Q24N — During the 18th China-Latin America and Caribbean Business Summit, Laureano Ortega Murillo announced that all Chinese companies establishing themselves in Nicaragua will be exempt from all taxes, including income tax, value added tax (VAT), dividends, and import duties.
According to the new Belt and Road Special Economic Zones Law (Ley de Zonas Económicas Especiales de la Franja y la Ruta), Chinese companies will also have preferential access to state resources and infrastructure, reduced energy rates, and “terrenos estatales” (state-owned land) for industrial projects.
In August, the Nicaraguan National Assembly approved a law that any land, building or body of water in Nicaragua within 15 kilometers of its borders is state property and be “under the protection of the Nicaraguan Army” and that its ownership belongs to the State, without specifying in what cases or conditions current uses may be maintained by individuals, companies or communities.
Ortega stated that this alliance will generate “thousands and thousands of jobs for the Nicaraguan people” and reaffirmed his political support for the Xi Jinping government.
However, economists and opposition voices warn that this law deepens a model of subservience, reducing national sovereignty and the country’s fiscal control.
Nicaragua hopes that China will become one of its main suppliers of raw materials, inputs, capital goods, consumer goods, machinery, and equipment, among others, and a buyer of Nicaraguan agricultural exports, and that it will invest in the establishment of companies in free trade zones.
According to the initiative, the Special Commission that will be in charge of the Directorate of the Zonas Económicas Especiales (ZEE) — Special Economic Zones Regime — will be made up of seven officials and will be headed by the presidential advisor for the Promotion of Investments, Trade and International Cooperation, a position held by Laureano Ortega Murillo, son of the dictatorial couple, Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo.
Q COSTARICA — The increasing installation of telecommunications poles in residential areas has generated a wave of complaints from residents in various parts of the country.
Communities in San José, Heredia, and other areas assert that the proliferation of telecommunications poles is progressing without control or planning, negatively impacting urban aesthetics, pedestrian mobility, and citizen safety.
The issue gained prominence following a recent ruling by the Administrative Appeals Court, under case number 25-001168-1027-CA-2, which upheld the closure of a telecommunications pole in Pavas for violating the General Law of Public Roads.
The ruling orders that the closure seals remain visible, after determining that the structure posed an “imminent risk” by encroaching on the right-of-way, being located on a curve, and—according to residents—having been constructed without any technical basis.
Residents affected by the increasing installation of telecommunications towers complain that narrow streets, encroached sidewalks, and repetitive structures are transforming their communities into unsafe, cluttered, and visually overwhelming environments.
In addition to the aesthetic impact, they warn of safety and mobility risks. For example, some residents assert that the infrastructure lacks stability, as it concentrates a great deal of weight without a solid foundation, posing an imminent danger, especially in residential areas with high pedestrian traffic, including senior citizens and children.
Furthermore, they allege visual pollution, since many of these new towers are being built in parks and on public sidewalks, preventing them from exercising their right to a healthy and ecologically balanced environment.
Finally, other residents claim that the lack of technical expertise in the installation of these structures is jeopardizing road safety, the physical integrity of individuals, and consequently, human life.
Lack of urban planning and regulatory gap
The court ruling has reignited the debate about the lack of planning in the installation of telecommunications poles. While the country is making progress in implementing next-generation networks, the installation of structures is being carried out—according to experts—without a comprehensive public policy that guarantees a balance between connectivity, sustainability, and urban order.
“What we are seeing is the result of years of improvisation. Technology is vital for development, but it must be integrated harmoniously into our cities,” stated architect and urban planning expert Adriana Fuentes Fernández.
Currently, to install a telecommunications structure, the interested company must request permission directly from each municipality, based on a regulation that does not prioritize the shared use of telecommunications towers and, on the contrary, incentivizes the indiscriminate and low-cost use of public space. For this reason, one can now see cantons in the country where up to three structures from different operators exist in the same area.
“It’s not about halting connectivity, but about planning it with vision. Every poorly placed or duplicated pole represents a setback in the quality of public space, which is the soul of our cities. Likewise, when they are installed without taking the necessary precautions, they can pose a significant risk to residents,” Fuentes stated. “Clearly, nobody wants a telecommunications pole installed in front of their house when there are many other options for building orderly infrastructure in harmony with the city,” he commented.
