Whether you are looking to retire early, start a new business, invest your money or just get away from the hectic pace of everyday life, relocating to costa rica offers something for everyone. Its tropical weather, lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and laidback lifestyle attract expats from around the world.
Costa Rica’s official language is Spanish, but many residents also speak English and a variety of indigenous languages. The country is overwhelmingly Christian, but the constitution guarantees freedom of religion. Pura vida is more than just an expression, it’s the national motto that embodies the relaxed lifestyle of the people of Costa Rica. Life in the land of eternal springtime means enjoying what you have, finding joy and beauty in the small things, and staying positive and optimistic. Nothing happens in a hurry and even the most mundane tasks are executed with ease and patience.
If you are relocating to Costa move to costa rica Rica, it is best to have at least some level of fluency in Spanish, although many residents can understand English well enough. If you are not fluent, consider taking classes or studying online prior to your move. While most Costa Ricans speak Spanish, there are many areas where expats can find more English-speaking locals.
There are a few different options when it comes to obtaining residency in Costa Rica, but most expats begin by doing a 90-day visa run on tourist status while they determine the city and neighborhood where they want to live. This allows them to explore the different communities, and to find out which amenities are most important for their daily lives before making a final decision on where to settle down.
Once you have determined where you want to live, you can apply for permanent residency in Costa Rica after three years of temporary residency. There are a number of ways to obtain this residency, but the most popular is through investing in real estate or starting a business. Another option is to secure a visa through the Inversioista program, which allows expats to get residency by investing US$200,000 in property or a business.
The cost of living in Costa Rica is much lower than it is in the United States. International Living reports that rent prices, food costs and consumer goods are all significantly less expensive. Healthcare and dental work are also much cheaper.
While there are many benefits to relocating to Costa Rica, it is important to research the requirements for the visas you will need for yourself and any family members who will be joining you. It is also important to make sure you have the proper medical coverage in place before your departure. It’s also a good idea to seek legal advice from an experienced expat lawyer to ensure your paperwork is in order. If you are planning to ship your belongings, make sure you receive quotes from a few international moving companies. This will give you a better idea of the costs involved and will help you budget accordingly.