Uncategorized

Green image of the country attracts large investors, pensioners and digital nomads from the US, Canada, England and Germany, among other countries. Living without major complications in a tropical paradise, where the sense of fulfillment and satisfaction with oneself converge when reconnecting with nature after two years of concerns about Covid-19, has made foreign investors, pensioners and digital nomads turn their eyes towards Costa Rica. With this, the real estate market in Guanacaste reports an increase in the value of its properties of up to 20% and with a great possibility of further growth when the interest of Asians in Costa Rica explodes. iving without major complications in a tropical paradise, where the sense of fulfillment and satisfaction with oneself converge when reconnecting with nature after two years of concerns about Covid-19, has made foreign investors, pensioners and digital nomads turn their eyes towards Costa Rica. With this, the real estate market in Guanacaste reports an increase in the value of its properties of up to 20% and with a great possibility of further growth when the interest of Asians in Costa Rica explodes. Santa Teresa, Nosara, Santa Elena, Bejuco and other destinations near the coast are the places where investors are setting their sights. The international prestige of being a country of peace, rights, stability, an environmental benchmark full of natural beauties and with a series of facilities, are also taken into account by foreigners when looking for a place to invest or settle. That is why it is no coincidence that two large construction projects were announced in recent weeks for Guanacaste: a seven-star hotel in the Gulf of Papagayo and the “Nya” real estate development in Liberia. For Randall Fernández, CEO and founder of the consulting firm Ranfer – Networking, the green image, the environmental awards and the country brand have boosted the sale of properties on the coast of Guanacaste. “What is happening is real, there is a demand to have land, to have my house in this paradise, to have my hotel here and Costa Rica is in fashion for Canadians, Germans, English, Americans and that the market has not burst. eastern,” Fernandez said. The topography, the location, the accesses and having an airport that allows them to travel in a short time to other destinations on the planet, are the strong points that Fernández highlights so that foreigners, especially Americans and Canadians, decide to settle in the province. “The pandemic is conjunctural, structural is a beautiful country, spectacular beaches, that is structural, that is not taken away from Costa Rica, two hours from the United States, an airport next to the beaches, what we are seeing is the beginning of a cluster of what Guanacaste is,” Fernández added. But not only the sale of properties will continue to increase, but also their prices, due to the high demand from investors to acquire land from nationals in Guanacaste. “It is very likely that prices will continue to rise as the Costa Rica phenomenon consolidates. Due to its many advantages, Costa Rica has proven to be an alternative with almost no direct competition for luxury tourism and for retired residents of Canada and the United States,” said Allan Rodríguez, president of FCS Capital. Rodríguez believes that this accelerated phenomenon will generate a positive effect on the local and national economy. “The impact on the distribution of wealth and the development of the necessary infrastructure to achieve this consolidation will raise the standard of living of all Costa Ricans, especially those whose skills allow them to offer services to tourists and residents in the coastal areas of the country” Rodriguez added. Another trigger for the rental and sale of properties will be the legalization of digital nomads in the country, since many foreigners are waiting for the regulation to be issued that will allow them to settle for long stays in Costa Rica, to work remotely. Source LA REPUBLICA

In Costa Rica the “Law to attract remote workers and providers of international remote services”, is now a reality thanks to its approval by the National Legislative Assembly’sCommission for Tourism on December 2nd, 2020. Its passing represents an important opportunity for international digital nomads that take the best decision of their life by relocating to the Land of Pure Life, granting them a series of benefits, including a dedicated brand-new immigration category: “Remote Worker or Provider of Remote Services Resident Visa”. This initiative aims to relaunch the Costa Rican economy, bringing to the nation funds and resources digital nomads and their family members. The main aspects of the Law are as follows: It will apply to “foreign nationals who provide remunerated services remotely”, subordinate or not, and as long as the services are received outside of Costa Rica. They will be eligible for a “one-year resident visa, renewable for additional six months”. It is important to recall, that this visa category called “estancia visa” differs from a temporary residency and, no matter how long the person has lived in Costa Rica under the status, it cannot be converted into a permanent residency. It must also be noted that, “estancia visas” are not applicable to family members of the principal applicant, in this case the law states that: “the legal status can also be requested for the entire family group, including spouses, children, and even other family members”. To be eligible for the visa, the person and his family group must demonstrate that: “they receive an income sufficient to comply with the threshold established in the law”. Approval of the applications filed under the new category will benefit from an “expedite process”, which also represents an important plus considering the awfully long standard resolution times of Costa Rican Immigration Authorities. Another important benefit for digital nomads will be the: “total exemption from the payment of income tax in Costa Rica”. The new category will also allow “driver license privileges”. Source THE COSTA RICA NEWS

