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Outlier Legal Services

Rafael Valverde

@Outlier Legal Services

Active member

American expat in Costa Rica

Forum posts

74

Contacts

4

About me

American

Lives in San Jose

Speaks English - Spanish - French

Registration: 30 July 2013

Outlier Legal Services
Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Gilbertoo

Canadians that have moved to C.R. by Gilbertoo

Are there any Ontario residents that have moved to C.R.? I would like to get more information on the moving costs, was furniture worth moving, etc.

Outlier Legal Services

Gilberto, You are not too far off. As you noted, people need to pay income tax in Costa Rica. Self employed people have to file for taxes every year and indeed there is a sliding scale indicating the percentage people have to pay based on their ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago

Working remote for my firm in USA - does anyone else do this? taxes?

You will need to continue filing for your Federal Taxes every year especially since you will be receiving 1099s. As far as state taxes, you will new to continue filing in the place of your last residence until you obtain residency in Costa Rica. Read More

Outlier Legal Services
Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
gwirfs

costa rica requires health insurance by gwirfs

What if a person already has international medical coverage myself? I am federal retired employee of USA--so i have blue shield international medical coverage. So one is required to buy costa rica health insurance--but if already have own medical ...

Outlier Legal Services

The monthly cost depends on your income. You can review a table describing the costs for CAJA here http://outlierlegal.wordpress.com/category/health-care/ Read More

Outlier Legal Services
Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
gwirfs

costa rica requires health insurance by gwirfs

What if a person already has international medical coverage myself? I am federal retired employee of USA--so i have blue shield international medical coverage. So one is required to buy costa rica health insurance--but if already have own medical ...

Outlier Legal Services

Gwirfs: TerrynViv is correct (for the most part) Legally, the CAJA requires you to be legal resident in order to have be able to register with them. However, some CAJA branches around the country, allow foreign nationals to register without ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
england341

Would like to become an expat living in Costa Rica by england341

Is there any expats living in Arenal that are on this site and could guide me as to where to rent accommodation for a couple of weeks while I check on permanent living in the Arenal area. I was in Arenal in September and absolutely loved the place, ...

Outlier Legal Services

Look up the "Lake Arenal Community" on Facebook. It is a community of expats and they will be able to help you with any specific questions you may have. Good luck! Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Joe Hardy

moving to Costa Rica by Joe Hardy

Hi all, my name's Joe and I have been a teacher of English for over twenty years now. I'm 58, born in Italy but, since my grandma was british, from Christchurch, Dorset, UK, I grew up learning two languages. I am currently working in the south of ...

Outlier Legal Services

Atlantic or Pacific does matter. The only place on the Caribbean side that would cater to what you are looking for is the Puerto Veijo area as well as Cahuita. It is beautiful, but everything else there should only be left to the more experienced ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Rosangeli

To work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice?? by Rosangeli

Thank you, I am interested moving to Costa Rica this summer. I have monthly income and would like to work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice ??

Outlier Legal Services

Lapalman48, I do not know what your problem is, but as Hasnaa says, if you are not going to provide any valuable input, it is better to keep it shut. I do know expats who have opened hair salons in Costa Rica and are doing well. For instance, my ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Rosangeli

To work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice?? by Rosangeli

Thank you, I am interested moving to Costa Rica this summer. I have monthly income and would like to work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice ??

Outlier Legal Services

With all due respect, these other guys do not know what they are talking about. I am an immigration attorney and I am telling you that you can open a business work in it and obtain immigration status without having to invest 200k. There are options ... Read More

Outlier Legal Services
Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Rosangeli

To work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice?? by Rosangeli

Thank you, I am interested moving to Costa Rica this summer. I have monthly income and would like to work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice ??

Outlier Legal Services

Rosangeli, Contrary to most of the comments posted in this thread, there is a special category for people who have a business. So, you can open a business, obtain all the required licenses and apply for the special category. There are a ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
maezing

Need to fill a container for move to Costa Rica by maezing

Trying to get a full container for shipment. I am posting this, hoping someone will see it who knows someone, if not themselves, who will be relocating to Costa Rica this year. I am looking for a person or persons interested in sharing a container ...

