FAQ'S
ABOUT COSTA RICA
Why Join AmCham? - Membership Services
How do I join AmCham? - Please read and fill out the Membership Application.
Do I have to be an American Company to join AmCham?
No, AmCham has a diverse membership and welcomes companies from all over the world.
Where can I find information about the business climate in Costa Rica?
U.S. Commercial Service Country Commercial Guide
U.S. Department of State 2011 Investment Climate Statement-Costa Rica
Where can I get information about obtaining a work permit in Costa Rica?
Foreigners are not allowed to work in Costa Rica unless they become Permanent Residents or under special legal provisions. Permanent residents under the “Pensionado” or “Rentista” status are not permitted to work either. Another way to become a permanent resident is the “Resident Investor " status, which is granted by the government to anyone who invests in government - approved business. After 3 to 5 years as a temporary resident you can apply for permanent residency. The government will issue work permits for certain jobs if employers can prove they can’t find qualified Costa Ricans. The work permit must be renewed every year. If you quit or lose your job, you will also lose the job permit.
Foreigners are not allowed to work in Costa Rica unless they become Permanent Residents or under special legal provisions. Permanent residents under the “Pensionado” or “Rentista” status are not permitted to work either. Another way to become a permanent resident is the “Resident Investor " status, which is granted by the government to anyone who invests in government - approved business. After 3 to 5 years as a temporary resident you can apply for permanent residency. The government will issue work permits for certain jobs if employers can prove they can’t find qualified Costa Ricans. The work permit must be renewed every year. If you quit or lose your job, you will also lose the job permit.
For more information on work permits please contact your nearest Costa Rican Consulate. If you are interested in moving to Costa Rica you can contact the Association of Residents of Costa Rica
Where can I get information about Tourism in Costa Rica?
According to your specific request, the National Tourism Chamber - CANATUR - Costa Rican Tourism Board provides information on tourism in Costa Rica.
According to your specific request, the National Tourism Chamber - CANATUR - Costa Rican Tourism Board provides information on tourism in Costa Rica.
Where can I find tourist or expatriate information?
The Association of Residents of Costa Rica (ARCR) , will answer your questions regarding entry requirements, duty- and tax-free issues, currency, safety and security and much more.
The Association of Residents of Costa Rica (ARCR) , will answer your questions regarding entry requirements, duty- and tax-free issues, currency, safety and security and much more.
Where can I find information about the economy of Costa Rica?
The World Bank Group Ease of Doing Business in Costa Rica
The World Bank Group Ease of Doing Business in Costa Rica
Where can I find information about taxation in Costa Rica?
AmCham Business Guide
CINDE – Taxes in Costa Rica
Taxation information for United States citizens residing in Costa Rica
Where can I find information about exporting to the United States?
PROCOMER
Costa Rica Free Trade Zone - Import-Export
What are some investment opportunities in Costa Rica?
Over the last thirty years, Costa Rica has become an attractive country for foreign investment due to its stable government and educated population. The country has transitioned from an agricultural economy centered around bananas and coffee to a more advanced sectors, attracting world class companies such as IBM, P & G, Hewlett-Packard and Intel. In fact, in 2000 Costa Rica earned more from high technology exports such as microprocessor production and outsourcing telecommunications services than from coffee or bananas. In addition, the eco-tourism industry within the country is rapidly growing.
For more information about investment opportunities in Costa Rica, visit CINDE
Over the last thirty years, Costa Rica has become an attractive country for foreign investment due to its stable government and educated population. The country has transitioned from an agricultural economy centered around bananas and coffee to a more advanced sectors, attracting world class companies such as IBM, P & G, Hewlett-Packard and Intel. In fact, in 2000 Costa Rica earned more from high technology exports such as microprocessor production and outsourcing telecommunications services than from coffee or bananas. In addition, the eco-tourism industry within the country is rapidly growing.
For more information about investment opportunities in Costa Rica, visit CINDE
Where can I find information about importation laws, policies and taxes into Costa Rica?
The Costa Rican Legal Information Site
Costa Rica customs
The Costa Rican Legal Information Site
Costa Rica customs
Where can I find information about Free Trade in Costa Rica?
What information should I know if I am considering retiring in Costa Rica?
The Association of Residents of Costa Rica (ARCR)
Information about permanent residence
The Association of Residents of Costa Rica (ARCR)
Information about permanent residence
Information: chamber@amcham.co.cr





