A country without an army

Costa Rica abolished its army in 1949 and put the money that would have gone on defence into schools and healthcare. The result is Central America’s most stable democracy, with high literacy, a functioning health system and a standard of living that stands out in the region. It has been an OECD member since 2021.

For a European it is a place where the tropical climate does not come at the cost of legal certainty. Property ownership is effectively open to foreigners and the land registry works.

What Costa Rica offers

• Residence programmes for people of independent means, retirees and investors.
• Property open to foreign buyers without special restrictions.
• Electricity almost entirely from renewable sources.
• A developed service sector, medical tourism and precision manufacturing.

What to watch

Costa Rica is not the cheapest country in the region — property and living costs are higher than in its neighbours and in tourist areas approach European levels. You pay for stability and for things working. Official procedures are thorough and take their time.

We advise on choosing the right residence programme, on buying property and on setting up a company and its tax position.