If you’re considering retirement abroad, you need information, and you need lots of it. But more than that, you need guidance on how to interpret that information. That’s what we’re here for, and that’s why we’ve compiled the 2022 Annual Global Retirement Index: to help you with the exciting business of choosing where in the world will best suit your needs. When it was first conceived, our Retirement Index was our special way of coping with an embarrassment of riches. At that stage, IL had already spent over a decade exploring all manner of dream locales. The result was a huge and exciting variety of choice and opportunity. Fast-forward to 2022. More than three decades have gone by, during which our scouts have scoured every corner of the globe many times over. The result is a much bigger and ever-growing selection of outstanding destinations where you can live a healthier and happier life, spend a lot less money, and get a whole lot more. 2. Costa Rica By Kathleen Evans Sure, the secret has long been out about Costa Rica’s popularity. But that does not stop millions of visitors and new foreign residents from discovering its special brand of enchantment, lured by the country’s tropical climate; lower cost of living; friendly locals; affordable medical care; vast real estate options; and, of course, its natural beauty for which the country is famous. Located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama, a region often plagued by political and civil unrest, it is nice to know that Costa Rica remains a beacon of stability, democracy, and that sought-after laid-back lifestyle. When the government abolished their army in 1948 the world took notice, earning Costa Rica the nickname the “Switzerland of Central America.” That military budget was pledged to education and healthcare. Resulting in education for all and a First-World literacy rate. Plus, healthcare access for all citizens and legal residents with one of the top-rated public healthcare models in Latin America. This republic is internationally known for its tranquility and commitment to the environment—with roughly a quarter of its land protected as national parks and wildlife refuges. The current democratic government, under Carlos Alvarado Quesada*, is considered progressive on most, but not all, political policies. For example, LGBTQ same-sex marriage is legal and women’s rights are mandated. Although readily available, marijuana is not sold legally. Gun laws are also considered strict and possession is only legal for citizens and legal immigrants with permanent residency status. Background and criminal checks, psychological tests, and gun training are mandatory. Hunting is illegal. *Note: the next presidential election takes place February 6, 2022. There are two healthcare systems within Costa Rica–both public and private. Once you have acquired your residency, you pay approximately 7% to 11% of your reported monthly income into the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social healthcare system (Caja for short) and this national medical program is available to you without copays, pre-existing exclusions, or age disqualifications. Residents have the option to blend public healthcare with private medical care either through out-of-pocket self-insuring or with the purchase of private insurance policies. You can purchase these through familiar insurance brand names; priced significantly less compared to a similar policy in the U.S. You will find three JCI-accredited private hospitals in the San José area, as well as numerous private clinics throughout the country. The public system has over 29 hospitals and nearly 250 regional clinics, making it easy to find healthcare no matter where you choose to settle. A couple can live comfortably, but not necessarily extravagantly, here for around $2,000 to $2500 a month. This includes renting a two-bedroom home/condo with North American amenities, air conditioning, plus groceries, entertainment, transportation, and healthcare. If your monthly budget is over $3,000, you will find a relaxed lifestyle with most creature comforts you require. One of the things you hear often from expats is how warm and welcoming the ticos (Costa Ricans) are. They are wonderful people, eager to share the magic of their culture, food, and traditions with foreigners. You will also find engaging international communities of expats who will help you through the process of acclimation. The vast majority of new arrivals say it is very easy to make friends and fit in here. People of color are also finding a more peaceful existence in Costa Rica away from the systemic racism associated with the U.S. The Costa Rican government’s official proclamation rejects all forms of racism and discrimination. Pura Vida is a common Costa Rican phrase. Although it translates to “pure life,” this definition merely scratches the surface of a phrase deeply woven into Costa Rican culture, and used to convey anything from “hello” and “goodbye,” to “great news,” “cheers!” and countless declarations in between. Most expats will confirm they are living a healthier lifestyle once they arrive. Costa Rica is an outdoor playground—with no shortage of physical activities on offer, such as fishing, golfing, horseback riding, hiking, surfing, pickleball, and yoga. Plus, it’s easy to create a healthy diet of less processed food and abundantly healthy choices of locally grown fruits, vegetables, organic eggs, seafood, and grass-fed beef. It is no surprise to hear reports about expats having shed unwanted weight, lowering their blood pressure, taking fewer prescription drugs, and having overall better health of mind, body, and soul. These statistics should come as little surprise since Costa Rica is home to one of only five “Blue Zones” in the world—located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Guanacaste. These zones were discovered by National Geographic longevity researchers in the early 2000s. They consist of regions that have an unusually high population of centenarians (100+ year-olds). Ten times greater than in the U.S. The research confirms qualities such as healthy diets, natural calcium-enriched water, sunshine, active lifestyles, strong familial and friendship ties, and faith contribute greatly to their longevity. Costa Rica, like all of Latin America, is predominantly Roman Catholic with approximately 75% identifying as Catholic. Even so, Costa Rica is considered quite secular. The … Read more

