With its natural beauty, tropical climate and excellent quality of life, Costa Rica is a dream destination for expats looking to relocate overseas. Whether you’re venturing abroad following retirement, moving for work or relocating as a family, Costa Rica is a phenomenal country to call home. Not only does the country have exceptional weather, plenty of activity and idyllic landscapes, Costa Rica also boasts the same or a similar time zone to the majority of cities in the US and Canada making it easy to stay connected with friends, family and business.

There are three visas available to foreign nationals wishing to reside in Costa Rica depending on circumstances. The Pensionado Program is available to retired expats receiving a pension income. The Inversionista Program is available to foreign nationals owning a minimum of $200,000 worth of Costa Rica’s real estate, land or businesses. The most common expat visa is the Rentista Program with evidence of a steady income required or $60,000 deposited into a Costa Rican bank account. A new digital nomad visa has also been approved but is not yet available. This visa will allow foreign nationals to remain in the country for up to one year as long as income is made remotely or overseas.

Considered the happiest country on the planet, it is safe to say that Costa Rica is an incredible place to live. Not only does the country have spectacular landscapes and tropical temperatures, Costa Rica also boasts a stable democracy, exceptional healthcare and brilliant education. With a slower pace of life than you will be used to in the US, Costa Rica has a more tranquil vibe and a focus on living in the present.

Whilst Costa Rica is considered one of the most expensive countries in Central America, when compared to western countries, it is significantly more affordable. The cost of living in Costa Rica is highly affordable with US and Canadian expats noticing quite a difference when relocating to the country. Whilst prices in tourist destinations for rent and groceries is significantly higher, basing yourself out of town provides a very cheap lifestyle. If you want to remain by the coast, Jaco is the most affordable coastal town in Costa Rica. Not only are rent, utilities and groceries affordable, leisure activities including attractions, entertainment and restaurants are also incredibly reasonable.

Costa Rica has a very affordable housing market for both rental and purchase. Whilst city properties come at a premium, housing in Costa Rica is typically cheaper than you would find in the US or Canada. Costa Rica is a prime real estate destination where properties have great appreciation. Purchasing a home is an incredible investment to make in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica has the best healthcare in Latin America with excellent public and private healthcare systems. Expats in Costa Rica have access to both healthcare systems with medical costs significantly lower than you may be used to if relocating from the US.

The easy immigration process and friendly locals of Costa Rica make the relocation process a breeze. You can rest assured that you are moving to a country with a stable democracy and a brilliant healthcare system whilst rights for expats and property owners are also great. With exceptional affordability and quality of life, Costa Rica is a dream for everyone looking to relocate overseas.

The up-and-coming beach town, Jaco is the hottest area for real estate investment if you’re looking to relocate your family or invest in a vacation rental and create a profit while it’s not in use. Check out local listings.