10 Things to Do After You Move to Costa Rica: A Guide for Expats and Retirees

Congratulations on deciding to make Costa Rica your new home! With its stunning landscapes, friendly people, and vibrant culture, Costa Rica offers a fulfilling and relaxed lifestyle that many expats and retirees find irresistible. However, once you’ve made the big move, the question becomes: What’s next? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the initial steps after moving to Costa Rica.

1. Finding a Home: Renting or Buying?

Renting a Home

Renting is a practical first step for new arrivals. It gives you the flexibility to explore different areas and get a feel for the community before making a long-term commitment. Popular expat destinations include:

Escazú/Santa Ana: Known for their upscale amenities and proximity to San José.
City of Heredia: A welcoming and charming university town
Atenas: Offers a small-town feel with a welcoming expat community.
Guanacaste: Famous for its beautiful beaches and warmer climate.

Tips for Renting:

Use Reputable Real Estate Agents: Avoid scams by working with established agents.
Your lawyer should look at the contract.
Inspect the Property: Check for issues like water pressure and internet connectivity.
Understand the Lease: Ensure you understand the terms, especially regarding deposits and rent increases.

Buying a Home

If you’re certain about staying long-term, buying might be a good option. Property prices vary widely, so it’s essential to research and understand the market.

Steps to Buy a Property:

Hire a Lawyer: A local attorney can help you navigate the legal aspects.
Get a Home Inspection: Ensure the property is in good condition.
Secure Financing: Not easy to do here. Better to use your equity from home or the money from a sale of a home.
Due diligence is important

2. Setting Up Utilities

Once you have a place to live, setting up utilities is the next crucial step. Costa Rica offers various providers for water, electricity, internet, and cable services.

Key Utilities to Set Up:

Electricity: Provided by ICE or local cooperatives.
Water: Generally managed by local municipalities.
Internet and Cable: Popular providers include Kolbi, Tigo, and Claro.

Tips for Utilities:

Bring Documents: Have your ID and proof of residency ready.
Plan for Installation Delays: Installation can take time, especially in rural areas.

3. Getting a Phone and Internet

A local phone and reliable internet are essential for staying connected with family and friends, as well as navigating your new environment.

Choosing a Provider:

Kolbi: State-owned and offers broad coverage.
Claro: Known for competitive pricing.
LibertyCR formerly known as Movistar: Provides good service in urban areas.

Tips for Setting Up:

Check Coverage: Ensure your chosen provider has good coverage in your area.
Consider Prepaid Plans: They are flexible and don’t require a long-term commitment.

4. Buying a Car

Owning a car can make exploring Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes much easier. Whether you choose to buy new or used, there are several steps involved. Bus travel is easy and affordable if you don’t want a car.

Steps to Buying a Car:

Research Models: Consider the terrain; an SUV might be ideal.
Check Legal Requirements: Ensure the car has a current Marchamo (annual vehicle circulation permit) and Riteve (technical vehicle inspection).
Hire a Lawyer for the Transaction: They can help with the legal paperwork and transfer of ownership.

Tips for Car Ownership:

Get Car Insurance: It’s mandatory and protects against accidents and theft.
Understand Maintenance: Be prepared for maintenance costs, which can be higher than in the US or Europe.

5. Locating Grocery Stores

Finding places to shop for groceries is crucial for settling into daily life. Costa Rica offers a variety of options, from large supermarkets to local farmers’ markets.

Popular Grocery Stores:

Auto Mercado: Offers a wide selection of international products.
Walmart: Known for its convenience and competitive pricing.
Pricesmart: Warehouse-style shopping like Costco
Local Ferias (Outdoor Farmers Markets): Great for fresh produce and supporting local farmers.

Tips for Shopping:

Learn Some Spanish: It can make shopping easier and more enjoyable.
Bring Your Own Bags: Many stores charge for plastic bags, and reusable ones are more eco-friendly.

6. Exploring Healthcare Options

Costa Rica is known for its excellent healthcare system, which includes both public and private options.

Healthcare Systems:

Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS): The public system, available to all residents.
Private Healthcare: Offers faster service and access to a broader range of specialists.

Steps to Access Healthcare:

Enroll in CCSS: As a resident, you’ll need to contribute to the public system.
Consider Private Insurance: It can complement CCSS and provide additional coverage.

Finding a Hospital or Clinic:

San José: Home to some of the best private hospitals, like Clínica Bíblica, Metropolitan and CIMA. Also, the 4 best public hospitals ae found there.
Regional Hospitals: Available throughout the country, though quality may vary.

7. Meeting Other Expats

Building a social network is important for feeling at home. Costa Rica has a large and welcoming expat community.

Ways to Meet Expats:

Join Expat Groups: Facebook groups like “Expats in Costa Rica” are great for making connections.
Attend Local Events: Check out meetups, language exchanges, and community events.
Volunteer: Get involved in local charities and initiatives.

Tips for Socializing:

Be Open and Friendly: Costa Ricans are known for their warmth and hospitality.
Learn About Local Customs: Understanding local etiquette can help you integrate more easily.

8. Applying for Residence

Securing legal residence is a crucial step for long-term stay in Costa Rica. There are various types of residency, depending on your situation.

Types of Residency:

Pensionado: For retirees with a pension.
Rentista: For those with stable income from investments or savings.
Inversionista: For those who invest a significant amount in the country.

Steps to Apply:

Gather Documentation: This includes proof of income, background checks, and health insurance.
Submit Your Application: You can apply through the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería or use a residency lawyer.
Wait for Approval: The process can take several months, so patience is key.

Tips for Residency Application:

Start Early: Begin the process before your tourist visa expires.
Hire a Professional: Consider using a lawyer who specializes in residency or service to navigate the complexities.

9. Getting a Driver’s License

Driving in Costa Rica requires a valid local driver’s license. Here’s how to get one.

Steps to Get a License:

Convert Your Foreign License: If you have a valid license from your home country, you can convert it.
Medical Exam: A basic health check is required for all applicants.
Pass the Test: You may need to take a written and practical exam.

Tips for the License Process:

Understand the Requirements: Different countries have different agreements with Costa Rica.
Check Expiry Dates: Ensure your home country license is valid and hasn’t expired.

10. Setting Up a Bank Account

Having a local bank account makes managing finances easier and can be necessary for various transactions.

Choosing a Bank:

Banco Nacional: One of the largest banks with extensive services.
Banco de Costa Rica (BCR): Known for its reliability and customer service.
BAC Credomatic: Offers various financial products tailored to expats.

Steps to Open an Account:

Provide Identification: Passport and proof of residence.
Deposit Funds: Some accounts require an initial deposit.
Complete the Paperwork: Be prepared for some bureaucracy.

Tips for Banking:

Learn Banking Terms in Spanish: This will make the process smoother.
Choose the Right Account: Consider the fees, interest rates, and services offered.

Conclusion

Moving to Costa Rica is an exciting adventure, but getting settled involves a series of important steps. By following this guide, you can smoothly transition into your new life and start enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer. From finding a home to meeting new friends, every step is a chance to embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle that makes Costa Rica so special. Welcome home!