Outlier Legal Services

You should post in the facebook pages for expats. You will be more likely to find someone there. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
fakeplasticvero

Thoughts on buying a house in Costa Rica by fakeplasticvero

Hi there. I have about a million questions but I'll try to be brief. My husband and I, along with another couple are interested in buying a home in Costa Rica as a vacation home and possibly to rent out when we're not there. I realize that searching ...

Outlier Legal Services

You do not need to do the corporation. You can just sale 50% of your property. This type of ownership is called Tenancy in Common. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
fakeplasticvero

Thoughts on buying a house in Costa Rica by fakeplasticvero

Hi there. I have about a million questions but I'll try to be brief. My husband and I, along with another couple are interested in buying a home in Costa Rica as a vacation home and possibly to rent out when we're not there. I realize that searching ...

Outlier Legal Services

Ram Ramon, Regarding your questions: IDA This is a farming institute in charge of giving farmland to poor souls, so that they can make a living. In a lot of rural areas, people were given land for free by the government. In turn, people were ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
PuraVida2

Temporary residency and self employment by PuraVida2

Hi there, Does anyone have there temporary residency under the self employed skilled worker category? I have hit a road block in this process. I was told I need 2 permits to be self employed. I can get the municipal permit with my passport, but not ...

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kholerias, All Temporary Residencies can be turned into Permanent Residence after three years. There are two options for people who are self employed: A) The Temporary Residence as the Specialized Self Employed, B) the Special Category for Self ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
PuraVida2

Temporary residency and self employment by PuraVida2

Hi there, Does anyone have there temporary residency under the self employed skilled worker category? I have hit a road block in this process. I was told I need 2 permits to be self employed. I can get the municipal permit with my passport, but not ...

Outlier Legal Services

PuraVida2, I am curious about your initial question, because you said that you were told? Told by whom? Are you trying to put the application together by yourself? If that is the case, I suggest looking into the application requirements. If you are ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
PuraVida2

Temporary residency and self employment by PuraVida2

Hi there, Does anyone have there temporary residency under the self employed skilled worker category? I have hit a road block in this process. I was told I need 2 permits to be self employed. I can get the municipal permit with my passport, but not ...

Outlier Legal Services

If you are applying under the Residency for Self Employed option, it is not required to have the two permits you are talking about. If you are applying under the Special Category for Self Employed with a registered business, it is required to have ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Luckylimey

move still under consideration by Luckylimey

Wife and I are coming to the end of a 3 month trip. The weather has been perfect and we have met a bunch of nice people, locals and expats alike. Tamarindo is a typical seaside town, good and bad. This is not an inexpensive destination. We feel ...

Outlier Legal Services

Luckylimey, I agree with you. The cost of living here is pretty high for the poor infrastructure that you find around. It is sad, but it is what it is. When you move to another country, it is a quid pro quo. Here, you need to get adjusted to the ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago

Introduction

Ormaloo, As it has been suggested, the best thing to do is to take a look. Generally, people take a few trips prior to deciding what whether to live here and where to live. This would be my suggested list of things to do: 1. Explore the ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
fakeplasticvero

Thoughts on buying a house in Costa Rica by fakeplasticvero

Hi there. I have about a million questions but I'll try to be brief. My husband and I, along with another couple are interested in buying a home in Costa Rica as a vacation home and possibly to rent out when we're not there. I realize that searching ...

Outlier Legal Services

Fakeplasticvero, About buying property in Costa Rica: First, keep in mind that property law in Costa Rica is very similar to the laws in the US. Whatever you would do in the US for buying property, do so here. I noticed that when expats arrive to ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

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Sam Ramon Regarding Drivers Licenses The law says that anyone can apply for a DL, regardless of whether they are legal or not. Valid immigration status is not a requirement for obtaining a new license. It cannot be any more simple. Validation of a ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

LaMariposa, You have two options for the certified copy of the passport: 1. To pay a notary public in your town to certify a copy of your passport. It should cost $30 USD 2. To bring the regular copies with your passport to the immigration ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

LaMariposa, Our condolences for the passing of your father. You can request an extension of your 30 day for additional 60 days. This way you can get the maximum 90 days that you are allowed by law. You can request the extension along with the ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

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TerrynViv, For you to understand the right to obtain a DL you will need to understand the difference between validating a foreign DL and applying for a DL for the first time. In your case, I do not understand why you have a problem since your ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