Fuentes explains that the situation not only affects urban coexistence but also the potential for sustainable development.
“Public space is not an empty lot where anything goes; it is a common good that reflects who we are as a society. If we don’t plan, we will turn our cities into congested, unsafe, and unlivable areas,” Fuentes declared. “In Latin America, public space is a scarce resource, and every square meter must be managed as a priority in conjunction with the communities because, ultimately, public space belongs to all citizens,” he added.
Given this situation, urban planning specialists agree on the urgent need for a coordinated national plan that prioritizes the efficient use of existing infrastructure and incorporates technical and environmental criteria. They also urge municipalities to get involved so that—together with citizens—a decision can be made regarding public space and future urban development related to telecommunications.
“Costa Rica faces a crucial challenge today, and as a society, we urgently need the competent authorities to address this critical situation for the benefit of all the country’s inhabitants,” Fuentes concluded.
Q COSTARICA – The holiday season in Costa Rica is almost here. It’s that time when many people leave the city behind, chasing sunshine, beach days, mountain breezes, and the laid-back feel of resorts. But while everyone’s out enjoying themselves, some sneaky folks see it as the perfect chance to sneak into empty homes.
That’s why the Theft and Robbery Section of Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ for short) urges everyone to take some simple steps to avoid becoming a victim—and just another crime statistic.
A few quick tips: don’t leave your garage door wide open while you’re loading up the car. Take a good look around your driveway before you pull away. Pause any newspaper delivery and ask a trusted neighbor or friend to grab the pile of flyers stacking up at your doorstep or mailbox. And whatever you do, don’t leave trash bins sitting out for days—that’s an obvious sign your place is empty.
Security systems matter—alarms, cameras, even razor wire can all add layers of protection. Most break-ins happen when thieves spot an easy target. Make your house less appealing; if it looks like too much trouble, they’ll likely move on.
Community counts too. Neighbors working together, knowing who’s home and who’s away, is a huge help. Check on each other and keep an eye on unusual activity.If you decide to stay put during the holidays, staying safe means being alert. Before you open the door, check who’s outside.
People asking for directions can sometimes be a trick to get you to open up or come outside. Watch for suspicious cars or people hanging around—slow-moving cars with a couple of young guys inside are worth a second glance. And always, triple-check before raising your garage door or gate.
Don’t open it from far away, and if something feels off—a strange car parked nearby or someone tailing you—don’t take chances.
Keep the lights, the TV, or the music on when you’re out to make it look like someone’s home. Avoid a routine schedule for coming and going, and don’t always take the same route.
Dogs can be a great deterrent, too.
Have the local police number handy.
Some neighborhoods have guards with direct lines to the police, who have been stepping up community patrols lately.
This article is a repost of one we originally published back in January 2015.
Q COSTARICA — Chris and his wife are retired 77-year-old Brits. They are permanent residents in a rural area above Grecia, Costa Rica. A few weeks before the events described here, a European widow of similar age that they know had been left for dead in a pool of blood in another part of the area.
She was hospitalized for two weeks. Her smashed legs and joints may never heal.
Chris has written a number of published thrillers. He occasionally writes on international Economics for QCostarica. Read his articles here.
This is his story.
The Shock
It is 5.30 in the evening, just after dark.
I am at the desktop. My wife is putting a CD on the player for our pet, just outside the office. Simone loves opera.’
‘Chris! I heard a loud bang.’
‘I don’t hear anything.’
My wife screams.
I turn to see two guys in black have thrown her on the floor.
Two more grab me and push me to the tiles. All in black, they wear face masks and brandish automatic pistols. They shout,’
‘Kill! Kill!’.
All the rest of the dialogue is in Spanish, bad Spanish on my side.
My wife is still shrieking, thinking of our European friend. One puts a foot on her face to try and shut her up. They are binding my wrists and feet with plastic zip ties. Scared for my wife, I struggle to get up. A pistol is pressed to the side of my head.
‘Don’t hurt my wife, I’ll give you everything you want.’
