Hi Sr I'm TICO and have no clue how I came across your video, I just wanted to say thank you very much for presenting my Costa Rica the most accurate and objective way possible.

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you Henry for watching the video. I was born in Costa Rica and always try and present the country in the most objective way possible

Thank you for all of your informative and well produced videos. We are from the US, started out with one week in Costa Rica, which led to two visits a year, which led to a month in Costa Rica. I think you have totally nailed it in this video. Spend as much time as possible in the area you think you might want to live and experience everything you can. When we bring newbies to Costa Rica, we warn them in advance that they will enjoy themselves much more if they immediately shift their mindset to the Costa Rica pace and flow - tranquilo. We have met many local people who feel like family to us and we miss them when we have to say goodbye. We feel so healthy and relaxed that we think we have found the fountain of youth. Please keep the videos coming. And, thank you to all the wonderful people of Costa Rica who have such generous spirits.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

I really appreciate your feedback and comment. You certainly did it the right way by spending time in the country to evaluate it. I am g;ad you pointed out the health and relaxation part because I think that is a very important part of the change. I find that those that are able to shift their mindset to tranquilo mode are more likely to enjoy their time in Costa Rica.

Extremely helpful. So much so that I liked and subscribed.

Appreciate this video, thank you!!

Best advice yet thank you

Lawyers are (almost always) such great communicators, such clarity and logic. Such a wonderful change from the usual drivel on here. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your feedback and your comment is very much appreciated as it motivates to keep making more conent. Regards

Helpful and mercifully brief overview. Definitely checking other videos posted by this guy

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for your feedback

Gracias Roger!!! Excelent and clear OUSTANDING INFO !!!!

The point about the higher cost of living being largely dependent on your lifestyle choices was especially well made around the 8:00 mark of this video. Costa Rica is full of great value if you adjust and know where to look for it. We have found an easy way to determine what Costa Rica is going to cost you on a monthly basis is search out some rentals that you like in the given area you are interested in and then multiply the rent times 3. This gives you a rough idea on what your living costs will be in the country. ***obvious exceptions to the rule will apply.

This is an awesome video. Good information. Thank you!

Thank you, Roger. Saludos!

Excellent stuff. Thank you Roger

one of the best (or perhaps the best), concise, informative videos i’ve come across, without unnecessary judgments, preachy monologue, still respectful of the locals but giving straight facts. although i’ve not lived for that long, everything i found to be true. the locals are just amazing, welcoming and most lovely people i’ve seen anywhere and i’ve interacted with a lot (more than in the countries i’ve lived in) that’s a big plus! i saw even locals complaining about some the aspects mentioned here (exactly to the point!) but it isn’t so bad esp, if you’re not working or doing business etc. and if one has an open mind as there are issues in every country. idk about the healthcare aspect though, but overall right on point! thank you!

@CostaRicaLaw

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for such a detailed review and comment on this video. I appreciate your taking the time and your insight. I was born in Costa Rica but grew up living in many different countries mostly in Latin America and as you correctly pointed out there are issues in every country. I think Costa Rica continues to have an interesting mix of positive factors that attract people to stay. Wish you the best in the country.

Great video Roger. I will be contacting you soon. Looking to set up an Eco Retirement community, on the Caribbean side of CR. I was there for 8 months and Loved it. Amazing people and country. :)

Great video! Thank you!

Bravo, very well presented! Keep up the superlative videos!

@CostaRicaLaw

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your comment. Yes, I will do my best to keep content flowing.

Great information thank you

Hello Roger! I have lost count of how many times I have shared this video among travellers interested in moving in to Costa Rica! I even have a template with the link to it! I use several Facebook groups to promote my Turismo transportation service, and several times a day I must say, I share said template with the link in it. Very helpful and coincise starting point for those interested in moving in to Costa Rica! I hope to meet you sometime to thank you personally! Stay safe and healthy!

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Arturo. Thank you for your comment, and glad you find the information helpful to those considering moving to Costa Rica. Happy to see the airport and flights coming back in to Costa Rica so we can get the tourism industry back on its feet. Look forward to meeting in person in the near future as well. Best Regards Roger

Cool video... Thanks lots for the video. 💚

Good video, thank you!

Looking into retirement in Coata Rica. I was stationed in Guam so, I know the island way of life. This is a big help towards our move to CR.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your feedback and hope to see you in Costa Rica

Absolutely loved the video.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Hi and thank you for your feedback which is very appreciated.

Yup. Moving there this year!

@CostaRicaLaw

2 жыл бұрын

Awesone. Glad to have you here soon !

Best advice is to visit other places then see CR and only then make your move. Seen too many expats move away lately. CR is marketed so well that people get the wrong idea. Good luck and safe travels!

I love Costa Rica.... my favorite vacay! Concerns about medical. Have BP & thyroid issues. We are 69 & 72.

@Blackice929

3 жыл бұрын

Simple diet changes (more fresh fruits veggies and some homemade produce juices as well as removing or consuming less meats, animal products, dairy, etc) can fix all of that hun! 😊

I'VE BEEN LIVING IN COSTA RICA ILLEGALLY FOR 17 YEARS. I AM A ITALIAN CITIZEN. I VISITED ITALY AND AUSTRALIA FOR 35 DAYS IN MAY, JUNE 2013, AND I HAD NO PROBLEM REENTERING COSTA RICA VIA THE JUAN SANTAMARIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IN ALAJUELA, COSTA RICA. THE IMMIGRATION JUST STAMPED MY PASSPORT WHEN I WENT OUT AND WHEN I CAME BACK IN.