Different countries have launched strategies and campaigns aimed at this type of workers to encourage them to settle in their territories. Taking advantage of the benefits of teleworking, many people now answer their e-mails under a palm tree. Whether they are salaried or self-employed, it is estimated that there are millions of “digital nomads” around the world, a phenomenon that several countries are trying to capitalize on. “I’ve always wanted to live in another country to see what it’s like,” says Sharon (her name has been changed), 28. This American who works in data management left for Mexico City, attracted by the “climate”. The number of these new types of adventurers, most of them young and working in digital-related fields, is difficult to estimate, but they number in the millions. Source EL FINANCIERO

The U.S. news website Time has included Costa Rica as part of its World’s Greatest Places 2021 list. Costa Rica is one of 100 total destinations selected to the list. Time chose locations “with an eye toward those offering new and exciting experiences.” “Thanks to Costa Rica’s conservation efforts, forests now cover 53% of the country’s lands—a dramatic reversal after decades of severe deforestation—and 98% of its energy comes from renewable sources, a strong step toward its goal of becoming one of the world’s first decarbonized nations by 2050,” their description reads. President Carlos Alvarado said the recognition highlights the relationship between conservation and the economy. “Time places us among the 100 greatest destinations in the world to visit in 2021, emphasizing the commitment Costa Rica made with the environment,” President Alvarado said. “The route to decarbonization and the tradition of respect for the environment are an example and promote economic recovery.” The Tourism Minister, Gustavo Segura, has called the sector “a vehicle for the economic reactivation that the country needs.” Source THE TICO TIMES

Through an internal study, two Florida companies identified that Costa Rica is the country where most Americans are settling lately and, therefore, decided to develop a real estate project of 1,800 luxury homes in the Osa Peninsula, in the southern area, Puntarenas. “Americans have been attracted to its peaceful nature, cultural diversity, tropical climate, amazing biodiversity, hundreds of pristine beaches, benefits to Americans and laid-back lifestyle. What was once a vacation or retirement destination is now a place Americans of all ages call home,” the developers said. Source LA NACIÓN