‘Money! Money!
Again, I try to rise to show them a hiding place.
They push me back down hard, waving their pistols.
‘Stay on the floor!’
They are clearly pumping adrenaline, but their eyes don’t look drugged.
Maybe we can get out of this alive.
They tossed aside the box that the cash was in.
‘Not enough. More money!
Where’s the safe’
I show them as they drag me around. The ties cut into my hands and feet.
‘Keys! Keys! Kill! Kill!’
I am disoriented. They have thrown keys all over the place.
They take some convincing that I do not know where the safe key is
‘The safe isn’t strong. Lever it open.’
They break it open, loading stuff into a backpack!
I tell them I have a pacemaker and chest pain, playing for sympathy, trying desperately to look like someone’s grandad. They soften.
Maybe they saw the huge number of meds in our bedroom, or maybe the family pictures.
Two throw me on the bed and put a pillow under me.
‘Please. Water.’ I croak. I played in a youth theatre when young.
They fetch me some. My beloved is tied to a chair. I beg them to bring her a drink. They do, replacing the duct tape over her mouth.
The bonds cut into our skin. When they are not looking, to comfort her, I wink and give her a thumbs up, as far as I can with the ties.
We are going to get out of this.
They want to go. Ivy is freed of the gag to explain the car and gate controls.
They tell us to stay put for an hour, claiming that they will be watching the house. Then they are gone.
As soon as I hear no noise, I struggle a hand into a bedside drawer. Awkwardly, I open a small Swiss Army Knife, cut myself free, and do the same for my wife, who squeals in pain as I tug at the ties.
I get out of the gate wearing the same flowing Japanese robe I wore during the assault. I walk up to the next house about 80 meters up the road. Banging and rattling the big gates.
I shout for help. Luckily, they let the weird guy in.
The cops are called. Details of the missing car are shared.
The police arrive within a few minutes. Judicial plainclothes detectives follow later and again the next day with a forensic kit.
The car is discovered about 1.5km away in a muddy field. In it are my cell phone, the car keys, and two laptops.
Our good friend, Alan Marks, is fluent in Spanish. He helps us ensure the cops get clear information from us. He drives us into Grecia to start sorting out bureaucracy. A day later, he retrieves the car when it is found. He made a repair. It was a minor but complex problem.
We are overwhelmed with sympathy texts and calls, offering help and money from all our Tico and other friends.
Aftermath
We are amazed and delighted that the ladrones did not smash up the house or the items we gathered on our world travels. If you have to be robbed, try and book these guys.
The next day, we start to suffer from bruises and aches.
If you fall off a horse, you get back in the saddle. We resume our separate exercise regimes, occasionally gritting our teeth.
A TV crew arrived outside while the police were with us. They filmed the drama through the gate.
The incident received a wholly undeserved 20 minutes on the local lunchtime news. They repeated the same pictures and lines many times. In the evening, there was an edited repeat. In England, they say, ‘He was famous in his own lunchtime’. We are celebrities in our barrio for a few days.
The broadcast described us in Spanish as ‘Ancianos Británicos’. In the UK, the Ancient Britons were half-naked barbarians, painted in blue woad. They failed to stop the Romans from defeating and ‘civilizing’ them.
The newscast points out that there are many old single people in houses on the street. The locals are furious that these vulnerable people will become targets from now on.
Advice for those who might suffer from attacks.
Even if you were once a Navy SEAL, if there are many men with guns, be very careful before you resist, especially if loved ones are in the house.
Evaluate the invaders. Are they on drugs? Is one more empathetic? Try and appear helpful and unresisting.
Give them what they want. It is only stuff. Your life is more important.
Maybe keep some crutches in the corner to emphasize weakness.
If you are not already committed to Costa Rica, as we are, consider the many risks more before you move. Never bring jewelry. You’ll never wear it anyway.
Advice for Ladrones
Handle old people with care; they are fragile and confused. Think about how you would like others to treat your own family members.
If you are caught, it might help with your sentence.
Don’t resent foreigners. They are not responsible for Costa Rican problems. Many of us provide work and support whenever we can.
Some of us have had tough lives. Not all have more money than they need.