@anya2slszyk511

3 жыл бұрын

😆I need to try this one too hehe

Greetings and thank you for the video. I was wondering if you had any insight in relocating to Costa Rica vs. Panama for a pensioner. I know Panama uses the dollar which is helpful and CR uses their own currency.

Great info...its April 2019... Let's check back at look at those temperatures and rainfall maps in 2049.... I will be 80 years old then.... Just wondering where to move to where fires won't wipe out whole towns or a beach front property still has accessible roads and not under water.....

Pura vida and tranquilo. This is me. I think Costa Rica would be a great place for me. I have never been but I am looking ahead to retirement and would love to try Costa Rica first. I like sunny weather, white sandy beaches,sunsets, maybe a hike through the woods, small town, good people, within 2 hour drive of a major airport. Any suggestions?

decent. Thanks heaps for this.

great content thank you.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your feedback about the video.

wow we want to move there. my dad loves it... doc johnny

@luismora441

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome , pura vida 🇨🇷👍

Well done, very professional presentation

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your feedback. Wish you the best for 2021.

Not trying to retire. I want to live, work, and teach there.

Se parece mucho a Puerto Rico. Lovesd the video..

every single point you mentioned can be said to "most" countries in central america., No structures in daily life, relaxed

Tks! and a curiosity please I have read somewhere that nowadays most natives most inhabitants of Costarica are well to do,is it true?

My dad is thinking about moving to Costa Rica. Do you have a video in which explains transferring money. For instance if I live in Costa Rica how do I transfer my money from a US bank to a Costa Rican bank? Also as a tourist living in Costa Rica can you explain about taxes. Do we pay Costa Rican taxes.

Does the value of property need to be at least 200k or 200k down payment?

A very nice, accurate [imho] video. While living in Colombia I went to CR lived in the capital for a month, traveled around and lived on the beach south of Manuel Antonio for a month just to see what life would be like. I traveled in Latin America more than the average person but my Spanish still sucks compared to a native speaker. Now all that said I wanted to throw in a few points because I respect Tico Land very much. 1) if you are not a Spanish speaker then CR is about the best you can do in Latin America [ ....one exception being Belize which is English speaking but Belize is nothing compared to CR unless you are into diving] because everything you can do, want to do, want to know will be predicated on your ability to communicate with the Ticos. Here is the reality. You will never be a Tico, your Spanish will always suck, and even if you live there 50 years and learn fluent Spanish they are never going to accept you as a local. You don't have a membership card. So my point is not to be negative it's to make you think realistically. I met an American from San Diego who has been living full time near San Jose, CR for 25 years, owns a few million dollars of real estate through the country. Operates a small cafe plantation. and even after 25 years and almost never leaving the country with a CR daughter they still won't give him permanent residency. Does that tell you something? You are welcome to visit CR for 1 day to 30 years but the Ticos don't want you to stay. You figure out why. But you better just accept that you are a permanent tourist to them and nothing more and just....live Pura Vida and ignore this crude fact. 2) Latin America has no interest in your suggestions, ideas, opinions, politics, help, ....nothing...forget it...except your money. They love your euros/loonies & your dollars. Again just take this into account and decide if you can be happy with that. 3) English. For good or for bad at this small juncture of time in the world's history English is the international language. It wasn't 100 years ago and it probably won't be 100 in the future. Latinos don't give a cr)p about learning English. This is just a fact. They are perfectly happy to only know their native language, exactly like 95% of Gringos in the USA only speak English. OK. Get it. Don't waste your time trying to get them to learn English. There is no interest. You must learn some Spanish and the more you learn you'll get a few cents of credit from some of the locals but most it will not change anything. All of what I'm saying her in #3 is that Latinos don't have any patience for you whether it's your language or your lack of knowledge of their customs etc. To them you're just an irritaing Gringo soaking up their sunshine....UNLESS you've got a wad of USD in your hand to give or pay them with. Then they are happy to be with you until the transaction is completed and then revert to the previous state. Don't get hurt feelings about it. It's the way Latinos are and they have no reason to change to make you happy. 4) Marrying anyone anywhere in Latin America. I don't care what your gender or preference is just don't marry a local until you've been settled in for a year or five. Doesn't mean you can't enjoy a relationship..they aren't called hot blood Latinos without a reason...just don't get married until you are ready to lose it all and you've relegated the expectation that you don't care any longer as long as you get to die in CR and live the Pura Vida until then. 5) Don't under any circumstances get into a partnership in business with a local and that includes lending money. If you feel that you must make money in Latin America do so in a vehicle like CDs, stocks, bonds, gov regulated land trusts like teak farms, etc. That way you support the economy and it's a good thing but you don't make the mistake of getting into business with a local. I am guaranteeing you that you will regret it and it will probably ruin your relationship with that local if they are a friend. Why? It's always the same issue. In their eyes you have more money than them and therefore you don't deserve to have more than them so it's not immoral for them to relieve you of some of that nasty USD that you have too much of....In short, if you lend them money you will lose a friend or whatever and I will promise you that they will end up hating you for loaning them the money. I've seen it over and over and over and over with Latinos. They borrow and then when they don't want to pay you back they will spend all their spare energy avoiding you while at the same time running all over the countryside to tell everyone that will listen what a horrible f_cker you are. That alone you should avoid because many of the locals don't know you and hearing one nasty thing from another local will never be erased nor forgotten. BTW: I also don't suggest that you GIVE them the money they ask to borrow. Even if you are a millionaire/billionaire it will only result in bad sh)t for you and soon you will have them returning for another gift and all their family and their cousins and you will increase the odds o fgetting mugged exponentially simple because you will be characterized as a person with too much money or too lose with it. Again. No good deed will go unpunished on this subject. Never ever ever tell anyone how much money you have in the bank, stock, pension, NOTHING. Tell them you get a government retired check every month as a retiree and you have to live on that. Of course they won't really believe you but I can promise if you tell them anything every parrot & monkey in the surrounding forest will know it within a week. Gossip is not a hobby in LA it's the law of the culture. 6) if the above sound like negative things then I'm sorry but they are not negative so much as truth through my eyes and experiences traveling, loving and living in Latin America. I'm currently in the Oceana and Asia but I may as yet still retire myself in Latin America so don't think that I'm anti LA..I'm just trying to help. Pros: CR? Fantastic country with fantastic things to explore and fall in love with! wholesome food, great great fruit, lots of exercise, most places have good weather, cheap travel opportunities. Most Gringos have options open that they could never mange in the USA or Canada. Lot s of fun if you learn to have fun in the locally available ways. Horrible TV. Yes you heard me. One of the best things about LA is horrible TV programming so that gets you to do other more healthy things than sit and watch TV every second like in the USA. There are many happy faces in LA and with proper doasing of small amounts of respect, love & a little sprinkling of money a tthe right times you can have some good friends because Latinos love a party and especially if you are kicking in or throwing the party...if you do you better have locks on your interior doors and use them. LOL. What I mean is offering to buy a fresh baby pig for a fiesta if your neighbor will cook it in the local way...now that is a good example of money properly dosed. Occasionally buying local kids [1] piece of candy or a pastry once in awhile spontaneously will make you a superhero to the kids on your street and their parents will hate you less because you are kinds to their kids. Paying for all the food, all the booze and passing out pay day loans at a fiesta with the locals...not the way to dose money...Get it? You must maintain a charade that you are not rich but just getting by and never deviate. Cons: Too many to list...but if you learn you'll not give a sh)t any longer that many things about CR or Latin America are not just perfect because the Latin Life can be very very enjoyable if you can make the transition and learn to not care what the locals say or think about you any more than you care about the crap taxes, politics, etc back in your old home country. It goes both ways if you can learn a new life. Just ignore them, them being anyone in old country or CR that makes you feel bad or unhappy, and enjoy the good parts of live in LA.

