Everything you need to know is included in our Costa Rica Property Pack
¡Bienvenidos a Costa Rica!
Costa Rica offers lush rainforests, wildlife, and a pura vida lifestyle.
If you're an American citizen who craves eco-friendly living and outdoor adventures, owning property in Costa Rica is a nature lover's dream come true.
However, making a property investment in Costa Rica as a US citizen involves navigating new laws and regulations, which can be quite challenging.
No worries, we will give some indications in this blog post made by our country expert.
Our goal is to simplify this information for you, ensuring it's easy to understand. Should you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
Also, for a more detailed analysis, you can download our property pack for Costa Rica, made by our country expert and reviewed by locals.
Can American people buy property in Costa Rica?
Do you need to be a local or a permanent resident to buy a property in Costa Rica?
You don't need to be a citizen of Costa Rica to buy and own property there.
Many Americans, as well as people from other countries, have successfully purchased properties in Costa Rica. Citizenship isn't a requirement, and neither is permanent residency. This means you can buy property even if you're just a visitor or a tourist in the country.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, while you don't need to be a permanent resident, certain types of properties, especially those near the coast or borders, are subject to special regulations. These areas, known as the Maritime Zone, have specific restrictions on foreign ownership.
Typically, foreigners can't own property within 50 meters of the high tide line, and between 50 to 200 meters, property is usually leased, not sold outright.
Regarding the purchase process, it's feasible to do much of it online from the United States. You can find properties, communicate with real estate agents, and even view properties virtually.
However, for the actual purchase and transfer of the property, you'll likely need to be present in Costa Rica at some point, or you can give a power of attorney to someone in Costa Rica to act on your behalf.
This is important for the due diligence process, which includes ensuring the property's legal status, and for the final signing of documents.
A tax ID, known as a DIMEX (Documento de Identidad Migratoria para Extranjeros), is usually required when you're doing significant transactions like buying property. This is because you'll need to pay property taxes and potentially other taxes related to the purchase. Getting a DIMEX isn't overly complicated, but it is a necessary step.
Regarding a local bank account, it's not an absolute requirement, but it can make the process smoother. Transferring large amounts of money internationally can be complex and expensive, so having a local account to handle transactions related to the property can be beneficial.
Plus, for ongoing expenses like utilities or property taxes, a local account is practical.
Lastly, other documents you'll need typically include a valid passport and proof of funds.
It's also wise to work with a reputable lawyer who specializes in real estate transactions in Costa Rica. They can guide you through the process, ensure all legal requirements are met, and help with obtaining any necessary documents.
Remember, each property purchase can be unique, so having professional guidance is key to a smooth transaction.
What are the rights and requirements to buy real estate in Costa Rica as a US citizen?
In Costa Rica, American buyers have essentially the same rights as local citizens when it comes to property ownership, and these rights are similar to those of other foreigners.
There are no discriminatory laws or practices that grant Americans more privileges over other non-Costa Rican buyers.
One key area where restrictions apply is the Maritime Zone, which includes land within 200 meters of the high tide line along coastlines. The first 50 meters from the high tide line is public land and cannot be owned by anyone. The next 150 meters is typically restricted for foreign ownership. In this zone, direct ownership by foreigners is limited.
If a property falls within this area and you're a foreigner who has not lived in Costa Rica for at least five years, you cannot own more than 49% of a property, a Costa Rican citizen must own the majority 51%. However, there are ways around this, like forming a Costa Rican corporation to own the property.
Away from the Maritime Zone, there are no such ownership restrictions.
Americans can buy and own property outright, including residential, commercial, and rural land. There are no limits on the number of properties you can own, so you can invest in multiple properties if you wish.
Regarding properties near international borders, there are some restrictions, but these apply equally to all non-residents, whether they are Americans or other foreigners.
Generally, the area within the first two kilometers of an international border is considered a restricted zone. Foreigners may face restrictions or special requirements in these areas.
There is no minimum investment required by law for foreigners to buy property in Costa Rica. You can purchase property at any price point that suits your budget.
The lack of a minimum investment requirement makes Costa Rica an attractive destination for a wide range of investors, from those looking for affordable properties to those interested in luxury estates.
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What about buying land in Costa Rica as an American?
Let’s focus a bit more on the land ownership system in Costa Rica.
As a U.S. citizen, you can buy land in Costa Rica, including various types of land for both residential and commercial purposes.
However, there are specific regulations concerning certain areas, especially along borders and coastal regions.
