Is Tap Water Safe in Costa Rica? What the Rules Actually Say
Costa Rica has a legal standard for drinking water and most of the country meets it — but coverage varies sharply by operator and by canton.
Costa Rica guides & insights
Practical reading for your move, residency application, and life in Costa Rica.
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Disability Pension and Costa Rica Residency: The Pensionado Route Explained
Costa Rica’s pensionado category requires a lifetime pension of at least US$1,000 a month. It does not require you to be retired, and it sets no minimum age — a disability pension can qualify.
Renewing Your DIMEX in Costa Rica: Requirements, Fines and the Three-Month Cliff
Every temporary residency renewal needs proof of Caja affiliation. Over 30 days late costs US$3 a month — but past three months expired, the renewal route closes entirely.
Costa Rica Residency and Citizenship Through Marriage: Two Different Routes
Residency through marriage comes from Migración; citizenship comes from the TSE after two years married and two years in the country. The requirements are not the same.
The Costa Rica Citizenship Test: Who Has to Sit It, and Who Does Not
The Spanish and Estudios Sociales exams are run by the Ministry of Education, not the TSE — and older adults are exempt from the requirement entirely. What the TSE actually asks for.
Apostilles and Documents for Costa Rica Residency: The Rules That End Applications
Every foreign document needs an apostille or consular legalisation — and if it states no validity period, it must be under six months old when you present it. Articles 8 to 12 explained.
Cédula vs DIMEX in Costa Rica: What the Difference Actually Is
A cédula is the national ID for Costa Rican citizens, issued by the TSE. A DIMEX is the identity document for foreigners with an approved migratory category, issued by Migración. Here is what that means in practice.
Costa Rica Environmental Rules: Land, Energy and Air
The forestry law, river setbacks, SETENA permits, the maritime zone and the Article 47 trap — the environmental rules that most often derail foreign property plans.
Public Transport Costs in Costa Rica: Buses, Trains, Taxis and Ferries
What buses, trains, taxis, Uber, ferries and domestic flights actually cost in Costa Rica in 2026 — plus the free travel that over-65s are entitled to.
Police Forces in Costa Rica: Who Does What in a Country With No Army
Costa Rica abolished its army in 1948. The dozen police forces that replaced it, which one to call, how to file a denuncia, and what officers can and cannot do.