delight any nature lover. It’s no wonder that this Central American country is becoming increasingly popular with emigrants.
Uncomplicated immigration and attractive tax regulations
Costa Rica is characterized by a comparatively uncomplicated immigration process. Pensioners and financially strong people can settle down without major hurdles with the “Pensionado” or “Rentista” program. Another plus point: the territorial tax system allows foreigners who receive income exclusively from abroad to live largely tax-free. The attractive offer is rounded off by a well-developed and affordable health system, which also makes Costa Rica an interesting destination for older people.
Country and people
With around 5 million inhabitants, Costa Rica is a relatively small country that nevertheless has a diverse population. In addition to the majority of ethnic Costa Ricans, there are also numerous migrants living in the country, especially from Nicaragua and the surrounding countries. There are also emigrants from North America and Europe who are attracted by the quality of life and the natural beauty of the country.
Tax-free dream or expensive illusion?
Costa Rica not only attracts with its beautiful landscapes and a relaxed attitude to life, but also with an attractive tax system. But before you emigrate headlong to paradise, you should know the details.
Territorial tax system: advantages for foreigners
Costa Rica, Panama and Nicaragua have one thing in common: a territorial tax system. This means that income from abroad is tax-free in these countries. Ideal for retirees and pensioners who want to enjoy their pensions and savings abroad.
Local income: tax brackets and differences
The situation is different with local income, however. In Costa Rica, this is taxed at tax rates of up to 25%. A distinction is made between income from employment and self-employment.
Self-employed people have it much better here: the top tax rate of 25% only applies to annual incomes of around 25,500 euros. Employees, on the other hand, have to pay this from an income of around 5,900 euros.
Cost of living: More expensive than you think?
Are you dreaming of a life in paradise at a bargain price? Then you should be prepared for a surprise. Because Costa Rica is not cheap.
Imported food, familiar comforts and luxury items often cost more than in Germany. Depending on your lifestyle, Costa Rica can even be more expensive than your old home.
Health care: Pros and cons
The quality of health care in Costa Rica varies from region to region. In densely populated areas it is usually good, but in rural areas it can be problematic.
Advantages of Costa Rica:
- Costa Rica offers excellent health care compared to other countries.
- Life expectancy is around 80.85 years.
- The health system is divided into a public and a private sector.
- Treatment costs are significantly lower than in Germany.
Disadvantages:
In rural areas, care can be worse. Necessary treatment should therefore preferably be carried out in cities.
Conclusion: Careful planning is the be-all and end-all
Costa Rica offers emigrants many advantages, but also challenges. The attractive tax system and good health care are clear plus points. The cost of living can, however, be surprisingly high.
Dream of living in paradise? With the right planning, it can become reality!
Costa Rica attracts with breathtaking nature, a relaxed attitude to life and an attractive tax system. But before you emigrate headlong to paradise, you should find out about the immigration regulations.
Different visas in Costa Rica for different needs
Costa Rica offers various residence permits that are tailored to the needs of different groups of emigrants. The three most popular options are:
1. Pensionado visa:
Ideal for retirees
- Monthly pension income of at least US$1,000 required
- No minimum age
- Option to convert to permanent residence after 3 years
- Working as an employee is not possible, self-employment is permitted
2. Rentista Visa:
For financially independent people
- Guaranteed monthly income of at least $2,500 required
- Proof of $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank account
- After 3 years, conversion to permanent residency is possible
- Working as an employee is not possible, self-employment is permitted
3. Inversionista Visa:
For investors
- Investment of at least $200,000 (or $100,000 in forest) is required
2-year temporary residency permit, extension possible - Minimum stay of 6 months per year required
- Working as an employee is not possible, self-employment is permitted
Other residency permits
In addition to the three visas mentioned, there are other residency permits that may be suitable for certain groups of people, e.g. digital nomads, students or people with family ties to Costa Rica.
General requirements
Regardless of the visa chosen, all emigrants must meet a few general requirements, such as:
- Valid passport
- No criminal record
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Health insurance
- Preparation is the key to success
Emigrating to Costa Rica requires thorough preparation. Find out early on about the exact requirements and the process for applying for the desired residence permit.