thanks

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome!

Great video, helpful information. I only wish you could have mentioned what all you can bring with you when you retire there, including how to get it there. Can you bring a car, a boat? Do they have a port that can unload a container?

@ramonaburns605

5 жыл бұрын

victor van dyke import of a car is too expensive, buy one there...sell all your belongings buy furnishings there.....just bring your most important stuff

@BatYAH2015

5 жыл бұрын

You can bring almost whatever you like. Puntarenas and Limon have ports that ships containers. It takes time and money, but it will get here.

Looking at purchasing in Guanacaste. Considering condo or single family home. Do I have to worry about squatters if I own? Is this problem only on undeveloped land or do I have to worry about it with condos as well? Thanks

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your question. Squatter issues are more common in undeveloped rural areas of Costa Rica where the owner purchases and then leaves the country. If the property is a gated condominium it is generally not an issue.

I was surprised to see you say that the cost of living is high. Maybe I'm reading the wrong things, but CR is touted by International Living and others and being a really low COL country (unless you live right in one of the big cities). BTW, I would be a retiree and have about $2400/month in SSDI.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

@jimCoates thank you for your comment. It is going to depend on what area of the country you are going to live in. In the capital city of San Jose the cost of living can be comparable to some US cities. Mercer which tracks the cost of living around the world has San Jose at 78 out of 209 cities reviewed. Here is the link www.mercer.com/newsroom/2020-cost-of-living.html Now if you move outside of the city and into the countryside then the cost of living can be very low. Also, imported food is expensive so if you can eat locally sourced food at the farmers market then there are substantial savings as well. The best way is to come on down and spend 3-4 months to determine what you like and don't like and the expected living costs. There are also some ex-pat forums about Costa Rica where they share the cost of living information as well from living in different parts of Costa Rica.

who thought about the beach green screen still lives in the early 2000's

How move, or how you stay? 😁

And for the rentista, do you have to have a certain amount of money in your account or do you just have to prove to have 2500 used in your account for the last 2 years or how exactly does that work?

@CostaRicaLaw

2 жыл бұрын

For Rentista the most common way is to get a letter from a recognized bank or financial institution indicating that you will receive $2,500 per month. In Costa Rica. Some local banks that work with the rentista program will issue that letter if you deposit $60k in the bank for 2 years. They will then deposit $2,500 per month to your local account. If you have a bank in your home country that will issue that letter then you can work with that as well.

