Blackwatch
Canadian looking for information about Costa Rica
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Registration: 23 November 2021
Thinking of retiring to Costa Rica by GuesTPoster1307233
Hi All,My name is Millie and my husband and I are thinking of moving to Costa Rica. We are planning to travel there soon to scout places to live. We are interested in renting for now. Any advice on where the safest urban locations to look ...
If you want safe, warm urban living I would suggest looking at Merida Mexico. I have been to Liberia, San Jose and La Fortuna and they all seemed dirty and unsafe. Read More
We are now looking at a long-term rental by Alikat23
I'm Kathryn, a (semiretired) technical editor and science writer. My husband is Mark, a retired toxicologist/ecologist. We've been to CR several times and sold our home in California and moved here with our two cats 3 weeks ago. We've been staying ...
A long term rental seems to be the best option until you live there for a few years and really know you can handle the changes. I plan on starting off with a month each winter then 3 months upon retirement. I know I can definitely handle Jan Feb and ... Read More
Looking into to retire is CR by oshudofsky
Hello everybody,I am a Dutch single mom and will be retired at the end of 2024 and one of the countries I am looking into to retire is CR. Despite the great weather, nature, animals, etc. also because I will have just a not to large pension and the ...
@Blackwatch depends on a part of CR you live. The countryside, far from the gringo overpopulated areas the life is much cheaper and food healthier. A car, yes, it is very expensive to use here. New CAJA rates? I've decided to ignore them and don't ... Read More
Looking into to retire is CR by oshudofsky
Hello everybody,I am a Dutch single mom and will be retired at the end of 2024 and one of the countries I am looking into to retire is CR. Despite the great weather, nature, animals, etc. also because I will have just a not to large pension and the ...
It depends how you want to live. $1700 wouldn't support myself. It can be done but I doubt you can afford to own a car on that amount or save any money for return trips home or unforeseen things. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kMFSdgvjwwThis is a ... Read More
Life in Tamarindo by johncrossley1
Hi my name is Adela Crossley, and I bought a home in Tamarindo, and will be moving from Canada to live in Costa Rica!How is life in Tamarindo?I will like to join an expat group
Tamarindo reminded me of Florida. Lots of Americans in their 60s and young drunks in their early 20s. Didn't want to swim at the beach due to copious amounts of horse crap on the beach and floating in the water. People asking you if you want to buy ... Read More
Criminal background disqualifies. by kosinakim65
What would disqualify an US citizen from obtaining a pensioners visa. If you have a link or knowledge of requirements I would be grateful for the helpthank you kim
You can't enter some countries if you have a DUI, let alone get a visa to live there. What might be considered a "misdemeanor" in the States is often called something else in a different country and the offense is treated as if you did it in that ... Read More
recommendations for towns/neighborhoods/places by MOLSON55
@Julien HOLA! I am planning to visit Oaxaca in April and then move shortly after. So excited! I am 68 yo, have a young German Shepherd, and would prefer to live somewhere with a yard and easy access to nature trails.(and relatively quiet) I ...
@aliceah Hi Alice, do you mind if I ask you a question about weather? You say it's hot there. I am considering Puerto Escondido as a retirement spot which is close to you. Is the weather and water as warm where you are as in Costa Rica? I am ... Read More
Moving dogs from USA to costa rica by laurenqmeeks
Hello all, hubby and I are trying to spend an extended period of time in Costa Rica and would like to bring our dogs along for the adventure. We have two large German shepherd mixes that are not service animals. the hitch of everything is that none ...
When I researched this I found airlines will not fly dogs in the cargo hold during warmer months at certain airports. There is a max temp limit. They also have a list of certain aircraft models they will not transport dogs because the planes do not ... Read More
Driving to Cancun with Pets by Cindye1010
We're considering applying for residency and moving to Cozumel and have two dogs (one small, one large). The rules for flying with pets seem somewhat difficult, so we're considering driving instead. The thought is to drive to Cancun, then ...
