I-Passport Index
Americas

Costa Rica

Baseline rank
#70 / 116
Baseline score
63.2
Factor scores

How Costa Rica performs

Tax

78.6
Very strong

Average taxes. Costa Rica sits mid-table on tax, 62nd of 123. Expect a typical tax bill: neither a reason to move here nor a reason to stay away. Personal income tax 0% - 25%, corporate tax 5% - 30%, VAT 13%.

Source: Heritage Foundation, Index of Economic Freedom (Tax Burden sub-score)

Safety

62.8
Moderate

Average safety. Safety here is about average for the countries we cover: Costa Rica is 53rd of 117.

Source: Institute for Economics and Peace, Global Peace Index

Cost of Living

67.1
Strong

Fairly expensive. Everyday life costs more here than in most countries we cover (95th of 118). Budget for it.

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Index

Education

44.3
Weak

Good education. Education here is stronger than in most countries we cover: Costa Rica is 43rd of 120.

Source: UNDP & MBRF, Global Knowledge Index

Every figure is published by the institution named against it. We do not adjust, model or estimate the underlying values. See the formulas.

Tax and citizenship

The detail behind the scores

Taxation

Corporate income tax 5% - 30% Applicable tax rate varies based on the amount of income earned.
Personal income tax 0% - 25% Applicable tax rate varies based on the amount of income earned.
Standard VAT 13%

Rates change without notice. Confirm with the relevant tax authority before acting.

Naturalization Requirements and Immigration Pathway

Residence for naturalization
7 years
Language requirement
Yes
Proficiency in Spanish language
Investment Immigration Pathway
Costa Rica Residency Permit
Official language
Spanish
Dual citizenship
Allows dual citizenship
Pathways

1 immigration pathway

Costa rica residency permit
Processing time: 3-9 Months
Program details

Program terms change. Always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before acting. This page is informational and is not legal or tax advice.

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Elsewhere in Americas