What about personal security? What are the laws there? Great video 👍

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your feedback. If you are referring to self-defense laws for personal security you will find that the laws on defending oneself are restrictive as is the case in most countries that have civil law systems like Costa Rica.

What is needed is how to set up an annuity without the costs. Many of us have more than enough assets to satisfy them but we sure aren't willing to invest in a country we don't even know, especially if we're not fluent in Spanish. So we need a way of moving a bit of that money into a monthly payment system that looks like an annuity, but isn't really. Something we can change any time, something we have full control over. Its pretty easy to stick with a low cost of living in a foreign country, mainly for the reason we can't bring all our stuff with us. Plus many of us are trying to get more into a minimilistic lifestyle. We've enjoyed the perks of a higher asset life and found it doesn't live up to the glitter. Some of our greatest moments involved the simplest things, often free. In fact, almost always free. Plus, the less you have there the less of a crime target you will be. It vastly reduces the worry factor. Many snowbirds are constantly worrying about the other property. Is it being maintained? Has it been robbed? Is anybody keeping an eye on it?

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Your observations are right on point. We are definitely seeing a move towards a more minimalistic lifestyle with nature and quality outdoor living. That smaller footprint does in fact reduce the worry factor as you have indicated since no major headaches to deal with. The closest to the annuity concept that we have is the Rentista program but it still requires a cash deposit of $60,000 which you then can withdraw at the rate of $2,500 per month for 2 years. So, it allows you to use your funds as you see fit and you do get residency. Now once you withdraw the $60k after 2 years it would require another deposit of $60k to able to renew the residency status. You would have to do that only once at the end of the 2nd year since you can then switch residency categories at the end of the 3rd year to Permanent Residency which does not require proof of any income at all. Then you could collapse the deposit completely. I like your idea of an annuity type program. The government is going to have to get creative to attract quality expats to spend their retirement income in the country. Thank you for your comments.

@bobhoskins9595

3 жыл бұрын

@@CostaRicaLaw Barbados is focusing on drawing in long term residents ($2000+ visa cost!). Other countries will probably follow. They want foreign money but don't want the virus being brought in so the less in/out traffic the better for the country. They want people to come, bring their money and stay for at least several months. Plus, if people are staying for a long time there is much less resistance to an initial quarantine for 2 weeks or so. Then at the end of that they can test you to be sure. This would be very comprehensive. Costa Rica is good for this because people that are sensitive to sweltering heat at hottest time of the year can move up to higher elevations for a few months. And a lot of older people with lots of money are in this demographic. I bet many, once experiencing a saner temperature range would elect to stay there all the time. And if they want the beach for a day they can make a trip down to it without a great hassle.

Manana = Later! Fresh food is awesome, as are friendly people.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your comment Manana = Later Yes it is !

High cost of living???? Try live in Vancouver BC Canada

@franciscobarrantes7150

5 жыл бұрын

@MysteryFan My friend, there is North America, Central America and South America. Costa Rica is in Central America. If you mean high crime in Colombia and Brazil, both in South America yes, you are right. All expats I know living here are really enjoying it, very low living cost, free universal health care and no army since 1948. You are welcome to come down and see it yourself. I'll pay the first whisky :-)

@franciscobarrantes7150

5 жыл бұрын

My friend, there is North America, Central America and South America. Costa Rica is in Central America. If people mean high crime in Colombia and Brazil, both in South America yes, they are right. All expats I know living here are really enjoying it, very low living cost, free universal health care and no army since 1948. You are welcome to come down and see it yourself. I'll pay the first whisky :-)

@deanchampion6777

4 жыл бұрын

I live in Boston. Don't even talk about the "high cost of living".... with me. However - I will say this. The uber/taxis are dirt cheap. Food you buy direct "off the street" from the people who grew it is dirt cheap (and AMAZING) - even hotels are very reasonable (had a penthouse sized monster "suite" with full kitchen for a little over $50/day) - but if you go out to a "really nice" restaurant - expect North American "big city" prices. If you wish to buy a house - expect the same, unless you're in the sticks.

@bobhoskins9595

3 жыл бұрын

@@deanchampion6777 Exactly. In very local it takes a while to get what you need at a very reasonable cost. You have to be patient and talk with lots of people. A lot of people stick to themselves and grumble and complain then wonder why they feel so disconnected!

@vittoriocostantini5808

3 жыл бұрын

I'VE BEEN IN CENTRAL AMERICA FOR 30 YEARS NOW. 8 YEARS IN NICARAGUA, 4 YEARS IN PANAMA, AND THE LAST 17 YEARS IN COSTA RICA. IF YOU WANT VALUE FOR MONEY GO TO PANAMA. IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SPEND MUCH THEN GO TO NICARAGUA. IF YOU WANT THE MOST EXOTIC LOCATION THEN IT'S COSTA RICA, BUT YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR IT. ALL 3 COUNTRIES IN MY OPINION RANK EQUAL IN SAFETY.