@Cindye1010 Did you make the drive? How was it?Last year all US airlines cracked down on emotional support animals. I do not know of any Mexican airlines that allow large breed dogs in the cabin unless they are a therapy dog and you have a letter ... Read More
Sending moto by air Montreal - Cancun by giardeleanu
Hello,I am sending my moto from Montreal to Cancun with Air Transat. The sender is asking to have a custom broker in Cancun.However, after conversation with the broker, I understood I don't need.To explain:I am sending my moto temporarily and ...
@giardeleanu I thought you have to import the vehicle if you are a temp or perm resident? Visitors can temp import I believe. Read More
DRIVING Texas to Playa Del Carmen by christo1985
Im planning on driving from AUSTIN Texas to Playa Del Carmen in the next few weeks.... Looking for any advice on doing the drive.. Good idea or Bad? Any feedback would be great thanks
Would be nice if they had a ferry going to the Yucatan. What drive would be safer? Puerto Vallarta to Texas or Tulum to Texas. Read More
Put in offer on Property in La Tigra by Stephano1
Hello Everyone. Brand new to Forum.. I have been reading posts all day and find them very informative. We took a vacation and included some house hunting while in CR Dec 2022. We fell in love with the country and property on the same trip. We are in ...
@Stephano1 Are you familiar with the CAJA and the different types of residency? This can be very expensive. I am not sure if your Airbnb rental income will increase your Caja payment each month but it would not surprise me.There is a 12.75% flat ... Read More
How Does Caja Work ? by dkor
Dear expats - I see there has been a lot of discussion about Caja, but I'm not quite finding the answers to my questions - so please forgive me if this has been answered before and I am just not finding it. My spouse and I are applying for ...
@TerrynViv Thanks again, very interesting all the ins and outs.I wonder if an RRSP would qualify as a "retirement fund" by the Costa Rican govt to satisfy the $1000/month Pensionado requirement? Read More
How Does Caja Work ? by dkor
Dear expats - I see there has been a lot of discussion about Caja, but I'm not quite finding the answers to my questions - so please forgive me if this has been answered before and I am just not finding it. My spouse and I are applying for ...
I have been through this very thoroughly over the last eight years and this is my understanding of what must be reported. Firstly only guaranteed income is what your Caja payments will be based on. In our original application I looked like ... Read More
How Does Caja Work ? by dkor
Dear expats - I see there has been a lot of discussion about Caja, but I'm not quite finding the answers to my questions - so please forgive me if this has been answered before and I am just not finding it. My spouse and I are applying for ...
@Henrych what sort of proof do they need? If I have 3 pensions and just report the lowest to keep the Caja down do they ask to see my Canadian income tax return? Read More
How Does Caja Work ? by dkor
Dear expats - I see there has been a lot of discussion about Caja, but I'm not quite finding the answers to my questions - so please forgive me if this has been answered before and I am just not finding it. My spouse and I are applying for ...
What if you have 3 pensions? Can you just report the lowest pension amount or do they want to see your tax return? Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@Captnflex thanks for the video. I do follow him but had not watched this video. Amazing how complicated little things can be in Mexico.I was active in another thread here where some were saying a Canadian citizen who is a resident of Mexico and ... Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR by Blackwatch
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ...
$100 isn't a lot but it's still almost 10% of your income. Perhaps most people have a small pension they use to qualify and then do not report other sources of income to the govt. Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR by Blackwatch
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ...
Apparently the govt rescinded this just for the pensionado group. You only pay into the healthcare portion and not the pension program. I can't find anything on google news searches. found out from this ... Read More
Your best culinary memory in Mexico by Mickael
Hello everyone, As you know, every country has its own flavours and tasting the local cuisine is a great way to discover the culture of a destination. Whether it's a small typical restaurant to taste local dishes, a traditional meal in a local's ...
Mi Amor in Tulum. Best fish tacos I've ever had. Brocoli dipped in tahini then fried were amazing and the cocktails were great. Second best "seafood" tacos were in Puerto Morelos at tacos dot com. He cooks it in front of you. Read More
Your best culinary memory in Costa Rica by Mickael
Hello everyone, As you know, every country has its own flavours and tasting the local cuisine is a great way to discover the culture of a destination. Whether it's a small typical restaurant to taste local dishes, a traditional meal in a local's ...
