Purchasing Real Estate in Costa Rica can present many pitfalls to the would-be expat purchaser. As a practicing Real Estate Attorney in Costa Rica, I have seen many of these pitfalls, often presented to me for resolution by expats after the damage is done. One of the main items for [...]
What is the Difference in the Due Diligence Required when Buying a Building Lot? When you purchase a completed home, issues such as the correct zoning, the availability of utilities, and access, are most likely not to be in issue. Your main concerns will be to obtain a reliable Home [...]
Is Joint Tenancy Property Title Registration Available in Costa Rica? In English Common Law Jurisdictions, such as Canada and the United States, registering a Property Title in Joint Tenancy as between a husband and a wife is the norm. Joint Tenancy embodies the principle of Right of Survivorship. This principle [...]
How is the Banking Process for Foreigners in Costa Rica? Banking policy varies from bank to bank in Costa Rica, just as it does in countries like Canada and the U.S. However, generally speaking, banks are more tightly regulated by the Government Banking Regulatory Authority, SUGEF, The General Superintendent of [...]
As a foreigner living in Costa Rica and meeting the Immigration Law requirements to work, the Income Tax Laws only apply to income, whether it be income derived from salary, wages, investment, or other income sources, earned within the territory [...]
As with most countries, Costa Rica has some particular laws and requirements to be met for a foreigner to legally work earning a salary, wages, or a commission income. These laws and requirements are designed to protect the Costa Rica citizenry from having unqualified foreigners illegally taking employment [...]
Learn the important issues about moving to and living in Costa Rica. It's important to do your legal due diligence and to know the relevant questions to ask. If you are considering Costa Rica as your new home, consult with someone who has been living your dream [...]