Hola mi esposo es americano pero yo costarricence podria explicar como aplicar a residencia costarricence por este medio. Gracias.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Hola y gracias por tu pregunta. Tu esposo puede solicitar la residencia temporal bajo la categoría de Vinculo con Cónyuge Costarricense. Puedes ver los requisitos completos en el resumen oficial de migración con el enlace que te adjunto. Igualmente esa categoría la puedes tramitar, cuando tengas todos los documentos de soporte mediante la plataforma digital de migración que ha sido activada para tramitar por vinculo familiar. Ese sitio es tramiteya.go.cr/dgme/ Requisitos pro Vinculo Familiar: www.migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Categor%c3%ada%20Migratorias%20%28Extranjer%c3%ada%29/Categor%c3%adas%20Especiales/Residencias%20Temporales/V%c3%adnculo%20con%20C%c3%b3nyuge%20Costarricense.pdf

wouldnt everybody be considered rich out there? 2000$ out there is = to 1,000,000 out there?

Is there any chance of obtaining temporary Costa Rican residency via a Costa Rican consulate before arriving in Costa Rica?

@CostaRicaLaw

2 жыл бұрын

I don't believe that option is available at the moment. If you look at the website of the Costa Rica Embassy in Washington, D.C. it indicates that temporary residency "you are required to apply for these types of residency at the Immigration Office in Costa Rica" Here is the link: www.costarica-embassy.org/index.php?q=node/147

How can I make contact with the expat community in Costa Rica. We’re from Canada and we’re coming for a Holliday in March.

@CostaRicaLaw

Жыл бұрын

Hi Jean. There are dozens of expat groups in the different areas of Costa Rica that are popular with expats. The easiest would be to search for Facebook groups with Costa Rica expat focus. In the San Ramon (Central Valley Area) there is the Community Action Alliance. www.actionalliancecr.com/

btw, you are like a voice doppleganger for Tim Allen the actor haha

@NandoDisco

2 жыл бұрын

Omg you’re right haha

Roger can I get your book in hard copy vs kindle?

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Hi thank you for your question. I am working on the hard copy but not quite there yet. So my apologies but all I have for now is the digital version sold through Amazon

Dude, i can't tell which is your native language? 🤣 Smoooooth 😎

@CostaRicaLaw

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting. Grew up with both languages at home.

Hello, and thanks for the video. I love it there. I live in Oregon but work remotely so I can live anywhere. My salary is high. Would I be able to move there permanently and still draw my income from the US? Also, if I were to drive there would I be able to re-register my car in Costa Rica?

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

Hello and thank you for your comment. Yes absolutely. Many people do it. They live in Costa Rica and work remotely for companies outside of Costa Rica.

@haroldlawrance9171

4 жыл бұрын

@@CostaRicaLaw thanks. Would this allow me citizenship?

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

@@haroldlawrance9171 I updated the residency article for 2020 as a step by step guide. I am attaching the link below. Also a link to the citizenship article. You first need to qualify for one of the temporary residency categories then after 3 years you can change to permanent residency and only after 7 years can you apply for citizenship. costaricalaw.com/costa-rica-legal-topics/immigration-and-residency/how-to-apply-for-residency-in-costa-rica-a-step-by-step-guide/ costaricalaw.com/costa-rica-legal-topics/immigration-and-residency/how-to-get-citizenship-in-costa-rica/

@haroldlawrance9171

4 жыл бұрын

@@CostaRicaLaw this is very helpful. Thanks!

Social Security how to file IRS

The cost of living is not so high. But cars and fuel are incredible expensive. There are no adresses. And most of cities are not clean. There are bars on every house. Nature and most of people are wonderful.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your observations. It is matter of finding a balance between the positive and negative aspects of living in Costa Rica. As you point out we have some very wonderful features but also some negative ones.

@arte7sol

2 жыл бұрын

It is very expensive. You need to look for an actual living area away from tourist areas. And still it is expensive. I'm comparing to NYC. In some cases I found similar cost to dine out. Gas it's currently $$ more so than in the USA.

@arte7sol

2 жыл бұрын

Airbnb... "the house with a green street sign". Where? "You will see the green sign" 🤯🤪

What if I was born in San Jose, but moved to the USA and became a citizen. Am I still considered a costarican citizen or do I need a visa to move back and live/retire there. I have my cedula number but never actually got one.

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

If you were born in Costa Rica you are a Costa Rican citizen by birth. When you are in Costa Rica you can go to the Registro Civil and apply for your Cedula de Identidad and you are done.

@lazarosalazar3366

5 жыл бұрын

@@CostaRicaLaw thank you very much.

What do you mean when you say irrevocable when speaking about rentistas?

@CostaRicaLaw

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your question. It is basically parroting the exact language in the law which requires the applicant to prove that they will receive income in Costa Rica in a stable and irrevocable manner for at least 2 years. The government wants to ensure you don't get approved and move to Costa Rica and then don't have the income source that you applied with.

I am hoping to get Temp. Residency soon. The said I have to Pay $250 each month for CAJA. I applied through Rentista. However I am going to get early retirement. I am 60. I will bring monthly money for 2 years which is $60K . But as a senior and Retiree $250 pm for CAJA is too much/ Any opportunity to appeeal to CR Govt. to reduce monthly CAJA? Thx. Kajal. Toronto

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

If you applied for Rentista then it looks like they used the $2,500 as the basis for your income with CCSS. It is difficult to argue that your income is less when that was the basis of your application. Your option would be to have a local CPA certify your living expenses and then down the line go back in to the CCSS office which is responsible for your account and request a reduction based on your net income. Otherwise you would have to wait for the 3 years of rentista and then switch to Permanent Residency and that would change your income presumption since you would no longer be a rentista.