TerrynViv, You need to read more carefully, my comment says: "Under the law, people have the right to obtain a DL regardless of the the status, but they are giving people a hard time about this. Please note that this is not related to validating a ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

Sam Ramon, There are a number of issues that we are trying to tackle. One of them is regarding "snow bears" (I never got it right whether it was snow birds or snow bears). There are lots of people who come to CR for only the winter, exceeding the ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

rendrag, Unfortunately, you do not know what you are talking about. I can only agree with one thing, it is not illegal to be a tourist. However, if a person decides to stay permanently in Costa Rica, it cannot be considered a tourist anymore. That ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
trishyd

expats get togethers by trishyd

I know in Panama there are several get togethers for expats. Is there anything like that in Costa Rica? I'm interested in living in an area where it is not too hot or humid. I plan on visiting soon.

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Let me know when and I will be glad to go. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

rendrag, I appreciate your skepticism. I am glad to let you know that I am not a so called lawyer, I am in fact a lawyer. I went to Law School both in the US and in CR. Please note that a tourist visa is not meant for long stays such as living in a ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

Samramon, I agree with you, Kohlerias is just speculating and not basing his comments in any facts. Let me give you some facts: First of all, it is difficult to estimate the number of perpetual tourist in Costa Rica because they are living here ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
haye8490

Musician question by haye8490

I am a musician and have played professionally most of my life; would I be legally permitted to play and earn money as a newcomer to CR please? thanks

Outlier Legal Services

There are a few options available for musicians. You can obtain a work visa as a self employed person or you can obtain a work visa as an artist. My suggestion is to try to obtain some sort of immigration status, otherwise it will be difficult to ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

"Border Hopping" by jordan6223

Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...

Outlier Legal Services

Wow! Where to start? First of all, the topic here is about "border hopping" which refers to crossing a border into another country. Crossing a border or entering into another country is an action or activity with legal consequences. Therefore, ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
louiseparks

Visiting CR in Dec - Would love to meet expats who already live there by louiseparks

I'm new here and I love all the information I've found so far. Everyone seems so nice. I'm traveling there for vacation the 1st of Dec. 2013. I want to retire there in March 2015. I lived in Singapore 38 years ago so I'm good with different ...

Outlier Legal Services

louiseparks A cuacoffee suggests, if possible rent a car drive around. It will not take long before you stumble upon an expat enclave. There plenty of those around. Just to give you an idea: Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, Nosara, Samara, Santa ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jordan6223

Are there any EUROPEAN expat communities in CR? by jordan6223

Hello....new here. Been looking into moving to Costa Rica for about 2,5 years now...studying all the ins and outs and trying to make a decision on where to live and doing homework as to our pension and if it will be able to take us there. We were ...

Outlier Legal Services

jordan6223 Look in Facebook. There are tons of groups in Facebook for the expats living in Costa Rica. Regards, Rafael Valverde Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Julien

Opening a bank account in Costa Rica by Julien

Hi all, is it difficult for expats to open a bank account in Costa Rica ? Which documents are required to open a bank account in Costa Rica ? How long does it take to open it ? Is there any restriction for expats regarding the services ...

Outlier Legal Services

(Moderated: Free advert is not allowed. Please register in the Costa Rica business directory section) Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jerry reidelbach

Caja plan by jerry reidelbach

Hi, my name is Jerry and Iam super impresed on how you guys stick to a budget. We will be retiring there and I hope we are able to manage as well as you do. I have a question about Health Insurance, we are both in our mid 60s and will be applying ...

Outlier Legal Services

B&J abroad I can provide some input regarding the costs. You must keep in mind that there are three types of costs related to an application for Temporary Residence under the Pensionado Category. Namely, the attorney's fees, the government fees, ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
oszelmarc

Looking for 1 bedroom apartment near Escazu (Budget max 600 USD/mo) by oszelmarc

I'll be relocating to Costa Rica this August and I haven't found any apartment yet online.... I plan to stay at a hotel for 2 to three weeks while looking for an apartment but it would be better if I would have a place to go to directly from the ...

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oszelmarc I am glad that it worked out. I hope you are having a good time. Regards, Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
trishyd

expats get togethers by trishyd

I know in Panama there are several get togethers for expats. Is there anything like that in Costa Rica? I'm interested in living in an area where it is not too hot or humid. I plan on visiting soon.

