Living in Costa Rica
Personal relocation guidance · I did it myself · Available in EN / FR / PL

Want to move to Costa Rica? I did it. I'll guide you through it.

I moved from Europe to Costa Rica permanently — bought a car, opened a bank account, bought a farm with a coffee plantation, and built a life here from scratch. I know every step of the process. And I can walk you through it.

Costa Planner's story

I came on holiday. I never went back.

Kevin — expat living in Costa Rica

In 2020 I took my first trip to Costa Rica. From day one, I fell in love with this country. I came back the following year. And after that second trip, I knew — Costa Rica was going to be my home.

Before settling, I lived in more than ten different regions of Costa Rica — at least a full month in each — learning the climate, the culture, and the day-to-day feel of each area. I moved to the Puriscal region — a remote, Costa Rican area between San José and the Pacific — and went through the entire relocation process with the help of a local lawyer and trusted local contacts: I opened a bank account, bought a car, and eventually purchased a large farm — a finca — with fruit trees, a coffee plantation, and a guesthouse.

I now grow and roast my own coffee. I have cows, chickens, dogs — and I practice permaculture. I have adopted the lifestyle my neighbours have lived for generations, with a more modern edge backed by my engineering background. I play football with them on Sundays. It is the life I wanted.

I also work as a consultant for chambers of commerce — building trade links between Costa Rica and European markets. I attend industry fairs here, I follow the economy and the foreign investment landscape closely. Costa Rica was not just a feeling. It was a deliberate choice: no army since 1948, nearly 100% renewable energy, decades of stable democracy in a region where that is rare. I researched all of it before I moved.

I am one of the only travel planners actually based in Costa Rica full-time, planning exclusively for Costa Rica — not juggling a portfolio of countries — and working exclusively with local Tico partners. No multinational commissions, no outsourced advice. Everything I know, I know from living it. And I am happy to share all of it with anyone thinking seriously about making this country their home.

What I can help you with

Every step I help you with is a step I have done myself — with a local lawyer and real contacts on the ground.

Finding and buying property

I know locals who are selling land and property at a fair price — deals you won't find on any listing site. I can prospect on your behalf, visit sites in person, film video walkthroughs, and negotiate directly with the seller. When you're ready to move forward, I connect you with my trusted notary-lawyer for the legal side.

Opening a bank account

Costa Rican banks have specific requirements for foreigners. I know what documents you need, which banks are most accessible, and I can accompany you in person to make sure it goes smoothly.

Buying a car

I bought my own car here. I know the process, the paperwork, and the common traps. I can help you find a reliable vehicle at a fair price through local contacts — not a dealership selling to expats.

Residency and legal process

I work with a trusted local lawyer who handles residency applications, property titles, and notarial work. I can refer you and help you navigate the administrative steps.

Finding the right region

Before buying my farm in Puriscal, I lived in more than ten different regions of Costa Rica — at least a full month in each. I know the climate, the culture, and the day-to-day feel of each area. I help you choose where to look based on what you actually want from life here.

On-the-ground support

I'm here. I can meet you at the bank, visit properties with you, introduce you to local contacts, and be the person you call when something is unclear. You're not doing this alone.

Two ways to work together

Whether you want a single expert call or someone by your side through the entire process.

Expat Consultation
60-minute video call + written summary

You have questions, plans, or doubts. I answer all of them honestly — regions, costs, the legal process, what to expect, what to avoid. You get a written summary within 24h.

  • Full Q&A about moving to Costa Rica
  • Region selection advice
  • Legal process overview
  • Cost of living breakdown
  • Written summary within 24h
  • In English, French, or Polish
Book a Consultation
Full accompaniment
VIP Relocation Package
Custom quote
I take on a maximum of 3 relocation projects per year.

For people who want someone local by their side through the entire process — property visits, bank appointments, legal meetings, and settling in.

  • Property search & site visits
  • Bank account setup (in person)
  • Legal process with trusted notary
  • Car purchase support
  • Local introductions & contacts
  • On-call support throughout
Start with a Free Call

Why Costa Rica — beyond the nature

Most people who end up moving here fall in love with the nature and climate. So did I. But I also did my homework before making the move.

Stable democracy

The president and government are elected through free, multi-party elections. The constitution separates executive, legislative, and judicial powers. Over 75 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, in a region where that is genuinely rare. In 1948, Costa Rica abolished its army entirely — redirecting that budget into healthcare, education, and environmental protection. The results are visible.

A growing economy

Foreign investment is booming — semiconductors, medical devices, high-tech. Strong institutions, dollar-friendly, and an economy that keeps outperforming the region — driven by one of the best-educated workforces in Latin America.

~100% renewable energy

Costa Rica regularly produces and runs on 100% renewable electricity. That was a real factor in my decision to move here.

Tico culture

Ticos are warm, genuinely helpful, and deeply rooted in their traditions. People greet strangers, neighbours share meals, communities gather for festivals and football. That matters more than most people expect when they decide where to build a life.

Land for sale in Puriscal, Costa Rica

Off-market land in the Puriscal region

Several of my neighbours are selling land in the Puriscal region at prices you won't find on any real estate website. Beautiful plots — some with views, some with water, some with forest — at genuinely fair local prices. If you're interested in buying land in Costa Rica, this is the kind of opportunity that only comes through personal contact.

Ask me about it — free call

Common questions about moving to Costa Rica

Can foreigners buy property in Costa Rica?

Yes. Costa Rica has some of the most foreigner-friendly property laws in Latin America. Foreigners have exactly the same property rights as Costa Rican citizens. You do not need residency to purchase land or a house.

Do I need a lawyer to buy land?

Yes — all property transactions require a notary-lawyer (notario). This is actually a protection for you. I work with a trusted local lawyer who handles this professionally. I can connect you directly.

Can I open a bank account as a foreigner?

Yes, but the process varies by bank. Some are more accessible to foreigners than others. I know which banks work best and what documentation you need. I can also accompany you to the appointment.

What does land cost in the Puriscal region?

Significantly less than beach areas or San José suburbs. Prices vary by plot size, access, and features — but you can find beautiful land with fruit trees, water, and views at prices that would surprise most visitors. Contact me for current opportunities.

Is Costa Rica safe to live in?

Yes — it is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Latin America. There is no military. The Puriscal region where I live is extremely peaceful. My neighbours are farmers and horseback riders.

What language do I need?

Spanish helps but is not required to get started. I work in English, French, and Polish — and I speak Spanish fluently, so I can handle all local contacts, legal meetings, and bank visits on your behalf.

Not sure where to start?

Start with a free 20-minute call. Tell me where you are in the process — thinking about it, seriously planning, or ready to move. I'll tell you honestly what makes sense next.

Book a Free 20-min Call

No pitch. Just an honest conversation about whether this is right for you.