The neighbors who let me through their gate and offered help are an example. They have organized many projects and sports activities for the local community. They are well-liked by Ticos and expats alike.
Advice for the Government
Well-led cops and the OIJ can do a great job, as in this case. Support them!
The gap between the rich and poor in Costa Rica is dramatic, embedded, and getting worse.
Policies to reduce unemployment, to improve education, and healthcare are costly but are vital. The dire state of the nation’s finances will not allow this to be a quick fix. Some of the money might come from rooting out corruption at the top.
No one likes effective tax collection, but if it is fair and universal, it can become part of the culture. It will be slow progress. You cannot solve long-term and ingrained problems quickly.
PURA VIDA could become reality, but it would take a long time and better politicians.
Q COSTARICA — In the largest police operation in history, Costa Rica dealt a powerful blow to the country’s major cartel, the criminal organization—dubbed the Cártel del Caribe Sur (South Caribbean Cartel) by authorities.
According to Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) Deputy Director Michael Soto, the criminal organization operated as a transnational network involved in drug trafficking, money laundering, and arms trafficking, with a presence on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of Costa Rica.
The operation involved 64 raids across the country in the provinces of Limón, Alajuela, Cartago, Puntarenas, and San José. Among the properties raided by the OIJ were luxury homes in areas such as La Sabana, Escazú, and Curridabat, as well as Chira Island, where the group received shipments from the Pacific.
The operation, dubbed “Operación Traición” (Operation Betrayal), was conducted under the functional direction of the Public Prosecutor’s Office and with the support of the Ministry of Public Security, the San José Municipal Police, the Costa Rican Institute on Drugs (ICD), and other institutions—some 1,200 officers from various police forces and tactical response units.
“This is perhaps the largest operation in the country’s criminal history,” Soto stated. “It has all the components of a cartel: maritime and land logistics, money laundering, internal security, and international connections.”
Over the past few years, the investigation has led to the seizure of 13.7 tons of drugs (including marijuana and cocaine) and 68 firearms, including AR-15 assault rifles.
Authorities also estimate that the assets and vehicles linked to the organization are worth over ¢2 billion colones.
The organization was led by two brothers, Luis Manuel Picado Grijalba (43) and Jordie Kevin Picado Grijalba (32), aliases “Shock” and “Noni”. Both are of Nicaraguan origin: Shock, born in the neighboring country, became a naturalized Costa Rican, while Noni is a native-born citizen, although their family roots are the same.
Shock is currently detained in the United Kingdom, awaiting extradition to the United States, while Noni was captured in Costa Rica and will also be extradited to the United States.
The OIJ highlighted the collaboration of police forces from Colombia, Panama, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States, and France, which provided key information about the cartel’s international operations.
Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the group had an armed wing led by Tony Peña Russel (arrested after multiple raids in Limon, in June 2024), implicated in at least 78 homicides, the subject of 140 previous raids, and having created “hitman schools” in the province of Limón.
OIJ deputy director compared his role to that of “Los Zetas,” the armed wing of the Gulf Cartel in Mexico.
The group also controlled the entry of high-quality Colombian marijuana, which, according to the OIJ, became the most consumed product in the local market. The Cartel operated as a national supplier of cocaine and marijuana, selling shipments to other local drug trafficking groups in the capital, along the coasts, and in rural areas of the country.
It also maintained international routes to the United States and Europe, using Costa Rica’s Pacific and Atlantic coasts to receive shipments from Colombia and redistribute them.
Costa Rican authorities consider this operation a historic blow to drug trafficking and assert that, although some arrests are still pending, the main leaders have already been captured.
Despite the success of the operation, authorities acknowledge that the dismantling of this group could create power vacuums in the Costa Rican Caribbean, a phenomenon that could trigger new violent disputes for territorial control.
The OIJ says it is actively monitoring at least a dozen criminal figures who have been released from prison in recent months and who “could try to fill the void left by the leaders of the South Caribbean Cartel.”
Q COSTARICA — American Airlines inaugurated a direct flight between Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) on Monday, November 3.
The seasonal service between SJO and ORD will operate daily until April 6, 2026. A Boeing 737 with a capacity of 172 passengers, including 16 in business class, will be used.