Outlier Legal Services

Try internations. They do get togethers every month. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
allabok2

Visit Costa Rica by allabok2

Presently residing in Oregon, USA. I plan to visit Costa Rica to lean more about the country, culture and people.

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allabok2 If you have not been to Costa Rica yet, I suggest reading "Living Abroad in Costa Rica" by Erin Van Rheenen. I think it pays a decent picture of what you can expect. Of course, as everybody else noted, the best thing you can do is come and ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
rachmels

Looking for the best place to buy a rental/vacation home in Costa Rica by rachmels

Hello members, Costa Rica is so beautiful,we just can not decide on the best place and value as for where to buy a retirement home that also can be rented out for a part of the year as we still would like to travel. Anyone out there that has ...

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try looking at nochedelmono[.]com Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago

Information about the study fees in Costa Rica

abil10 Please be more specific about the fees that you are inquiring about. Are they college fees? Immigration fees? Looking forward to your response. Regards, Rafael Valverde Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
teachdejaD

Sites for cheap apartments in Costa Rica by teachdejaD

Hello all, Does anyone know any newspaper of sites for renting apartments for cheap in Costa Rica specifically in the area of Limon. Thanks

Outlier Legal Services

I have been getting comments from many clients and friends around the country (apart from Limon) about crimes not being reported in the news. Again, I am curious about the accuracy of crime statistics. If know about homicides and violent crimes in ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
Sjeffery13

Seeking employment opps in Costa Rica by Sjeffery13

Greetings All - I'm a newbie here. The hubby and I are seeking a relocation to Costa Rica sometime in the near future; however, we are wondering how difficult it is to find work down there. We will eventually wish to become residents, buy ...

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With all due respect I disagree with bard. The unemployment rate is not that high with foreigners. I would like to know what statistics bard used to support such a claim. I agree that Costa Rican companies do not hire that many expats. Although, ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago

in need of information about working in Costa Rica

smubadi Have you had any luck looking for a job? Depending on your experience, you may be able to find a job with a tech company. Let me know your background and I will be glad to share some suggestions. Rafael Valverde Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
louise71594

Hi I am a newbie, Exploring Costa Rica by louise71594

Hello, My name is Louise Williams, and I am here to get as much information, feedback and suggestions as humanly possible about living and traveling abroad. My husband and I have talked for many years, about spending time in a new country, ...

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louise I hope you are doing well. How is your research on Costa Rica going? Let us know your comments or questions regarding your research. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
oszelmarc

Looking for 1 bedroom apartment near Escazu (Budget max 600 USD/mo) by oszelmarc

I'll be relocating to Costa Rica this August and I haven't found any apartment yet online.... I plan to stay at a hotel for 2 to three weeks while looking for an apartment but it would be better if I would have a place to go to directly from the ...

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oszelmarc Where you able to find your apartment? How did it go? Let us know. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
snoutoz

Crime in Costa Rica by snoutoz

Dear All, I have got a job from a recruitment company to relocate to costa Rica, I am Egyptian in nationality with my family , wife and two babies. I am soo afraid to move there because i hear about criminals and that costa rica has a high crime ...

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Soy, I would not know whether crime is getting worse. It depends on who you ask. I think that generally, people would say that it is getting worse. It is not possible to rely on crime statistics for two reasons. First, the government wants to say ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
snoutoz

Crime in Costa Rica by snoutoz

Dear All, I have got a job from a recruitment company to relocate to costa Rica, I am Egyptian in nationality with my family , wife and two babies. I am soo afraid to move there because i hear about criminals and that costa rica has a high crime ...

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snoutoz Unfortunately, crime in Costa Rica is high. Just like anywhere else, the place where you live and your whereabouts are decisive factors on whether you will be a victim of crime and the type of crime that you will be exposed to. There is ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jerry reidelbach

motor scooters by jerry reidelbach

Hi,I will be moving to CR soon and would like to know what the requirements where on riding motor scooters in CR?