Living in paradise:
exploring Costa Rica’s diverse regions
Costa Rica is a country full of contrasts and offers emigrants an incredible variety of living options. From the vibrant capital San Jose to the idyllic beach resorts and the lush jungle – everyone can find their own paradise here.
The agony of choice: finding the right region
To make your decision easier, we present four regions that are particularly attractive to emigrants:
1. Escazu: relaxed city life near San Jose
Escazu combines the advantages of the big city with the charm of a quiet residential area. Here you can enjoy excellent infrastructure, excellent restaurants, good schools and modern healthcare. At the same time, you benefit from the proximity to San Jose and the numerous attractions in the area.
2. Tamarindo: White beaches and surfer’s paradise on the Pacific coast
Tamarindo is a dream for all beach lovers and water sports fans. Beautiful beaches, crystal clear water and perfect waves for surfing make this place an unforgettable experience.
3. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Caribbean vibes and a relaxed lifestyle
Located in the south of Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca offers a unique mix of Caribbean culture and a relaxed atmosphere. Here you can unwind, enjoy the beautiful beaches and explore the diverse flora and fauna.
4. Dominical: Pure nature and surfer’s paradise
Dominical is a paradise for nature lovers and surfers. In the midst of breathtaking landscapes, you can indulge in your hobby here, but also hike, ride or just enjoy the peace and quiet.
Additional tips for choosing the right region:
Do your research online and read reviews from other expats.
Visit Costa Rica and explore different regions.
Talk to locals and expats on site.
Determine which amenities and activities are important to you.
Consider your budget.
With the right preparation and a little patience, you can find the perfect region in Costa Rica for your new home.
Conclusion
Costa Rica offers a unique mix of stunning nature, friendly people, easy immigration conditions and attractive tax regulations. These factors make the country a dream destination for anyone longing for a new life adventure in a paradise.Whether you prefer to live in the vibrant city, enjoy the peace and quiet of nature or relax on beautiful beaches – here you will find your very own paradise.
Start with Plan B now!
Arrange a free initial consultation today and get advice from our experts. Together we will shape your successful future!
GCI UNIT Worldwide is a division of TCME-Group Worldwide, one of the world’s leading professional corporate investment and foreign trade advisory firms, with a total of 17 divisions in various countries and headquartered in Malaysia.
GCI-UNIT Worldwide is very much a hallmark of high-quality service and professional excellence in many different practice areas.
With our department we are a global provider of Citizenship by Investment Programs, Honorary Citizenship, Residency Programs and Citizenship Solution over Economic Ministry. We are able to identify rare and exceptional opportunities for our clients around the globe, mainly combining sound investments with the benefits of permanent residence, passport and citizenship in this country
Our legal team and specialist lawyers are well-known in the global immigration field and have over 25 years of experience in fast-track dual citizenship programs.
We currently work with more than 70 countries, advise governments and help find investors for their projects and focus on high-net-worth individuals (HNWI) or companies that have at least double-digit million assets.
In contrast to the classic agent who wants to sell you a second citizenship, we see ourselves as a “boutice” for a special clientele.
It’s not just a question of which citizenship program is best for you, how much it costs in the respective country, but what happens after that?
Are there good international schools there for your children?
What are the business opportunities in the respective country?
What about health care, how much taxes do you have to pay in the country?
Can I obtain a second citizenship in a country of my choice even though it does not offer an official citizenship program, but the government is interested in individuals or investors who provide a benefit to the country and are therefore granted citizenship!
We are at home in every country where we offer you a residence permit or citizenship, we work locally with our tax advisors and lawyers and of course we know the country and its mentality.
In our opinion, it is not enough to just want to sell citizenship based on books or dangerous half-knowledge.
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Global Citizenship Investment (GCI) is a global provider of:
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Therefore, we are able to identify rare and exceptional opportunities for our clients around the globe, combining, above all, solid investments that lead to the benefits of permanent residence, passport and citizenship in this country.
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