The Easiest Way to Get Residency in Costa Rica? Have Your Baby in Costa Rica
For most foreign families, Costa Rica residency means proving a monthly income, making an investment or holding a job offer. There’s another route that many people don’t know about: having your baby in Costa Rica. Under Article 13 of the Costa Rican Constitution, a child born in Costa Rica to foreign parents is Costa Rican […]
Property Taxes in Costa Rica: What Every Property Owner Should Know in 2026
Owning property in Costa Rica does not involve just one tax. Instead, property ownership may trigger several different tax obligations at different times: some arise simply from owning the property, others only if the property is rented, and additional obligations may apply if the property is held through a corporation. In our practice, most problems […]
Build or Buy in Costa Rica: The Decision Before the Decision
A legal and financial guide for foreign investors who want to get in well — not just get in fast. Almost every foreign buyer who arrives in Costa Rica asks the same question: “Am I better off buying a finished home, or building my own?” It’s the right question — but it’s usually asked too […]
Constituting a Condominium Regime in Costa Rica
What It Is, When It Must Happen, and Why It Can’t Be an Afterthought If you’re developing a residential or commercial project in Costa Rica with the intention of selling individual units — homes, lots, apartments — you’ve probably heard the term “condominium constitution” or “condominium regime.” What many developers don’t realize is that this […]
Avoid These Costly Legal Mistakes When Buying Property in Costa Rica
Costa Rica continues to attract buyers from around the world looking for a vacation home, retirement property, investment opportunity, or development land. The country’s natural beauty, political stability, and strong property rights make it an attractive destination for foreign investors. As a real estate attorney in Costa Rica, I have had the opportunity to assist […]
Should You Buy Property in Costa Rica in Your Personal Name or Through a Corporation?
If you are considering buying property in Costa Rica, one of the first structural decisions you will face is whether to register the property in your personal name or through a Costa Rican corporation. The answer depends on your goals, budget, intended use of the property, and overall risk tolerance. Both options are perfectly legal […]
Real Costs of Buying Property in Costa Rica: What You Pay at Closing and Every Year
When someone buys property in Costa Rica, they almost always ask the same question: how much do you pay in taxes? That’s not the right question. It’s not just about taxes — it’s about understanding that there are two types of costs: those you pay once at closing, and those that stay with the property […]
Property Donations in Costa Rica: How to Use Them Well (and When Not To)
In Costa Rica, property donations are often seen as a shortcut. Many people believe it’s an easy way to transfer assets, avoid taxes, or simplify family matters. But in practice, it’s not that simple. A donation is not a trick. It’s a powerful legal tool. When used properly, it can help organize assets, prevent future […]
Costa Rica as a Jurisdiction for Holding and Contracting Entities in International Structures
Costa Rica is not typically the first jurisdiction entrepreneurs consider when structuring international companies. Most founders initially evaluate jurisdictions such as Singapore, the UAE, the Netherlands, or traditional offshore centers. However, in recent years a growing number of international entrepreneurs have started evaluating Costa Rica as part of their global corporate structures. At Magma Legal, […]
Buying a Beachfront Property in Costa Rica?
What You Must Understand About the Maritime Zone Before You Sign Anything Buying a beachfront property in Costa Rica is a dream for many: ocean views, direct beach access, and strong long-term investment potential. However, beachfront real estate in Costa Rica operates under a very specific legal framework that differs significantly from inland property. If […]