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bard, I apologize if my comment about motorcyclist in Costa Rica offended you. It was not my intention to cause you any trouble. I agree that not all motorcycle drivers are idiots, but the majority are. The fact that this is a poor country and ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
teachdejaD

Sites for cheap apartments in Costa Rica by teachdejaD

Hello all, Does anyone know any newspaper of sites for renting apartments for cheap in Costa Rica specifically in the area of Limon. Thanks

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Soy, Limon is both a city and a province. The province has beautiful landscape but the city is awful. However, I would not recommend living in Limon overall, it is not safe. I would stay away from the following towns, Limon proper, Guapiles, ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
teachdejaD

******Planning on moving to costa rica few questions ******HELP :))) by teachdejaD

Hello everyone I am planning on moving to Costa Rica by next year. I have been searching and doing my own information but there are a few questions that I still have. I was hoping anyone can help me answer them if not all some. It would be greatly ...

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teachdejaD Regarding your background on psychology and education, I suggest reaching some of the international schools. Look in google for Lincoln School, Country Day School, SEK, European School, Blue Valley, Humboldt, and Franco Costa Rica. ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jerry reidelbach

motor scooters by jerry reidelbach

Hi,I will be moving to CR soon and would like to know what the requirements where on riding motor scooters in CR?

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jerry reidelbach According to the DOT (MOPT) website, you will need to do a written and a driving test, you will also need to take a physical exam and pay 4000 colones. You will be required to produce a passport or DIMEX. I do not think it is hard. ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
teachdejaD

******Planning on moving to costa rica few questions ******HELP :))) by teachdejaD

Hello everyone I am planning on moving to Costa Rica by next year. I have been searching and doing my own information but there are a few questions that I still have. I was hoping anyone can help me answer them if not all some. It would be greatly ...

Outlier Legal Services

teachdejaD Regarding your questions: 1. There are lots of jobs available. But there are two important questions regarding your ability to get a job. a) what are your skills and experience? b) what type of legal status you will have in Costa Rica? ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
teachdejaD

Sites for cheap apartments in Costa Rica by teachdejaD

Hello all, Does anyone know any newspaper of sites for renting apartments for cheap in Costa Rica specifically in the area of Limon. Thanks

Outlier Legal Services

teachdejaD You can look at encuentra24[dot]com. However, I do not suggest living in Limon under any circumstance. If you are referring to Puerto Viejo, Cocles or Cahuita, then, it will not be hard to find some low cost places to live. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
terig

Is it realistic to think we can travel by bus? by terig

We are visiting for two weeks in January 2014. Our plan is to travel by bus from Alajuela to Grecia to Manuel Antonio to Dominical and ending up in San Jose. We'll be spending 3 days in each place. I've researched thebusschedule.com and it appears ...

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terig I rather rent a car. But to answer your question it is doable, not as comfortable or safe. Based on your destinations, you will be able to get from Alajuela to Grecia. But from Grecia de Manuel Antonio, you will need to go back to San José. ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
jfink46

French Community in Costa Rica by jfink46

While vacationing in Costa Rica a few years ago, I met a lady that owned a large resort near Manuel Antonio. She mentioned that one of her favorite places to go in CR was a small, quaint, French community near the beach. Does anyone know what this ...

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I think it was close to Dominical. Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
rachmels

looking to buy property in Costa Rica by rachmels

Greetings, Looking to buy in Costa Rica.Along the beach.Any advise as per location would be greatly appreciated. For now we will be hoping to use for a couple of week a year and rent to cover the costs of the property.However retirement is fast ...

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SAMRAMON, Thank you for your comments . Indeed, I meant to say "Under NO circumstance get the attorney who is a friend of the seller, the developer or real estate agent". Regarding the Title Insurance, it is good to get coverage for title issues. ... Read More

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Outlier Legal Services replied to a thread
12 years ago
capthookcc

Thinking of the move to Costa Rica by capthookcc

I'm John. My wife Diane & I hail from Corpus Christi, Tx. We're exploring our options for retirement and the idea of moving to a place that would be more hospitable to our retirement needs is very appealing. Diane's familiy is from Puerto Rico and I ...

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capthookcc To answer your questions Yes, it is possible to do homes out of containers. Other people have done it. Limon can indeed handle the unload of the containers. It is a big port. There is a reason why the pacific is called the pacific ... Read More

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12 years ago
Lollard

Do all expats fit in one of three categories? by Lollard

It seems to me that pretty much everyone fits in one of three groups, and I'm not in one of those groups. So it's hard to imagine being able to relocate. Anyway, the three groups of people are: 1) retired, 2) wealthy with outside business ...

