There are no exchange controls in Costa Rica

Based on Spanish Civil Law

There are no income taxes on income earned outside of Costa Rica

There are capital gains taxes

There are no inheritance taxes

There is no tax on interest income from Costa Rican banks or government bonds

There are corporate income taxes on a sliding scale from 5% to 30%

There is a 13% sales tax now called IVA

There is an exchange of information treaty with the USA

There is no tax treaty with Canada

Independent since 1821

Current constitution was passed in 1948

Republican form of government, with a President

No military

Elections are for a 4-year term

Constitutional court can overrule legislation that contravenes the constitution

Rights of property ownership are in the constitution

Non-residents can have companies, own land, and operate businesses in Costa Rica

Non-residents are protected by the constitution

Land and company registries are similar to those found in North America, and are computerized. Casa Canada has direct computer access to the Central Registry for on-line property, vehicle and company searches

Reliable international direct dial telephone and fax

Cellular telephone service from various companies

Internet services, including high speed Internet

Most major courier services are available

Banks transfer funds in and out by wire without restriction

Frequent direct airline connections to North America, South America and Europe

There are three state owned banks in which the government guarantees deposits without limit

Many private banks including major international banks

Banks and the stock market are supervised by the Central Bank of Costa Rica through regulatory agencies