Determine your purpose for moving
Choose the right visa or residency path
Gather required documents
Obtain apostilles and certified translations if needed
Secure proof of income, pension, or investment if required
Apply for the visa or residency
Enter Costa Rica with the correct status
Register with immigration authorities after arrival
Complete fingerprinting and local registration
Enroll in the Costa Rican social security system if required
Open a local bank account
Find housing
Arrange health insurance
Set up utilities and internet
Obtain a local phone plan
Get a Costa Rican driver’s license if needed
Learn local laws and tax obligations
Budget for cost of living and moving expenses
Ship belongings or buy locally
Learn basic Spanish
Build a local support network