The flight departs Chicago at 5:13 p.m. and arrives in Costa Rica at 10:13 p.m. The return flight departs SJO at 6:00 a.m. and arrives in the United States at 11:29 a.m.
“At American Airlines, we are proud and excited to launch this daily service between San José and Chicago, as we continue to expand our operations in the nation’s capital,” said Rafael Sánchez, Regional Operations Manager for Central America and the Western Caribbean.
With this new route, customers will be able to connect to the hub in Chicago, which has more than 465 daily flights to over 160 destinations.
“Chicago is a key market for both tourism and business travel, and having this direct connection will allow us to continue boosting visitor arrivals and strengthening the exchange between our two nations,” said Ricardo Hernández, manager of Juan Santamaría International Airport.
During the current tourist season, American Airlines will operate up to 43 weekly flights from Liberia and up to 56 per week from San José. This allows it to increase its seat capacity in Costa Rica by 17%.
Airline Changes
Likewise, the Mexican airline Viva began operating the route between Costa Rica and Monterrey on October 30. This is the first time that the airline has offered a route to Costa Rica.
Starting December 12, WestJet will fly from the Canadian cities of Vancouver and Winnipeg. These flights are not permanent; they will operate until April 25, 2026, coinciding with the peak season. The aircraft has a capacity of 189 passengers.
Another Canadian airline joining the Costa Rican route is Porter Airlines. The Canadian carrier will begin flying to Costa Rica on December 4 from Toronto and Ottawa.
This route also operates during the peak season. It will be available between December and March 5, 2026, with departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Furthermore, starting in December 2025, Air France will increase the frequency of its flights to Costa Rica and from Paris.
The additional flights will operate during two specific periods: from December 15, 2025, to January 11, 2026, and from February 9 to March 15, 2026. During those months, Air France will fly twice daily on Mondays and Saturdays.
While some routes are arriving, others are departing
Information has also emerged about routes being closed or airlines ceasing service to Costa Rica.
Such is the case with GOL, which will no longer fly between Costa Rica and Brazil. Wingo announced the suspension of its route between San José and Bogotá, the capital of Colombia.
Likewise, the last flight on the route between Costa Rica and San Juan, Puerto Rico, in the Caribbean, took place on October 24. This route had been operated by Avianca since last year.
Likewise, Volaris stopped operating the Costa Rica – Tulum route that was inaugurated on July 2nd, and Avianca closed the San Jose-Managua route in October.
Q COSTARICA — Nearly a month after the alleged sexual abuse of a minor was reported, on Monday, 25 legislators asked Fabricio Alvarado, presidential candidate and legislator for the Nueva República party, to waive his immunity.
This would mean the presidential hopeful would have to face the criminal charges and would not be able to hide behind his immunity, which expires on May 8, 2026, when his legislative term ends.
The request was supported by legislators from various political parties: the PLN, Frente Amplio, PUSC (part), PLP, and several independents.
Conversely, 18 legislators from the Chavista movement, Nueva República, and some from the PUSC opposed it.
Dirty Campaign
After asserting that the sexual abuse allegation against him is a smear campaign, Alvarado claimed that the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) and the Frente Amplio were behind the accusations, which he described as “demagoguery” and “cheap politicking.”
“The people are tired of the demagoguery and the dirty campaign of the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) and the Frente Amplio, the same old faces. That’s precisely why they’ve lost popular support. Here I am, I’m Fabricio Alvarado, and I’m not hiding from anyone. I’ve addressed the legal process at the appropriate time, in the appropriate state, and in the appropriate place. Not in the press, because cases shouldn’t be litigated in the press if that’s what they want,” Alvarado stated in a message previously posted on his social media.
According to the ongoing investigation, the complaints against Alvarado were filed in September 2024 and February 2025. One of the complainants is of legal age, while the other is a young woman who was allegedly a victim of abuse and aggravated corruption when she was only 13 years old.
Q COSTARICA — On Monday, November 3rd, the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) — National Insurance Institute — officially launched the collection of the 2026 vehicle registration fee (Marchamo).
