FAQs | Moving to Costa Rica | Living in Costa Rica | Retire in Costa Rica

Frequently Asked Questions

Living Out Your Retirement in Costa Rica

Can I adapt to life in Costa Rica, is moving there really a viable option? 

For many retirees Costa Rica has become a home away from home. It’s important to note that moving to Costa Rica and adapting to the lifestyle is something that is very much relative to each individual.

Before you consider retiring in Costa Rica it might be worth thinking about why you want to make the move in the first place and what your expectations are. For many people who have visited Costa Rica on vacation, a move to this paradise country seems very appealing. But before you begin your retirement plans and start heading for Costa Rica it might be worth considering the following. 

1. Can I afford to move to Costa Rica and will my pension suffice?

Many retirees consider moving to Costa Rica and other Central American countries with the hope that their cost of living will be considerably lower. Making the initial move to Costa Rica will require an initial outlay that you need to budget for. Applying for residency requires a considerable amount of paperwork and proof that you are financially stable. Please refer to the Cost of Living section to learn more about how you can determine your monthly expenses whilst living in Costa Rica.

2. Where is the best place for me to retire in Costa Rica, taking into account climate and access to medical care and other facilities?

Carry out research about Costa Rica and its different climates and try and find out which is best suited to you. The South and Central Pacific of Costa Rica are particularly notable for warm temperatures during the day and cool temperatures at night and rainy season runs from May through to November. 

In terms of access to medical facilities the South Pacific community has a new hospital with modern facitilies. Hospital de Osa is located just fifteen minutes from Playa Ojochal. 

In the Central Valley Hospital CIMA and Hospital Clinica Biblica are notable for servicing the large expat community. Costa Rica is a top destination for medical travel including cosmetic and dental surgery so retiring in this beautiful country also has other benefits.

3. Am I accepting of different cultures other to that of my own?

Retiring in Costa Rica is a fantastic opportunity, but to really enjoy life to the fullest in this laid back paradise you should become familiar with the culture and local customs. It is easy to be over critical of a way of life that you are not used to, but try to remember why you decided to make the move in the first place. As with many other countries around the world certain procedures may seem over complicated and surrounded by red tape. For many people, the first step to a happy retirement in Costa Rica is acceptance of a slower paced life.

4. Do I expect Costa Rica to offer the same privileges I get in my own country?

Although for some people this can be quite difficult to gauge, commodities and privileges vary depending on where you choose to live in Costa Rica. Recognized as one of the most advanced countries in Latin America, Costa Rica is up to speed on all the latest gizmos and gadgets. Largely due to import tax, be prepared to pay considerably more for electrical domestics and home entertainment systems.

5. I am capable of living a slower paced lifestyle?

After your fast paced life in the city can you adjust to a slower paced lifestyle living in Costa Rica? The simple answer to this is yes, but as with many things, it will take time to adjust. If you have lived in the U.S or Europe for most of your life you may have become accustomed to a much faster paced lifestyle with little time left to do the things you love. Retiring to Costa Rica is an excellent opportunity to enjoy life doing the things you really want to do with your time. Opting out of what many people term the “rat race,” can become difficult if you continue to believe that everything needs to be done yesterday. When you move to Costa Rica be prepared to follow up on applications and enquiries right through to completion.

• Do a lot of people return home after they have moved to Costa Rica?

Yes, a lot of people do return home after they have moved to Costa Rica. The vast majority fall in love with the paradise landscape and beautiful sunsets. Only having spent a minimal time in Costa Rica they have falling in love with the idea of an endless vacation. Before you set your heart on retiring to Costa Rica make sure you try to spend as much time here as possible, at least six months, avoid purchasing property unless it is for investment, do your research and don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions.

• Do I really need to learn Spanish?

Yes, although a lot of retirees can live a daily existence in Costa Rica without uttering a word of Spanish, it’s always recommendable to learn the local lingo. If you are going to be going to the bank, buying groceries, property and travelling around this beautiful country you should learn how to speak Spanish. Although learning a second language can be difficult, think of it as a new opportunity to communicate with Costa Ricans and really feel part of their culture.

Visas, Immigration and Residency 

• Do I need a visa to retire in Costa Rica? 

• What do I need to do to apply for residency? 

• How long can I expect the process to take?

Making the move to Costa Rica 

• Can I move my household items to Costa Rica? 

• Can I take my pets to Costa Rica? 

• Should I take my car to Costa Rica?