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Last checked by our editors: November 3, 2026. Immigration and tax rules change; use this page to organize questions for an immigration lawyer and the official agencies.
Stage 1: before you commit
- Visit for a few weeks in the season you would actually live there.
- Read the residency categories on the Migración site and note the documents each requires.
- Check how your pension, income or business would be taxed here and at home.
- Decide on healthcare: public CCSS contribution rules, private care, or both. See Costa Rica Med for a navigation guide.
Stage 2: documents
- Birth and marriage certificates, police record and similar documents usually need an apostille or legalization and, if not in Spanish, an official translation.
- Ask the receiving agency which documents it accepts and how recent they must be.
- Keep digital and paper copies.
Stage 3: arrival month
- Arrange short-term lodging first and a long-term home after you know the area.
- Open utilities and a local phone plan; see Everyday Services.
- Learn the process for banking: banks usually ask for ID and proof of address or income.
- Register your vehicle or plan your driving: see the driving checklist.
Shipping belongings
Customs rules for household goods, vehicles and pets are handled by the Ministerio de Hacienda and other agencies. Ask a licensed customs broker for a written quote and check the Hacienda site.
Need a lawyer or notary?
Many steps (residency applications, company formation, property transfers) involve a lawyer or notary. Ask for a written scope of work and fee estimate before you sign. For property purchases, see Housing.