After three years as a temporary resident, you can upgrade to permanent residency and stay in Costa Rica for good. This guide covers the request letter, the US$50 and US$200 government fees, the caja rule, and the 2026 DIMEX shift that routes your card through a BCR branch, with issuance still running a few months behind the 30-day target.
Costa Rica’s healthcare is high quality and far cheaper than the US, but figuring out the mandatory CAJA system versus private cover is the confusing part. This guide explains what CAJA includes, when you need extra insurance, and how to choose.
How to get the right visa for your situation and stay in the country either short or long term.
San Jose is Costa Rica’s most expensive city, but it’s still affordable by North American standards. A single expat needs roughly US$1,600 to US$2,200 a month to live comfortably.
Here’s how much you’ll you spend per month in one of Central America’s most popular expat destinations.
Find out if you have to file income taxes as an American expat living in Costa Rica.
Nine Costa Rican towns compared for retirees on cost, climate and healthcare, plus the pensionado income rule and the CAJA health cover that comes with residency.
Driving in Costa Rica is manageable with preparation, but road conditions, traffic habits, and the rainy season can catch newcomers off guard. This guide covers the rules, safety tips, and what to expect on Costa Rican roads.
Costa Rica offers stable democracy, affordable healthcare, and tropical scenery that draw thousands of expats every year. This guide covers visas, costs, housing, banking, and everything else you need to plan your move.
Costa Rica’s work permit takes three to eight months and is tied to a single employer. Here’s how employed permits, self-employment, and the Digital Nomad Visa actually work for foreigners.