Amazing tacos at Taco Corner in Santa Teresa, I think the owner/cook in Mexican so not sure if it counts. Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mexicogc Thanks for the information.Interesting that you say the medical coverage is useless? What do you find are the weak spots where do you need your own coverage?I called Sunlife and they said medication, private clinics including drs in these ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
What does this have to do with taxes on Canadian pensions??? -@mrpresMexicog mentioned he was a retired fed worker so I asked him a question about medical coverage. I don't think there's anything wrong with that? Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@Blackwatch If they say that hospital stays are not covered, that is not a good thing. What about an operation (say heart surgery) in a hospital? That could get quite expensive."Interesting that you say the medical coverage is useless?" Who are ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mexicogc Thanks for the information.Interesting that you say the medical coverage is useless? What do you find are the weak spots where do you need your own coverage?I called Sunlife and they said medication, private clinics including drs in these ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
Also you can apply all of your medical expenses to your tax return which can amount to a significant amount of money they will refund you. -@MikeGBDo you have medical coverage that you pay for? I will be a retired fed employee and my coverage I pay ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@Mike Bluett 15% on RRSPs as well?If you rent your home out you only pay Mex income tax on the profit of the rental? Just want to make sure the Mexican income tax dept doesn't use that to capture your Canadian sourced income. Read More
Place to move in CR with my only income of social security by edram1961
Is there any affordable place to live with all amenities like rent food cable internet gas ligth health insurance for less than $1000 us dollars a month in CR?Please let me know thanks
@edwinemora Interesting. I didn't know he lost all his money in CR. I will have to look back further and watch this. As I have watched the weather patterns in CR on the internet it looks like Dec is the beginning of the nice weather and it goes away ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mexicogc thank you. I misunderstood you. I read a few of your older posts and seem to understand now. Canadian Non tax resident : Canadian based pensions and RRSPs you pay 15% tax at source. Mexico does not tax you on these two sources of income ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
my RRIF is taxed at 25% not the one approved by RCA even if I wrote to them (RCA will advise the following: employer pension, CPP, OAS, RRQ only not RRIF/RRSP)Hi Mexicog, I noticed you said in this post Revenue Canada taxes RRSPs at 25% but in a ... Read More
Place to move in CR with my only income of social security by edram1961
Is there any affordable place to live with all amenities like rent food cable internet gas ligth health insurance for less than $1000 us dollars a month in CR?Please let me know thanks
youtube.com/watch?v=2kMFSdgvjww&t=89sHere is a Youtuber that lives in Fortuna. He goes over how much he spends per month in this video and shows you what his rental house looks like. Interesting watch. I couldn't live in that house but at least ... Read More
Living in Costa Rica certainly has its advantages! by crbooks
The lower cost of living is one of them. And having a lower cost of living will help you do the things you enjoy like dining out frequently, traveling, and going out for drinks with friends. Without having to sacrifice your other expenses like your ...
CAJA - We are Inversionistas, supposedly the highest category ....... we pay $47 USD per monthRiteve - Last year paid $33.27. Under the new system this year (Dekra) it will be less than half of it.Marchamo - Last year with a 2009 Hyundai it was ... Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR by Blackwatch
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ...
@sporto505 It sounds like the CR govt has moved to charging an income tax to pensioners but calling it the Caja. I think buying a house in Mexico is a better option. If I become a PR of Mexico I only pay 15% income tax in Canada. Zero taxes or ... Read More
Living in Costa Rica certainly has its advantages! by crbooks
The lower cost of living is one of them. And having a lower cost of living will help you do the things you enjoy like dining out frequently, traveling, and going out for drinks with friends. Without having to sacrifice your other expenses like your ...
I think it is possible if you move from NY or California, sell high and buy low. If you don't want to live near the ocean and choose to live more like a local you can find a cheap house but it won't be a North American quality house.Three big things ... Read More
Vaccination and covid measures by brumyk2021
Looking for frank info on whats currently happening covid-wise in Mexico. We are Cdn retirees whofarm organically and do not want these gene therapy shots.