My wife and I are almost 60 and want out of The U.S. and retire somewhere peaceful and warm. We easily meet the financial qualification, but it's the health care that is holding us back. How do we retain U.S. citizenship, receive Costa Rican health care and still remain eligible for our U.S. social security since we've paid into it for so long . TY

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

Yes, health care is a major consideration for those retiring to Costa Rica and requires research to find the right fit. Some expats use an international health care policy which can be expensive but does provide major medical coverage. Then they will pay for local private doctors in Costa Rica out of pocket or purchase a local insurance policy that gives them access to the private hospitals. All foreign residents with approved residency must pay into and will have access to the public health care system as well.

I recv over 2k per month in SSDI, am single and have no other financial commitments, can I live comfortably in a nice community? I do plan on traveling there early 2020...

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

Hello and thank you for your comment. I would suggest you come down and spend at least a month or two to get a feel for the country and determine if you can live here comfortably with your SSDI. There are many options around the country and the cost of living varies significantly depending on the area and the lifestyle. The best way is to come on down and test it.

I married a Tica 2 years ago, is it difficult for me to get a residency or citizenship?

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

No it should not be difficult if you comply with the legal requirements. You are eligible for residency based on marriage to a Costa Rican citizen. This is the official requirement sheet from Immigration: www.migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Categor%C3%ADa%20Migratorias%20(Extranjer%C3%ADa)/Categor%C3%ADas%20Especiales/Residencias%20Temporales/V%C3%ADnculo%20con%20C%C3%B3nyuge%20Costarricense.pdf You are also eligible for citizenship based on marriage to a Costa Rican citizen. Here is the official requirement list from the Civil Registry of Costa Rica. www.tse.go.cr/pdf/requisitosytramites/Naturalizacion-por-matrimonio.pdf It is always best to consult with an Attorney regarding your specific case and circumstances so they can advise you in more detail based on your case. The information above is for general guidance.

and the pension i believed was raised to 1500 but not 100% sure

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

The pension has not been changed. It is US$1,000 per month. I am attaching the brochure which is issued by immigration for reference. migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Categor%C3%ADa%20Migratorias%20(Extranjer%C3%ADa)/Categor%C3%ADas%20Especiales/Residencias%20Temporales/Pensionado%20y%20Dependientes.pdf

Residency is easy if im married to a tico? Or work just the same?

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

You need the same documents (birth certificate, police background, marriage) as the other categories but currently if you are married to a Costa Rican citizen you can apply using the online platform so at least you can initiate the filing without needing an appointment to do so like is currently required for the other Temporary Residency categories

where can I search for real estate lots on the west coast of CR? Something like Zillow.

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

Hi. Thank you for your question about obtaining comparative values for real estate in Costa Rica. We do not have a system such as Zillow yet because for many years values were underreported so the information was no accurate. That is slowly changing but not quite there yet. Also we do not have a centralized Multiple Listing System among real estate agent s. You can view the government tax valuarion maps as a reference and the cross check with realtors websites in the area you are looking.

What are the valid sources that can be used to provide a letter to verify the $2500 a month? Can that come from a employer or does this have to come from a bank verifying distribution of the $2500 from savings etc?

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

The US$2,500 requirement for Rentista Category should come from a bank or financial institution verifying that you will receive that amount as income in a permanent and stable manner for the next 2 years. It can be a bank in your country if it is willing to issue the letter in the form required by Immigration or using a Costa Rican bank where you can deposit $60,000 and the local bank will then issue the letter to you that it will disburse those $60,000 back to you in payments of $2,500 per month.

@justinshaw6173

3 жыл бұрын

@@CostaRicaLaw Roger thank you for the detailed and prompt reply. You've confirmed the information I had found but came across some (mis)information that was causing me some confusion. Much appreciated!

@justinshaw6173

3 жыл бұрын

Watching your other video on 2021 upate, I think this is what I had come across. Ability to get a visa if you have an online business, I see that in your video too now (Digital Nomad visa) I just looked this up and it *seems* to have been approved or very close? ...this is incredible news!

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the questions. I try and keep my rentista summary up to date on this link here: costaricalaw.com/costa-rica-legal-topics/immigration-and-residency/how-to-apply-for-residency-in-costa-rica-a-step-by-step-guide/ Also you will see a link there to be able to download a free Immigration guide that I have put together for 2021. As rules and regulations change then I will update them on the blog as well.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, as to the Digital Nomad law it looks promising in that it seems to have full legislative support. I am monitoring that proposal as well and when they have updates I will post that also. Thank you for bringing up that question.

Is there full time work for RN there? I'm single and ready to make a change in my life.

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your question. Working as an RN for a foreigner would require special work visas to do so. There is no shortgage of RN in Costa Rica as is the case in other countries so the wages are not that high either.

I was told that Medicare is accepted in Costa Rico - is this true?

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

Medicare is currently not available in Costa Rica for US citizens living in Costa Rica.

Can you move to Costa rica if your from the UK?

@arte7sol

2 жыл бұрын

Yes. I met folks from UK in different towns.

How do you get good title?