As mentioned before, in coastal areas, particularly within the Maritime Zone, which covers land within 200 meters of the high tide line, there are restrictions. The first 50 meters is public land and not available for ownership. The next 150 meters can be developed, but with limitations for foreign ownership.
As a foreigner, if you haven't lived in Costa Rica for at least five years, you're limited to owning a maximum of 49% of a property in this zone. However, this can be navigated by forming a Costa Rican corporation that can own the property in full.
Near international borders, generally within two kilometers, there are restrictions for foreign ownership. These areas are considered sensitive for national security, so buying land here as a foreigner involves additional regulations and is often more complicated.
Foreigners, including Americans, frequently purchase land in areas like the Central Valley, which includes the capital city of San José, as well as popular coastal areas like Guanacaste, Puntarenas, and the Nicoya Peninsula. These regions are attractive due to their beautiful landscapes, climate, and developed infrastructure.
Zoning and land use planning in Costa Rica can significantly impact what you can do with your land.
Each municipality has its zoning plan, which dictates the types of buildings and activities allowed in different areas. For example, some areas are zoned for residential use only, while others allow commercial development.
It’s important to understand the zoning regulations of a specific area before purchasing land, as they will determine what you can build and how you can use the property.
Common land ownership issues in Costa Rica include unclear property titles, boundary disputes, and issues arising from the country's environmental laws, which can be quite strict.
It's crucial to conduct thorough due diligence before purchasing land. This includes verifying the property's title, ensuring that the land has legal access to roads and utilities, and understanding any environmental restrictions that may apply.
Buying property and becoming resident in Costa Rica
Owning property in Costa Rica doesn't automatically grant you permanent residency as an American or any foreigner.
However, there is a residency program available for investors, including real estate investors, which can eventually lead to permanent residency and possibly citizenship.
To qualify for the investor residency, you need to invest a minimum of $200,000 in Costa Rica, which can include investment in real estate. This means you could purchase a home, land, or any other property type as part of this investment.
The process typically starts by finding and purchasing the property that meets the investment criteria.
Once you've made the investment, you'll need to apply for residency under the "Inversionista" (investor) category. This involves submitting various documents, including proof of the investment, a clean police record from your place of residency, and health insurance that covers you in Costa Rica.
All documents from outside Costa Rica need to be apostilled or authenticated by the Costa Rican consulate.
The investor residency is temporary for the first three years. During this time, you'll need to spend at least one day a year in Costa Rica to maintain your status.
After three years, you can apply to renew your investor status or apply for permanent residency if you meet certain conditions, such as continuous residency in the country or other ties like a Costa Rican spouse or children.
Permanent residency allows you greater freedoms in terms of work and property ownership and puts you on a path to citizenship.
After several years of permanent residency and meeting specific criteria, including proficiency in Spanish, knowledge of Costa Rican culture, and continuous residence in the country, you may apply for citizenship.
It's important to note that Costa Rican immigration laws and policies can change, so it's advisable to consult with a legal professional specializing in Costa Rican immigration for the most current and detailed advice. They can guide you through the investment process, help you understand all legal requirements, and ensure that you're taking the correct steps towards residency and possibly citizenship in the future.
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What is the process to buy property in Costa Rica as an American?
How to get started? What are the different steps?
If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the process (and the mistakes to avoid), you can check our full guide about property buying in Costa Rica.
When you decide to buy property in Costa Rica, the first thing to do is find the property you're interested in.
Once you've found a property, you'll negotiate the sale price with the seller. It's essential to agree on a price that works for both parties.
After settling on a price, the next step is to hire a real estate lawyer. This is a crucial part of the process because property laws in Costa Rica can be complex, and you'll need someone who knows the ins and outs.
Your lawyer will be responsible for conducting a title search to ensure the property's title is clear and free of liens or encumbrances. This step is vital to avoid future legal problems.
Following the title search, you'll move on to drafting and signing a sale agreement. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the sale, including the agreed-upon price.
At this stage, you'll likely pay a deposit to secure the property, usually around 10% of the purchase price. This shows your commitment to the purchase.
The next big step is the transfer of property, which is usually handled by your lawyer. This involves preparing and signing the transfer deed (escritura) in front of a Costa Rican notary. The notary plays a key role in the process as they are responsible for registering the property transfer in the National Registry (Registro Nacional).
Transferring funds internationally for the purchase can be a bit tricky. You'll need to ensure that your bank and the Costa Rican bank handle the transaction correctly, complying with both countries' regulations.