The regulations seek to position Costa Rica as a filming destination for large, medium and small film and audiovisual companies. With a series of incentives, the law will generate investment, productive linkages and the hiring of Costa Rican human talent for the execution of works. This instrument strengthens the competitive fund for financing national audiovisual and film projects, El Fauno. The President of the Republic, Carlos Alvarado Quesada, signed this Tuesday, November 16, the “Law for the Attraction of Film Investments in Costa Rica” (N.10071), approved in second debate by the Legislative Assembly -unanimously-, by 40 deputies, on October 12, 2021. The activity took place at the Presidential House with the participation of President Alvarado, the Minister of Culture and Youth, Sylvie Durán, and the Minister of Tourism, Gustavo Segura -signers of the law together with the Ministers of Finance, Foreign Trade and Economy, and Industry and Commerce. Also in attendance were congressman Carlos Ricardo Benavides and legislator Laura Guido, proponents of this initiative, the general director of the Centro de Cine, Raciel del Toro Hernández, and José Castro, Costa Rica’s film commissioner. President Alvarado highlighted the importance of this law, whose objective is to position the country as a filming destination for large, medium and small film and audiovisual companies, which generate investment, productive linkages and hiring of personnel for the production of works. The President mentioned among the benefits of the new regulations, the increase in foreign capital investment, the generation of employment and economic reactivation, as well as the range of opportunities that will open up for the development of Costa Rican talent in the entire range of audiovisual production. Among the film activities considered for the benefits granted by the law are short, medium and feature films; documentaries, series and novels; audiovisual marketing pieces, commercials and video clips, as well as post-production services, drawing, digital animation, and video games, among others. Minister Durán agreed that the approval of the law “translates into economic dynamism, both for the sector and Costa Rican professionals linked to filmmaking, as well as for those who are involved in the activity from many different angles: the person who prepares lunches for the production team, those who assist, apply makeup and design, the driver who collaborates in the logistics and transportation of equipment and personnel, hotel occupancy, technological or post-production services. “In short, it is a law that opens a wide window of possibilities to boost the economy around the audiovisual activity in the country,” he stressed. For the general director of the Film Center, “the signing of the Law to Attract Film Investment in Costa Rica is a historic achievement, not only for what it represents in terms of attracting foreign capital, job creation and economic reactivation, but also because it means the tangible recognition of an increasingly thriving sector, and will contribute to enhance the vast national talent and strengthen the financing mechanisms of our own content. Incentives. One of the most important incentives of the law is that it will allow foreign productions and co-productions of national and international capital, with an investment in Costa Rica of over $500,000, to be reimbursed 90% of the Value Added Tax (VAT). The remaining 10% will be directed to the Fund for Audiovisual and Cinematographic Promotion “El Fauno”, in charge of the Costa Rican Center for Cinematographic Production, an institution of the Ministry of Culture and Youth, to promote national talent. Other benefits to be granted by the law are: exemption from income tax for those actors, producers and foreign personnel who receive their payments abroad; temporary importation of equipment and spare parts for film and audiovisual production into the territory with suspension of all import taxes, as well as exemption from guarantee deposit; exemption from all import taxes, levies, duties or contributions on tools, costumes, makeup, scenery and technical material required for the realization of the project; and persons in charge of bringing in materials, equipment or costumes for the project will be provided with the entry of the corresponding luggage, without payment of taxes or other charges. Referring to the importance of this legislation, José Castro, Costa Rica’s film commissioner, commented that since the establishment of the Film Commission in the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER), “we have been working to attract audiovisual investment and even with important promotional arguments such as our locations, we have lost up to $114 million in audiovisual projects in a period of 24 months, projects that opted for countries that offered financial incentives. He added that “today, we are developing Audiovisual Friendly Zones in rural territories, where international projects and national productions will be able to make the most of the benefits of this law”. Source GOBIERNO DE COSTA RICA

Country won bronze in the outstanding Wanderlust Travel Awards 2021 Costa Rica was awarded as the third most desirable destination for travelers in the world at the Wanderlust Travel Awards 2021, a renowned award organized by Wanderlust magazine, which specializes in tourism and travel. The 20th edition of the awards, based in the United Kingdom, awarded the country the bronze prize in the “Most Desirable Destinations 2021” category. The gold and silver awards went to Australia and Japan, respectively. Costa Rica’s stand was unveiled as the country participates in the virtual mode of the World Travel Market, one of the world’s largest tourism trade fairs, in addition to ongoing promotional efforts in the United Kingdom. A group of 11 companies are promoting themselves this week at that fair and in the United Kingdom, which is one of the most important emitters of tourists to Costa Rica in Europe. In the first 10 months of 2019, total arrivals by air of UK citizens to Costa Rica reached 56,986 people, the highest number of Europeans at that time, followed closely by France, with 56,676 tourists; Germany, with 53,373; and Spain, with 52,734 visitors. During this 2021, arrivals to Costa Rica of citizens from the United Kingdom have been greatly affected by the requirements imposed in that country and the suspension of direct flights. Even so, between January and October of this year, 9,521 visitors from that origin have arrived. Source LA NACIÓN

A pleasant tropical climate all year round, unspoiled or undeveloped beaches of volcanic sand on the Pacific coast and fine white sand in the Caribbean. Volcanic sand on the Pacific coast and fine white sand in the Caribbean, natural wooded areas that are home to 6% of the planet’s biodiversity, and the ease of having fun with and the facility to have fun with a lot of activities provided by the accommodations: hiking, yoga, surfing courses, wellness or multi-adventure sports. These are the reasons that have led a good number of digital nomads to settle indigital nomads to settle temporarily or perhaps permanently in Costa Rica. source EL PAÍS