@CostaRicaLaw

2 жыл бұрын

Hire a Real Estate Attorney that is also a licensed Notary Public and they will do the due diligence on the title to the property you are purchasing. Once they complete their title review they will let you know the results and then draft a property transfer deed. Only a licensed Costa Rican Notary can file title transfer deeds in the property recording office to transfer title from a seller to a buyer.

manana is very south florida...lol

Can a retired American who has moved to CR and is receiving Social Security work legally there?

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Hi. If you apply as a Pensionado Resident that is considered a temporary residency category and you are not allowed to work for re-numeration which means you cannot work for a salary. Once you have had temporary residency for 3 years you can switch to permanent residency and then you can work without restrictions.

@ulysses1904

3 жыл бұрын

@@CostaRicaLaw Great, thanks very much.

Manana simply means, not today.

So if I’m not retired, receiving some kind of income, or investing I can’t move there ?

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

There are other options related to work visas or entrepreneurial visas which you could explore as well. Here is the full list of residency options available and detailed on the Department of Immigration website migracion.go.cr/extranjeros/residencias.html#HERMES_TABS_1_1

@Time2Live.online

5 жыл бұрын

Hey Diana, one other way to get residency he that the gentleman in the video did not mention, is the way I got mine. I married a Costarican. You don'y have to marry for love, I've met lawyers who will do all the paper work and set up a marriage contract that will automaticly file the divorce papers after 2 years... If you're already married to someone just don't mention it. Nobody really cares.

@TwistedMetal51

5 жыл бұрын

Jonathon Gaug law firm name?

@superkb172

5 жыл бұрын

Marco Antonio You didn’t get the cost ;-)

@Time2Live.online

5 жыл бұрын

@@TwistedMetal51 Sorry they were just lawyers I met hanging out in a bar on the beach, I was already married so I didn't ask for names. When you come here just ask around, there's plenty of lawyers who can do this. I heard the going rate was a couple hundred bucks, but that was quite a few years ago.

Any tips on finding a job in Costa Rica?

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

If you have a residency permit that allows you to work then attending a job fair such as the CINDE job fair sponsored by the Costa Rican Investment Development and Promotion department is a good start. Here is the link: facebook.com/CindeJobs/ If you do not have residency with a work permit then you will need to find an employer that is willing to hire you and then process your work permit you.

@ameliachronis1325

5 жыл бұрын

get a tefl qualification and teach English. Call centres are very popular with people that speak English too.

Mañana 🤪🤣

Jajaja si, si 😂 los huecos en la calle. Son una renta para los que tienen carro. Like

I hope I retired on my lindo country some day , 🇨🇷👍

What’s the law for owning weapons in your house or to carry with you?

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

It is restrictive. You need to have permanent residency status or be a citizen to own a weapon in Costa Rica. To carry the weapon you need to apply for a carry permit that requires a psychological evaluation and other testing. I am attaching a link to the article I wrote about it for my blog. costaricalaw.com/costa-rica-legal-topics/security-and-guns/new-gun-control-law-in-costa-rica/

@gordondean2165

4 жыл бұрын

@@CostaRicaLaw so most USA gun freaks wouldn't make it.

@BewareOfTheKraut

4 жыл бұрын

@@gordondean2165 That's definitely a plus.

wow this is a an amazing video your amazing can have your 0hone ###

Typing these questions out as they come up. Inversionista status - If we (we being my family and my in laws) come into country and purchase a multigenerational home, something bigger where we all can live, would we all qualify for inversionista status, would it just be the primary names on the loan (assuming loans vs cash payments qualify) would it just be the largest payer of the loan, would immediate family qualify? Tranquilo - Does this apply in employment too? If I am late because of some critical government task that took a few hours do employers tend to factor this in? Also what is it like finding employment there for someone who can't retire as a pensionista and would need to work locally to sustain income?

@MandarinMaganeto

2 жыл бұрын

You can apply foy any status if you meet the requirements he said. And Tranquilo way dosn't apply to work in almost any company, it only applies in you are an independant worker. In order to get a job here almost a most do is speak spanish and you have to validate your studies with the MEP (Mimisterio de Educación Pública ) it is the oficcial body that is in charge of Education in the country and besides that you need a University here that validates your studies too acording to Costa Rican minimum studies plan or pensum to get a Universitary degree. And if you not meet then ,you probably are going to take the left courses and get the degree. Spanish is a most in most and best universities.

Based on a true story, my new book "Panama Dreaming- The Birth of Soursop Hostel" to be released soon! Check it out @ www.amazon.com/Nicholas-Gagnier/e/B08FJJ2YBY?ref_=dbs_p_ebk_w0m_abau_000000&fbclid=IwAR1Z1T2-gKTy5dyuKhfM8LJp0HpXfeBq1beBhCVCSwwjDIdQ2_qiXIXdK2w SoursopHostel.com

The benefits Far out weigh the negatives as far as Im concerned and i know you can live cheaper if you know how LEARN SPANISH a must

@luismora441

4 жыл бұрын

Not realy a must, due that they speak litle ingles too , 🇨🇷👍

I did not hear him mention that you can marry a costarican and have no other qualifications.

