How to move to Costa Rica from Canada

Moving to Costa Rica from Canada is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with challenges and important decisions. In this guide, we’ll look at the administrative essentials for securing the right visa, steps to take before leaving Canada, and what to expect when settling into life in Costa Rica. We’ll also discuss cost estimates, transportation options, healthcare systems, and tips for managing your money efficiently — like using Wise to hold CAD, USD, and CRC while converting funds at the mid-market exchange rate.

What are the administrative essentials for moving to Costa Rica from Canada?

No international move is complete without proper documentation, so let’s discuss what you’ll need.

1. First, you’ll need the appropriate residence permit or visa, which will depend on why you’re moving.

2. It's important to consult a tax professional before moving internationally.

Since every situation is different, a specialist can help you understand how your new non-resident status may affect your income tax filings or any potential departure tax obligations.

How long does the Costa Rican visa process take?

A Costa Rican visa typically takes about 30 days to process⁴. However, if you’re applying for a digital nomad visa, it may take between 15 days and two months.

Things to take care of in Canada before moving to Costa Rica

To help you get things in order before you move, we’ve prepared a list of things that you should address.

• Inform your banks, credit card companies, any insurance companies, and government agencies such as the Canada Revenue Agency and Service Canada.
• Close your bank accounts: It might help to close your accounts in Canada, in case you pay monthly fees or have inactivity fees to pay.

• If you’re going to be converting currency — or holding funds in another currency — it’s a good idea to open a Wise account!
• Arrange for Canada Post to redirect your mail to Costa Rica. You have 6-month and 1-year options.
• Book an appointment with your doctor and get copies of any medical records so you’re able to continue treatments when you get to Costa Rica.
• If you’re traveling with a cat or dog, Costa Rica does not require quarantine, as long as your pet arrives as carry-on, checked baggage, or in the cargo hold. This policy typically applies to animals under 15 pounds.⁵ For example, Air Canada allows small cats or dogs in the cabin if they fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat, with enough room to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down.⁶
• Cancel any memberships or subscriptions that you have here in Canada.

Travel expenses for flying from Canada to Costa Rica

Please note that prices will vary depending on:

• time of booking and
• time of travel besides other factors.

Preparing for your stay in Costa Rica before leaving Canada

Don’t head to Costa Rica without thorough preparation. Consider the following steps before you leave.

Estimation of monthly expenses

The following is a cost-of-living breakdown based on 1 person without rent.

Currency rates are as of December 17, 2024, at 6PM

Cultural differences to watch out for

“Tico Time”: While North Americans are often time-conscious and rushed, Costa Ricans have a more relaxed approach to punctuality. People may arrive late, even with commitments, and sometimes may not show up at all

Communication: While Canadians are polite, we’re also very blunt and direct. Canadians tend to be direct and straightforward, but in Costa Rica, bluntness is disliked and saying ‘no’ is considered impolite.⁹

Get more out of your money with Wise

Since the US dollar is one of the main currencies in Costa Rica, it’s important for Canadians to get the most out of their money. With a Wise account, you’ll get the following:

• Local account details in more than 10 currencies.
• The ability to manage over 40 currencies from your Wise account, including CAD, EUR, and USD.
• The advantage of the mid-market exchange rate when receiving or converting currencies — an excellent feature when traveling or shopping online in other currencies
• Minimal transfer fees starting at 0.48%^*
• You can send money to over 160 countries

Transportation in Costa Rica

What’s the best way to get around Costa Rica?

• Many Costa Ricans don’t own cars since they have an excellent public transportation network that covers about 90% of the country. The buses are inexpensive — typically under $1.50 — and they’re safe. They are in operation from 4 AM to 10 PM. For newcomers, navigating this system can be confusing, so it’s recommended to use the Moovit app for directions and bus information.
• If you’re working in the city, avoid driving during rush hour (which starts as early as 5 AM) because traffic can be extremely heavy.
• If you’re taking a taxi, only use Costa Rica’s official taxis, which are red with a yellow triangle. They have a plate that indicates what province they are legally able to operate in. Unofficial taxis are personal vehicles, often called ‘taxi pirates,’ and they may charge arbitrary fares. Additionally, many of them don’t have insurance, and their cars aren’t safe.

Health insurance plans in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has universal healthcare, providing citizens and permanent residents with full coverage, including doctor’s visits, hospital treatments, procedures, and prescription drugs. However, anyone has the option to use private facilities and pay their own way.

Health care is handled under the CAJA system or Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, and it is mandatory for all permanent residents to become members.¹⁰

Final Thoughts on Moving to Costa Rica from Canada

Before relocating from Canada to Costa Rica, carefully plan each step of your move. Thoughtful preparation increases your chances of a smooth transition. This includes applying the strategies we’ve outlined and using Wise for optimal currency conversion rates!

Sources:

1. Work visa
2. Retiring to Costa Rica
3. Investing in Costa Rica
4. How long is the visa application process
5. Entering Costa Rica with your pet
6. Flying with your pet
7. Flights to Costa Rica
8. Cost of Living
9. Costa Rican culture
10. Healthcare insurance