@1faithrose Where is your retreat? I have been going there about 15 years and it has gotten super busy. Tulum was great but now very busy. Anywhere between Tulum and Cancun is busy in my opinion but I live in rural Canada :) Read More
Vaccination and covid measures by brumyk2021
Looking for frank info on whats currently happening covid-wise in Mexico. We are Cdn retirees whofarm organically and do not want these gene therapy shots.
I was all over Quintana Roo in April and don't remember having to wear a mask anywhere. Funny how Mexico would let me in without a vaccine but my home country wouldn't let me get on an airplane without one. Read More
The driving force of your expatriation in Costa Rica by Diksha
Hello everybody, Moving abroad, to a destination such as Costa Rica, is often the result of careful consideration. It is a major life decision and one that should not be taken lightly as the implications are so diverse. We would like to know what ...
@edwinemora I have appreciated your honesty over the time I have been here researching CR as a retirement destination. I have been to Mexico 16 or 17 times and have never had anything stolen from me. Day 2 in Nosara my phone and $120 was stolen. Two ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mexicogc Yes, I have done several simulated tax returns based on different provinces of residence and countries. I heard back from a couple of tax accountants in Mexico and they both confirmed Canadian pensions are not taxed in Mexico. There is so ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mrpres It depends on each individual case. I'm not an expert by any means. If I sold a company I would look for a country like Bermuda or Cayman Islands that are tax havens, choose the lowest fee and move my money there. I believe once you become a ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mexicogc thank you. I misunderstood you. I read a few of your older posts and seem to understand now. Canadian Non tax resident : Canadian based pensions and RRSPs you pay 15% tax at source. Mexico does not tax you on these two sources of income ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
Ok, the RRSP are taxed within the tax treaty as pensions so maximum 15% withheld in Canada (spouse and I have annual withdrawal from our RRIF). Globally, no income in Mexico = no taxes in Mexico. For RCA, they don't track your travelling nor Mexico ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mexicogc Interresting conversation, RCA rule is on top of residential ties are: 1 You live outside Canada throughout the tax year2-You stay in Canada for less than 183 days in the tax year.When you establish permanent residence status in Mexico ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
There does not appear to be an edit option...Obviously I would establish PR status in Mexico and be deemed a non-resident of Canada by CRA before I started to travel outside of Mexico so much. I can't imagine CRA will try to track my movements in ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
Hi "Blackwatch", Yes, you can by a vehicle but you need your residency status. The question now is will the dealer be required by law to have your RFC number thus linked to SAT and also required to identify the origin of the payment money or require ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
Hi "Blackwatch", Yes, you can by a vehicle but you need your residency status. The question now is will the dealer be required by law to have your RFC number thus linked to SAT and also required to identify the origin of the payment money or require ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
1- no mexican bank account 2- no mexican income 3- no property - we rent an apartment 4- we withdraw pesos at ATM using our Canadian bank cards5- no mexican credit card, we use our Canadian credit card -@mexicogcCan you own a car ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mrpres yes, a departure tax on assets sold. There are tax strategies to mitigate this. Selling your house a couple of years before you move for instance. Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@Blackwatch Exactly+ where do you park your money in Cayman's - what company. If I stay in Canada 50%+ of my pensions go in taxes. Only problem is getting my wife to move and my health to be stable. it sucks getting old. - @mrpresI was ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
@mexicogc - If you don't mind sharing that contact as well with me I would appreciate it.I'm assuming you can own a car and have a Mexican cell phone plan since that will not result in an income in Mexico. Are there any loopholes with regards ... Read More
Panama vs. Costa Rica by Guinness13
Hey Folks, Wondering if anyone has some perspective on retiring in Panama vs. Costa Rica. I've done a bunch of reading so far and have yet to set foot in either country. Feet on the street will be part of the research, but interested in what ...
@kristc99 I am surprised that houses are sitting that long for sale in Panama. In CR it seems things are selling fast and at crazy prices. I have heard many stories of dogs being poisoned in CR and the next day or so the house is robbed. ... Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR by Blackwatch
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ...
