Legal Guidance
If you’re thinking about relocating to Costa Rica or investing in property here, you probably have a lot of legal questions. You’re not alone — and you’re right to be asking them.
The good news? Buying property and applying for residency in Costa Rica is absolutely possible — and many foreigners do it successfully every year. The key is understanding how the legal system works, what to expect, and who to trust.
We’re not attorneys, and we don’t pretend to be. But we are professionals who’ve been through the process ourselves — and who’ve helped many others do the same. In this article, we’ll give you a grounded overview of the most important legal considerations, and we’ll share how we can help connect you to vetted local experts.
Understanding Residency in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers several legal pathways to residency, including:
Pensionado (Retiree): For those with a lifetime pension of at least $1,000/month.
Rentista: For those who can prove a stable monthly income (e.g., $2,500/month for 2 years or a $60,000 deposit).
Investor (Inversionista): For those investing $150,000+ in approved projects, including real estate.
Marriage or family ties to a Costa Rican citizen.
Residency isn’t required to buy property, but it’s often a smart step if you plan to live here full-time. The process can take several months and involves gathering documents, translations, background checks, and dealing with government offices like Migración and DGME.
We work with experienced immigration attorneys who walk our clients through every step, from application to approval.
Buying Property in Costa Rica: What to Know
Yes, foreigners can legally own titled property in Costa Rica — 100% in their own name or through a corporation.
That said, the legal system here is different from what you might be used to. Here are a few key things to understand:
Property due diligence is essential. Your attorney will research the title, check zoning, review the survey map, and ensure the property is free of liens or restrictions.
You’ll need a local notary public. In Costa Rica, only notaries (who are also attorneys) can legally transfer property.
Some land near beaches is concession land. These properties involve special rules and may not be eligible for full ownership by foreigners.
Escrow accounts are used for secure transactions. An attorney typically oversees the funds, with a third-party escrow service involved.
Common Legal Misconceptions
We hear a lot of myths in our line of work. Let’s clear a few up:
“I need a Costa Rican partner to buy property.” Not true, foreigners can fully own titled property.
“I can just live on a tourist visa and border-hop.” While technically possible, it’s risky and unsustainable long term.
“Verbal agreements are fine.” In Costa Rica, always get everything in writing, with notarized contracts.
That’s why working with the right attorney from the beginning is so important.
What a Good Attorney Will Do For You
When buying or moving to Costa Rica, a trusted lawyer is your best asset. Here’s what a qualified real estate or immigration attorney typically handles:
Verifying property ownership and legal status
Creating or reviewing your purchase agreement
Coordinating escrow and closing
Preparing residency applications and submitting them properly
Explaining tax and ownership structures (personal vs. corporate)
Advising on inheritance, wills, and succession law
You’ll want someone bilingual, communicative, and experienced with expat clients.
How We Help
At Costa Rica Dream Real Estate, we don’t offer legal services directly and we believe that’s a good thing.
Instead, we work with a small, trusted network of independent legal professionals we’d hire ourselves (and in many cases, already have). Depending on your needs, we can refer you to:
Immigration attorneys
Real estate attorneys / notaries
Corporate law specialists
Escrow service providers
Due diligence experts
These are partners we know, trust, and collaborate with often. We’ll introduce you, and you’ll work with them directly, so you’re always in control.
Let’s Get You the Right Legal Help
Whether you’re just starting to explore Costa Rica or already planning your move, having the right legal guidance early on makes all the difference.
Contact us today, and we’ll connect you with attorneys and professionals who can guide you clearly and honestly — no pressure, no confusion, just trustworthy support.
Your next chapter starts with the right team beside you.