Tax is the least exciting part of moving abroad, and the most important to get right. I've spent months understanding the Costa Rica tax system as a foreign resident, and it's more complex than most expats expect. Here's what you actually need to know.
Taxes in Costa Rica for Expats: The Real Picture
Tax is the least exciting part of moving abroad, and the most important to get right. I've spent months understanding the Costa Rica tax system as a foreign resident, and it's more complex than most expats expect. Here's what you actually need to know.
Resident vs Non-Resident: The Key Distinction
Your tax obligation in Costa Rica depends on your residency status. If you spend more than 183 days per year in the country, you're generally considered a tax resident and taxed on your worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed only on Costa Rica-sourced income, often at a flat rate. The distinction matters — get it wrong and you could face double taxation or penalties.
Income Tax Rates
Costa Rica uses a progressive tax system. Rates typically range from 15-40% depending on income level. Some countries offer special tax regimes for new residents — reduced rates or tax holidays for the first 5-10 years. Check whether Costa Rica has a "new resident" or "highly qualified professional" regime that could save you significantly.
Double Taxation Agreements
Costa Rica has double taxation agreements with most major countries, meaning you won't pay tax twice on the same income. But the mechanism varies — some countries use the credit method (you pay in one country and get a credit in the other), others use the exemption method. You need to understand which method applies to your situation.
What You Must Declare
As a tax resident in Costa Rica, you typically must declare: local income, foreign income (including rental, dividends, interest), and foreign assets above a threshold. Failure to declare foreign income is the most common mistake expats make, and it can result in significant penalties. When in doubt, declare it.
Getting Professional Help
Get a tax advisor who specializes in expat taxation — not a local accountant who doesn't understand cross-border issues. The cost (£200-500 for a consultation, £500-1500 for an annual return) is worth it. Tax mistakes are expensive and the rules change frequently. A good advisor pays for themselves in saved penalties and optimized structures.
What flights LON to SJO actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Feb 2027 | €803 | SWISS | 2 stop | Check |
| 22 Dec 2026 | €852 | United | 1 stop | Check |
| 6 Jan 2027 | €856 | British Airways | Direct | Check |
| 1 Jun 2027 | €862 | W9 | 2 stop | Check |
| 23 Oct 2026 | €866 | American Airlines | 1 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 23 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in San Jose: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Airalo — eSIM data the moment you land, no SIM swap
- Saily — Travel eSIM with per-country plans
- Yesim — eSIM covering multiple countries on one plan
Frequently asked questions
Is Costa Rica expensive to visit?
No, Costa Rica is moderately priced. A budget traveler can manage on £35-50/day, while a mid-range traveler should budget £60-125/day. Prices are lower than Western Europe but higher than Southeast Asia.
What's the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with higher prices. Winter varies by region — some areas are cold and quiet, others are mild and pleasant.
Do I need a visa for Costa Rica?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Most Western passports get 30-90 days visa-free or visa-on-arrival. Check the official Costa Rica government website for current requirements before traveling.
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?
Costa Rica is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions: be aware of pickpockets in tourist areas, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods, and keep copies of important documents. Violent crime against tourists is rare.
What language is spoken in Costa Rica?
The official language is the local language. English is spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and larger cities, but less so in rural areas. Learning a few basic phrases will significantly improve your experience.