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Moving to Costa Rica

Last updated on December 11, 2023

Moving to Costa Rica

Hey there, amigos! It’s your favorite expat, Don Mango, and today we’re talking about moving to Costa Rica. Now, I know what you’re thinking – why would I want to leave behind all the comforts of home? Well, let me tell you, Costa Rica has got it all.

First off, it’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world. You’ve got a modern capital city, reliable utility service, clean water, lush rain forests, long stretches of deserted tropical beaches, fun beach towns, quaint rural villages, bustling cities, cool mountain getaways, and pristine lake regions. And let’s not forget the locals. Not only are they friendly – but many of them speak English, so you won’t have to struggle with a language barrier.

But what really sets Costa Rica apart is its stability. It’s been a long-established democracy and politically stable for years, which means you can feel safe and secure. Plus, it’s been welcoming retirees and other expats for over 30 years, so you’ll be joining a thriving community of like-minded individuals.

And don’t even get me started on the healthcare system – it’s one of the best low-cost medical care systems in the world. Dental care and cosmetic surgery is affordable, and Costa Rica’s plastic surgeons are considered among the world’s best. You can live comfortably on $2,500 to $3,000 per month, and even hire a full-time maid for just $10 a day.

But let’s talk taxes, folks. Investors pay no capital gains taxes on real estate, business taxes are minimal, and high-interest bank accounts are tax-free. Property taxes are very low compared to the U.S. and elsewhere. You’ll pay just 0.25% of the assessed value of your property annually. And with reliable high-speed internet and excellent public transportation, you won’t even need a car.

So there you have it, folks – why wouldn’t you want to move to Costa Rica? It’s got everything you need for a fantastic lifestyle at a reasonable cost. Come join me for some pura vida, won’t you?

Should I Bring my Margarita Blender?

No matter where you move to, transporting household goods and personal belongings can be challenging. For a move to Costa Rica, for example, you can choose an American moving company, but that firm will still have to deal with a local relocation company to deliver your goods in Costa Rica, a process that can entail tedious dealings with bureaucracy. To avoid this problem, experienced expats say the best strategy is to first select a Costa Rican shipping broker. This firm will then choose the American company that it wants to work with. You can bring a full 40-foot container of goods, including your car. Or you can share a container with another expat. You also have the option of shipping smaller crates. Some expats liberate themselves and bring only what they can fit in their suitcases. It’s important to think long and hard about what possessions you’ll bring to Costa Rica.

How the Hell do I Bring Down My Pets!?!

Good news for animal lovers! Let’s talk about bringing your furry friends to Costa Rica. Because let’s face it, what’s a good adventure without your trusty companion by your side?

Luckily, bringing your pet to Costa Rica is a pretty straightforward process. All you need is a rabies vaccination administered within 30 days of departure, and an APHIS 7001 International Health Certificate from the United States Department of Agriculture stating that your pet is in good health. Easy peasy, right?

Now, when it comes to transporting your pet, small dogs and cats can ride in a carrier under your airline seat – subject to rules for your specific airline, of course. And larger dogs can ride in crates with the luggage. Just keep in mind that there are extra fees involved, and some breeds may not be able to fly for health reasons.

But what about our feathered friends, you ask? Well, birds require a bit more paperwork, but it’s nothing you can’t handle. And if you need help with the transport, you can always hire a pet shipper to handle it for you.

So there you have it, folks – no quarantines for pets in Costa Rica, and a relatively easy process to bring them along for the ride. Just make sure you do your research, check with your airline, and get all the necessary paperwork in order. Your furry (or feathery) friend will thank you for it!

Can I Bring my Guns to Costa Rica?

Well… that ones a bit more tricky….

But let’s talk about firearms and ammunition in Costa Rica. Because let’s face it, when you’re exploring the jungle, you never know what kind of wild creatures you might encounter.

The rules on firearms and ammunition in Costa Rica are no joke. Only citizens and permanent residents of Costa Rica are allowed to possess firearms. So if you’re just a temporary visitor, you’ll have to leave your weapons at home. And even if you are a resident, you’ll need to get an import permit approved by the Costa Rican authorities. Talk about a process!

But hey, if you’re up for the challenge, go ahead and file that application through a licensed importer, authorized dealer, or a particular person. Once you’re in Costa Rica, you’ll need to register your weapon at the Ministry of Public Security’s Department of Firearms and Ammunitions. And don’t forget, you’ll need to pass a criminal background check, psychological test, and firearms safety test. Just being honest here… there’s a lot of hoops to jump through!

But honestly, when you think about the laidback, peaceful way of life in Costa Rica, and you can carry a machete around everywhere… who needs a gun anyway? So take a deep breath, leave your weapons at home, and enjoy all the beauty and adventure that this amazing country has to offer. Trust me, you won’t regret it!