Thanks for the info. I don't see this working out well for me. I will be about 57 when I retire with a pension around $72,000. It would be 8 years until my CPP and OAS kick in for me to use that as my minimum lifetime amount. Even if this goes back ... Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR by Blackwatch
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ...
Thanks Under the current system what does the govt use as an income amount for an investor buying a house to determine their Caja payment? Read More
Panama vs. Costa Rica by Guinness13
Hey Folks, Wondering if anyone has some perspective on retiring in Panama vs. Costa Rica. I've done a bunch of reading so far and have yet to set foot in either country. Feet on the street will be part of the research, but interested in what ...
@kristc99 Thanks, it might make sense to buy in Panama and take vacations in Costa Rica. Crossing the border with a vehicle seems a bit onerous but doable. The price of a used Hilux is very cheap in Panama vs CR. How is the theft in ... Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR by Blackwatch
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ...
@kohlerias My only pension starting off will be from work. I will be retiring at 56 or 57 and won't have CPP or OAS for 8-9 years. My initial pension is well beyond this amount and would attract the 19% "tax" that they are bringing in. The ... Read More
Panama vs. Costa Rica by Guinness13
Hey Folks, Wondering if anyone has some perspective on retiring in Panama vs. Costa Rica. I've done a bunch of reading so far and have yet to set foot in either country. Feet on the street will be part of the research, but interested in what ...
Thought I might revive an old thread. I have been researching both countries. I have been to CR but not Panama yet.The big thing I have learned recently about Costa Rica is the "Caja". This is a mandatory tax or contribution to the public healthcare ... Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
I found a Mexican income tax calculator. Using $82,000 Canadian and converting to 1.2 million pesos it says 27% tax overall. Subtract the 15% Canadian withholding tax so you would owe 12% to the Mex govt. If you were a resident of Ontario your ... Read More
ATV and UTV licensing, ownership and driving on roads by Blackwatch
Hi,I have been doing some research into bringing my ATV with me when I buy a house in CR. I understand you need a motorcycle license to legally operate an ATV on the roads in CR. Reading one review online you have to go to San Jose, get at least ...
Yes, ST is way over priced. We love eating out though so being 10-20 minutes away from good restaurants and a great beach is important to us. ST has some pretty good places to eat and the beaches along that stretch were amazing. If we don't find ... Read More
Income tax - Retired Canadian becoming CR resident by Blackwatch
I have been looking into the tax implications of moving to Costa Rica in retirement from Canada and giving up my Canadian residency for tax purposes. I'm looking for any info from other Canadians that have moved to CR and aren't considered a ...
I spent some time on the phone with a tax treaty expert from CRA. You can file a 217 return and possibly get back some of the 25% withholding tax. Just a quick calculation based on one person earning $85,000. Taxes paid living in NS would be ... Read More
ATV and UTV licensing, ownership and driving on roads by Blackwatch
Hi,I have been doing some research into bringing my ATV with me when I buy a house in CR. I understand you need a motorcycle license to legally operate an ATV on the roads in CR. Reading one review online you have to go to San Jose, get at least ...
We still need to do some exploring. Most likely north of Santa Teresa. Hermosa is my favourite beach. If we can build something north of ST or up in the hills above would be ideal. This winter we will spend more time down towards the Osa ... Read More
ATV and UTV licensing, ownership and driving on roads by Blackwatch
Hi,I have been doing some research into bringing my ATV with me when I buy a house in CR. I understand you need a motorcycle license to legally operate an ATV on the roads in CR. Reading one review online you have to go to San Jose, get at least ...
Thanks for the reply. It was odd but I found several references online stating you need a motorcycle license to drive an ATV. With the new laws allowing for 2 vehicles to be imported when you move to CR I will bring my 4Runner and ATV to save ... Read More
Income tax - Retired Canadian becoming CR resident by Blackwatch
I have been looking into the tax implications of moving to Costa Rica in retirement from Canada and giving up my Canadian residency for tax purposes. I'm looking for any info from other Canadians that have moved to CR and aren't considered a ...