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Lollard, Living with a $1000 USD a month in Costa Rica is difficult specially if you have family. You can do it, but you will need to give up a lot. You will need to rely on public healthcare, public education for your kids, cheap unhealthy food, ... Read More

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12 years ago
rachmels

looking to buy property in Costa Rica by rachmels

Greetings, Looking to buy in Costa Rica.Along the beach.Any advise as per location would be greatly appreciated. For now we will be hoping to use for a couple of week a year and rent to cover the costs of the property.However retirement is fast ...

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I am an attorney. I do not intent to solicit your business, but I can give you a good piece of advice. Get a good attorney. If you already have some friends in Costa Rica, maybe they can refer you to an attorney they trust. Otherwise, I suggest ... Read More

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12 years ago
jerry reid

Independent living facilities by jerry reid

Hi, does anyone know of any Retirement communities that are all inclusive and are reasonably priced. Maybe in the range of 40,000yrly for a couple in their late 60's.

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Jerry, I do not know of places like that in Costa Rica. Probably, there may be one, but I just do not know. I will ask around and see if there is any. I will let you know. Regards, Read More

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12 years ago
serge956

find shool for my kids by serge956

I would like to know if it is a good life for family will i find good school not to expensive? should i be ok with 3000$ a month to leave there. Thank for your help.

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Define good school. Look in google for the Lincoln School, Country Day School, St Francis, SEK, San Judas Tadeo, La Salle, Blue Valley. The first two, may be out of your price range, but they offer international baccalaureate which you should ... Read More

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12 years ago
Sjeffery13

Seeking employment opps in Costa Rica by Sjeffery13

Greetings All - I'm a newbie here. The hubby and I are seeking a relocation to Costa Rica sometime in the near future; however, we are wondering how difficult it is to find work down there. We will eventually wish to become residents, buy ...

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Sjeffery13 There are two general answers to your questions. One is what people do and what people should do. These are two very different things. What people do. There are tens of thousands of illegal immigrants working in Costa Rica (or in any ... Read More

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12 years ago
louise71594

Hi I am a newbie, Exploring Costa Rica by louise71594

Hello, My name is Louise Williams, and I am here to get as much information, feedback and suggestions as humanly possible about living and traveling abroad. My husband and I have talked for many years, about spending time in a new country, ...

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Louise, Thank you for sharing that information, it is a good place to start. First all you mention, that your husband has a health condition. In that case, the best thing you can do is to remain close to the central valley. The main hospitals are in ... Read More

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12 years ago
Julien

Opening a bank account in Costa Rica by Julien

Hi all, is it difficult for expats to open a bank account in Costa Rica ? Which documents are required to open a bank account in Costa Rica ? How long does it take to open it ? Is there any restriction for expats regarding the services ...

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I do not suggest using a corporation unless you are planning on actually open a business. The purpose of corporations is to do businesses, not to allow illegal immigrants to open bank accounts. If you want to open a bank account through a ... Read More

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12 years ago
louise71594

Hi I am a newbie, Exploring Costa Rica by louise71594

Hello, My name is Louise Williams, and I am here to get as much information, feedback and suggestions as humanly possible about living and traveling abroad. My husband and I have talked for many years, about spending time in a new country, ...

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Louise, Congratulations on making the decision to live in another country. I have to tell you that it takes a different breed of people to do that, especially if you are considering relocating to a third world country, where challenges are far ... Read More

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12 years ago
louise71594

Exploring the Costa Rican Culture by louise71594

Other than the gated communities (which we have no desire to be in, overpriced and not our style), what areas would you consider to be in a good location if someone like myself (and the hubby) wanted to spend time exploring CR, the culture, food, ...

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Explore the culture? Well, that will become a bit difficult. Generally, people would suggest to consider some of the following places: Arenal, Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, Mal País, Puerto Viejo, Monteverde. The issue with these places is that, ... Read More

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12 years ago
jerry reid

Independent living facilities by jerry reid

Hi, does anyone know of any Retirement communities that are all inclusive and are reasonably priced. Maybe in the range of 40,000yrly for a couple in their late 60's.

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Jerry, What do you mean by all inclusive retirement communities? I know about a couple of developments around the Osa Peninsula with a significant number of retirees (people in their late 50s and up). I have worked with some of them, but doing ... Read More

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12 years ago