Been here three times, twice in the "dry season" (Nov. - February)... I've now been here for two weeks (mid May), and I think that it has rained all or part of all but two of the days I've been here. I asked some locals if this was normal. They said, "Yes". I asked, how long (months) will this continue - they said, through October. Ouch. That's worse than London or Spokane, WA. Loved it when it was dry and sunny.... but gray skies 6 days out of 7 aren't my idea of an awesome retirement. Not trying to be a "downer", but damn... that's a lot of rain. Been to Fiji as well. They're good for a 2 hour shower every afternoon, but the rest of the time (before and after the rain) - sunshine. Two hours a day was nice, with sunshine the rest of the day, but gray skies 90% of the time AND rain during much of it.... is just a bit much.

@CostaRicaLaw

5 жыл бұрын

Yes. That sounds about right for the month of May. The Costa Rican Weather Institute (Instituto Meteorlógico Nacional) keeps stats on climate in Costa Rica including rainfall. The link is attached www.imn.ac.cr/en/inicio

@teraross

5 жыл бұрын

Dean - you do know it's a Rain Forest right. : )

@cosmicroyaltyX7

4 жыл бұрын

Dean Champion so it does that raining for six months? I’m coming from west coast would be hard for me

@cosmicroyaltyX7

4 жыл бұрын

CostaRicaLaw so it’s true it rains six months?

@deanchampion6777

4 жыл бұрын

@@cosmicroyaltyX7 : Good Lord, little girl... I saw your avatar and just completely lost my own train of thought... [shake head, slap own face... maybe more than once... okay a few more times...] Sorry... um, back with you. Right now CR (Costa Rica) is "closed". IF you could find a flight out of the US. For now JUST STAY INSIDE AND DON"T DIE. BUT, when the virus relents. The "best" months are apparently ... I think, our "austral summer"... basically our winter. I've been there in Nov., Jan, and May. November and January were probably my favorites - drier, sunnier... May was rainy season - started with a couple of hours of sunshine every morning - then, just dismal and depressing. There is a lake up near volcano and I thought - "Hey, that must be AWESOME in the summer". No. Summer sucks. RAIN, RAIN, RAIN - no windsurfing, no waterskiing, no "tanning" on "the beach"... just gray skies and rain. Sorry, didn't mean to "rain" on your parade... LOL

I just want to rent! I am retired and make 60k per year,I don't want to own anymore

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

Sure. You have an ample range of rental options in Costa Rica and with that income you can live very well in Costa Rica.

Move to aircraft.... 😁

im sold brother, how can an english white boy make some money out there?

@attilaszemerei6838

5 жыл бұрын

good question, I also would like to know that ... I am Austrian and white and have never worked in turism, so what other possibilities can we have???

@TheRaindogger

5 жыл бұрын

Daytrade. Can do it from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection.

@vanlife705

5 жыл бұрын

@@TheRaindogger tried that loss a bunch of cash

@ameliachronis1325

5 жыл бұрын

get a tefl qualification and teach English.

@ramonaburns605

5 жыл бұрын

Workin there will be very hard, u have no choice but to work online......remember u are the outsider there lol

Traffic is insane.....everyone out to rip you off even sady Americans

Thank you so much for your video - very helpful - The majority of my retirement is invested in the stock market - would my Ameritrade account which is above $200M quality me for residency - Pura Vida

@CostaRicaLaw

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your feedback and your question. If you can get your bank to issue a letter indicating that you will receive the sum of US$2,500 per month in Costa Rica in a permanent and stable manner for the next two years and have that apostilled then that is what you would need for Rentista residency. Otherwise you can deposit $60k in a Costa Rican bank and they will issue the letter for you and that is all you would need.

If other countries so great so good why many citizens from other countries wanted to come to the US and the EU with all cost. ? I think no countries like your own if you're an American citizen is better to stay in the US.

@CostaRicaLaw

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your comment. Good point. I think different people look for different life experiences at different stages of their life. The best way to figure out what is best for you is to explore your options and compare and then make a decision if leaving your country is for you or not.

@NaturalMystic69

4 жыл бұрын

I've lived in Toronto Canada for about 40 years and am tired of the long winters, traffic and corporate rat race. I was born in Trinidad, lived there til 18, and go back regularly for vacation and to see family. CR sounds to me like a nice mix of the two. Access to some North American amenities, a thriving exPat community, and the slower paced tropical vibe, but without the crime that Trinidad has been experiencing.

I was in Costa Rica way too overrated. Way too primitive in terms of resorts infrastructure.

Puerto Rico is the best tax haven for U.S. citizens. Better than Panama, Portugal, etc. There is a good analysis on relocatepuertorico.com/

Its ironic we dont have same rules in US for immigrants but CR insists 200k investments? wow 2500 a month income to rent? Wow! Let me get this right Costa Ricans dont want anyone who does not have enough money! but they can flood US border suck US medical welfare systems dry with zero savings! Brilliant! We should copy CR rules.

@cosmicroyaltyX7

4 жыл бұрын

Ruben Sahakian our money stretches farther so I assume we only need 4000 USD to buy a 200k property with dollar conversion

@jonathanquesada5275

4 жыл бұрын

Costa Ricans never flooded the US border pal, (you are making a huge generalization about Latinos) maybe you should check your data before talk nonsense like a keyboard warrior wannabe.

These qualifications are interesting. All you have to do to legally enter the USA is hop over the border. Obviously the USA has a more advanced civilization than Costa Rica.

@ridgid859

5 жыл бұрын

It's commonplace to require visas to travel for many countries. Although I did find it bizarre that in costa Rica I had to pay a marginal fee to leave the country.