Be aware of potential foreign exchange fluctuations and fees involved in international money transfers.
As for closing costs and fees, these usually include legal fees, notary fees, and transfer taxes. Typically, these costs amount to about 3.5% to 4.5% of the purchase price. It's important to factor these additional costs into your budget when planning your purchase.
Regarding mortgages, yes, Americans can get a mortgage in Costa Rica, but it can be more challenging than in the U.S.
Costa Rican banks may require more documentation, and interest rates might be higher.
Some buyers opt to arrange financing through international banks or lenders that specialize in overseas property purchases. You'll need to provide proof of income, a good credit score, and usually a down payment of at least 30% of the purchase price.
Risks and potential pitfalls related to property investment in Costa Rica
When buying residential real estate in Costa Rica, it's crucial to be aware of specific risks, some of which are quite different from those you might encounter in the United States.
Understanding these risks can help you navigate the process more smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.
One significant risk is related to property titles. The clarity and security of property titles in Costa Rica may not always match the standards you're accustomed to in the U.S.
It's not uncommon to encounter properties with disputed titles or titles that aren't properly registered. This is why having a thorough title search conducted by a reputable lawyer is essential. This step is crucial to ensure you don't face legal issues regarding the property's ownership later on.
Zoning regulations in Costa Rica can be quite complex and differ significantly from area to area.
Unlike in the U.S., where zoning information is readily available and standardized, in Costa Rica, it can be challenging to access detailed zoning plans, especially in rural or less developed areas. It's important to understand the local zoning laws of the area where you're buying, as they dictate what you can build and how you can use your property.
Sometimes, what appears to be a perfect spot for a dream home could have restrictions that limit your ability to develop or use the land as you wish.
Another aspect to consider is Costa Rica's environmental laws, which are often stricter than those in the U.S. These laws can affect properties near beaches, forests, and other natural areas. For instance, if you're buying property near a coastline, you need to be aware of the Maritime Zone law and how it affects property rights.
Cultural and local customs also play a significant role in real estate transactions in Costa Rica. Understanding and respecting these customs is important, especially when dealing with local communities and authorities.
Sometimes, what is considered a standard practice in the U.S. might be viewed differently in Costa Rica, and being aware of these differences can help in building good relationships with neighbors and local officials.
Regarding dispute resolution, Costa Rica has a legal system where property disputes are typically handled in local courts. However, the legal process can be slower and more bureaucratic than what you might be used to in the U.S.
While international arbitration might be an option in some business or investment scenarios, most real estate disputes are resolved within the Costa Rican legal system. Therefore, having legal representation that is well-versed in Costa Rican law and property issues is crucial.
Tax implications for US citizens buying property in in Costa Rica
American citizens owning property in Costa Rica need to be aware of several tax implications, both in Costa Rica and how it may affect their U.S. tax situation.
In Costa Rica, property owners are subject to property taxes, which are relatively low compared to the United States.
The property tax rate is generally 0.25% of the registered property value, which is often lower than the market value. This tax is paid annually to the local municipality where the property is located. It's important to stay current with these payments to avoid penalties.
Capital gains tax is another consideration. In Costa Rica, capital gains tax was not traditionally levied on real estate transactions, but recent changes have introduced a capital gains tax of 15% on the profit of a property sale.
However, there are exemptions, such as when the property sold is your primary residence. For American property owners who are not residents of Costa Rica, this tax will generally apply.
Regarding tax treaties, there isn't a specific tax treaty between Costa Rica and the United States addressing double taxation on income or capital gains from real estate. This means as an American, you need to consider the potential for double taxation - paying taxes in both Costa Rica and the United States.
The U.S. allows for a Foreign Tax Credit, which can reduce your U.S. tax liability on income taxed in another country. It's advisable to consult with a tax professional who is knowledgeable in both U.S. and Costa Rican tax laws to navigate this area effectively.
Property ownership in Costa Rica also has implications for inheritance and estate planning for American citizens.
In Costa Rica, there are specific laws governing inheritance that might differ from U.S. laws. For instance, Costa Rican law includes forced heirship provisions, meaning a portion of your estate may be automatically allocated to direct family members, regardless of your will. This can affect how you plan your estate and what happens to your Costa Rican property after your death.
It's important to have an estate plan that considers the laws of both countries.
You might need to have separate wills, one in the U.S. and one in Costa Rica, each complying with the respective country's legal requirements. This can ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and can help avoid legal complications for your heirs.
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This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.