Thanks for the reply. I didn't think you could dip below the 25% withholding tax and pay less if you lived in a non tax treaty country? Does CRA charge you on what you would just owe to the federal govt and not what you would pay for ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
The group seems to be split on this. If I am a Canadian citizen and I'm a non-resident of Canada according to CRA. I own a house in Mexico, receive a Canadian based pension and RRSP totaling $90,000 per year CDN and do not rent out my ... Read More
ATV and UTV licensing, ownership and driving on roads by Blackwatch
Hi,I have been doing some research into bringing my ATV with me when I buy a house in CR. I understand you need a motorcycle license to legally operate an ATV on the roads in CR. Reading one review online you have to go to San Jose, get at least ...
just in case anyone is interested I was able to confirm you can drive an atv and side by side in Costa Rica with a regular driver's license. Here is a link to the govt. ... Read More
Income tax - Retired Canadian becoming CR resident
I have been looking into the tax implications of moving to Costa Rica in retirement from Canada and giving up my Canadian residency for tax purposes. I'm looking for any info from other Canadians that have moved to CR and aren't considered a ... Read More
Where would you recommend living for safety and blue sky's? by husnbmw
HelloI'm from Las Vegas and thinking of moving to CR for 6 months. Then back to Vegas for 6months. Where would you recommend living for safety and blue sky's? I'm also wondering where would be a nice spot near the beach to open up a small ...
Have you been to Costa Rica yet? As for a place to open a sports bar and American football... I believe Costa Rica loves soccer. A small sports bar that pipes in NFL games or NBA will attract Americans who went to CR to live in a similar version of ... Read More
ATV and UTV licensing, ownership and driving on roads
Hi,I have been doing some research into bringing my ATV with me when I buy a house in CR. I understand you need a motorcycle license to legally operate an ATV on the roads in CR. Reading one review online you have to go to San Jose, get at least ... Read More
Best SUV car rental by carolz
hi we are planning to arrive in late march and April of 2012 5 adults traveling. After the ACRC seminar we want to renta car for 10 days - recommendations for a car rental place?
I ended up using Vamos car rental in Liberia. The company was about 30% cheaper than the big US companies and had no issues. Just buy the full insurance with any company. I had to take the only SUV they had which was a very small Mitsubishi. It made ... Read More
Mexican taxation for Canadian permanent residents in Mexico by gfdcanada
I am currently living in Canada (Canadian citizen). I would like to seek permanent residence in Mexico. I am retired so do not plan to work/earn revenues while being in Mexico, except using my pension from abroad. This pension is coming from ...
Thanks for the clarification. It sounded like Mexico does not tax foreign sourced income if you move there but this must mean temporary residents like snow birds who stay 5-6 months but still reside in Canada. It is cheaper to remain a resident of ... Read More
Mexican taxation for Canadian permanent residents in Mexico by gfdcanada
I am currently living in Canada (Canadian citizen). I would like to seek permanent residence in Mexico. I am retired so do not plan to work/earn revenues while being in Mexico, except using my pension from abroad. This pension is coming from ...
This is very confusing. Most articles and tax people say Mexico does not tax on income that is sourced from another country. But it sounds like each Mexican state charges income tax regardless but only 1-3%. So if a Canadian buys a home in Tulum, ... Read More
Mexican taxation for Canadian permanent residents in Mexico by gfdcanada
I am currently living in Canada (Canadian citizen). I would like to seek permanent residence in Mexico. I am retired so do not plan to work/earn revenues while being in Mexico, except using my pension from abroad. This pension is coming from ...
I believe any official link will be in Spanish from a Mexican govt site. I have researched this on and off for a few years now. Spoken with accountants and retirement planning specialists. They all say if your income is not from a Mexican source you ... Read More
Mexico income tax on Canadian pension payments by Captnflex
Hola, i am in the planning stage and looking at moving to the Lake Chapala or Colima/Manzanillo area. My questions are about having to file an income tax in Mexico on pension payments from a Canadian source if i establish my permanent residence in ...
