Property Ownership Rules in Costa Rica

---

Many international buyers ask: can foreigners buy property in Costa Rica? The short answer is yes. Costa Rica offers strong ownership rights to foreign buyers, with the same legal protections granted to citizens in most circumstances.

However, there are important distinctions to understand, particularly regarding beachfront and maritime zone property.

Buying Property in Costa Rica as a Foreigner

Foreign individuals and foreign-owned corporations can legally purchase and hold titled property in Costa Rica. Ownership is recorded in the National Registry and protected under Costa Rican law.

There are no nationality restrictions for most standard residential and investment property purchases.

• No requirement for local citizenship
• No mandatory local partner for titled land
• Equal property rights in most cases

Many buyers choose to purchase through a Costa Rican corporation for tax or estate planning purposes, though this depends on individual circumstances.

Titled Property vs Concession Property

Understanding the difference between titled land and concession land is essential when buying property in Costa Rica.

Titled Property

Titled property is fully owned land registered in the National Registry. Most inland homes, condos, and developments fall into this category.

Concession (Maritime Zone) Property

Beachfront property within 200 meters of the high tide line often falls under Costa Rica’s Maritime Zone Law. This land is technically owned by the state and granted under a renewable concession agreement.

The maritime zone is divided into:

• The first 50 meters – public land (cannot be owned)
• The next 150 meters – concession land (renewable lease structure)

Foreign ownership of concession property may have percentage restrictions if held personally rather than via a corporation.

Legal advice is essential when purchasing maritime zone property.

Due Diligence and Legal Process

Buying property in Costa Rica typically involves:

• Independent attorney review
• Title verification through the National Registry
• Corporate structuring (if applicable)
• Escrow arrangements
• Transfer tax and registration fees

Unlike some countries, transactions are attorney-driven rather than handled by notaries or estate agents.

Property Taxes and Holding Costs

Costa Rica has relatively low annual property taxes compared to many North American and European markets. Luxury homes may also be subject to an additional property tax band.

Buyers should also consider:

• Municipal taxes
• Condominium association fees
• Corporate annual filing requirements (if applicable)

Is Buying Property in Costa Rica Safe?

When proper legal due diligence is conducted, Costa Rica is considered a stable and secure jurisdiction for property ownership. Most issues arise from insufficient legal review rather than structural legal weakness.

Working with a qualified Costa Rican real estate attorney is strongly recommended before signing purchase agreements.

Explore Available Property

If you are considering buying property in Costa Rica, explore available listings across coastal and inland regions.

Search Costa Rica Listings

Browse Regions

Common Buyer Questions

• Can foreigners own beachfront property?
• Is concession land safe to buy?
• Should I buy through a corporation?
• Are property rights secure?
• What taxes apply?

Next Guide

Costa Rica Investment Guide