If you own a house in Mexico, are a non-resident of Canada and pay the 15% income tax on your Cdn based pensions do you now have to file a tax return in Mexico because you own a house? Read More
Police Extortion by sorter55555
Short version: Motorcycle cop pulls us over. Wants 800 pesos for a "ticket." He wants me to put the pesos in a notebook he handed me so no one sees the cash. I thought Merida didn't have so much of this nonsense. Is this common? What ...
Cops don't get paid what they do in the English world, the majority of the world runs like this. Travel the world and see what other police, customs and military are like. You can refuse to pay. he will either walk away or you will go to the ... Read More
Best SUV car rental by carolz
hi we are planning to arrive in late march and April of 2012 5 adults traveling. After the ACRC seminar we want to renta car for 10 days - recommendations for a car rental place?
Paradise Rental - you can find them of Facebook. Honest owner and everything is straightforward, without any surprises. I used their Suzuki Jimny for two weeks last year driving across the country.They don't seem to be replying to messages. Wild ... Read More
Best SUV car rental by carolz
hi we are planning to arrive in late march and April of 2012 5 adults traveling. After the ACRC seminar we want to renta car for 10 days - recommendations for a car rental place?
Thanks, I did some research and found a company called Wild Rider that is locally owned and has great reviews. I've always wanted to drive a Suzuki Jimny. I would prefer to fly into Liberia but it looks like SJ is a lot cheaper. Read More
Best SUV car rental by carolz
hi we are planning to arrive in late march and April of 2012 5 adults traveling. After the ACRC seminar we want to renta car for 10 days - recommendations for a car rental place?
Thought I'd resurrect this thread instead of starting a new one. I haven't booked the flights yet but would prefer to fly into Liberia for a couple of weeks on the Nicoya Peninsula. Can anyone recommend a car rental company that won't ... Read More
How can expats help fight crime in Costa Rica? by MalibuTerri
Hi, my name is Terri and my husband I am live in White Rock British Columbia and have bought a 2nd home in Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula. We have traveled extensively and never any place twice except for Costa Rica because though small is ...
The one thing Costa Rica always had for many years was "Its Safe"....Right LOL, Those days are over. Costa Rica is way more dangerous than the skewed numbers have you believe, most crime isn't even reported. So pitching crime ... Read More
How can expats help fight crime in Costa Rica? by MalibuTerri
Hi, my name is Terri and my husband I am live in White Rock British Columbia and have bought a 2nd home in Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula. We have traveled extensively and never any place twice except for Costa Rica because though small is ...
Samramon: thank you. I have thought about just renting for 6 months a year then I don’t have to worry about break ins when I’m back in Canada or running an Airbnb from afar. I have also considered finding a property with a guest house ... Read More
How can expats help fight crime in Costa Rica? by MalibuTerri
Hi, my name is Terri and my husband I am live in White Rock British Columbia and have bought a 2nd home in Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula. We have traveled extensively and never any place twice except for Costa Rica because though small is ...
Are there any places better in warm climates for theft? Less theft I mean. Read More
How can expats help fight crime in Costa Rica? by MalibuTerri
Hi, my name is Terri and my husband I am live in White Rock British Columbia and have bought a 2nd home in Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula. We have traveled extensively and never any place twice except for Costa Rica because though small is ...
I meant if the thieves are stealing TVs and furniture it must get expensive running an Airbnb? Especially if they are breaking windows each time. Are these break ins primarily happening when snow birds are back home in the states or Canada? Or are ... Read More
How can expats help fight crime in Costa Rica? by MalibuTerri
Hi, my name is Terri and my husband I am live in White Rock British Columbia and have bought a 2nd home in Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula. We have traveled extensively and never any place twice except for Costa Rica because though small is ...
Are these thefts happening when people return to Canada or the US for the summer? For those who Airbnb their house when they go home are there theft problems? Read More
New members of the Costa Rica forum, introduce yourselves here - 2021 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Costa Rica forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
Greetings everyone, I just posted a new topic in the forum but thought it would be good to introduce myself. I live on the east coast of Canada. Coming to CR this February to see if it might be the right place to buy a winter home. Tulum was the ... Read More