The INS, the State institution responsible for providing the mandatory insurance and collection of all taxes and other fees, reported that 1,943,587 vehicles were registered this year. This represents an increase of 58,533 compared to last year (when the figure was 1,885,054).
The INS reminded the public that, due to a law passed years ago, the tax value (valor fiscal in Spanish) of vehicles will always decrease compared to the previous year’s value. However, it clarified that for vehicles 15 years old or older, the assessed value remains the same.
On another note, owners of electric vehicles have not been able to check the exact amount they will have to pay, as with ICE vehicles. This is because electric vehicles in Costa Rica have a 40% exemption on property tax if they entered the country between 2022 and 2024, and a 20% exemption for 2021 models. This data is still being entered into the payment system.
Finance Minister Rudolf Lucke indicated that the change made to the law two years ago, which stopped the periodic increases in the tax value of cars, has resulted in lower revenues from vehicle property taxes.
Lucke explained that, before the law, annual revenue was estimated at ¢220 billion colones. However, with the approval of the legislation allowing for the constant reduction of tax value, the amount dropped to ¢165 billion colones.
Despite this, the expected property tax revenue for 2025 is ¢163 billion colones. Lucke explained that although the amount payable decreases for the vast majority of vehicles, this is partially offset by the increase in the vehicle fleet. Therefore, the decrease is small compared to the projected revenue.
The Marchamo in Costa Rica is comprised of:
The vehicle property tax, calculated annually on the vehicle’s fiscal value
The Mandatory Auto Insurance (SOA)
The sales tax on the SOA
A public transportation fee (if applicable)
A contribution to the Road Safety Council (Cosevi)
Outstanding traffic violations
Wildlife and Scout stamps
What happens if the vehicle registration fee is not paid by the deadline?
If payment is not made before January 1, 2026, late fees will accrue. For the SOA, the annual basic passive rate plus five percentage points will be charged.
For traffic violations, the annual rate will be 36%, and for parking meters, 2% per month, which is capped at the end of the year.
Property tax will accrue interest at a rate of 8.35% per year or 0.02287% per day.
The INS also reminded individuals that failure to pay the corresponding fee may result in fines and vehicle impoundment.
Q COSTARICA — If you rush out to pay the Marchamo (vehicle registration fee) every year, don’t worry about getting a ticket for putting the new sticker on your windshield.
However, be aware that it is mandatory to carry your vehicle registration certificate in your vehicle to avoid any problems.
The Ministerio de Obras Publicas y Transportes (MOPT) — Ministry of Public Works and Transport — issued this clarification on Monday, coinciding with the start of the 2026 Marchamo collection period.
“Owners shouldn’t fear a fine if they put up the 2026 sticker and remove the 2025 one, nor should they worry if they put up the new one and keep the 2025 one,” summarized Martín Sánchez Agüero, Deputy Director of the Policia de Transito (Traffic Police).
Furthermore, the adhesive plastic, along with the piece of paper that comes off the document, must be placed in a visible location on the windshield, taking care to position it so that it’s clearly visible from the outside, and keeping in mind that some vehicles have factory-tinted windows that reduce the document’s visibility.
The collection of the 2026 Marchamo began on Monday, November 3rd.
In total, 1,943,587 vehicle owners must pay the 2026 Marchamo, representing a collection of approximately ¢335 billion colones.
Does your 2026 Marchamo cost more?
This could be the reason. This year, vehicle owners will see an increase primarily due to the rise in the mandatory vehicle insurance (SOA).
This insurance is one of the items included in the Machamo. On average, SOA premiums for 2026 will increase by 10.15% compared to 2025.
The SOA for all vehicles is the same within their class, regardless of their tax value (valor fiscal). In other words, both a late-model luxury car and an old beater pay the same amount for the insurance portion of the Marchamo:
Private vehicles (blue plates) will pay ¢30,238
Light cargo vehicles (red license plates beginning with CL), ¢18,806
Heavy cargo vehicles (red license plates beginning with C), ¢35,004
Motorcycles and mopeds, ¢99,623
Buses, ¢81,060
Taxis, ¢73,300.
The SOA increase applies to all types of vehicles, except light cargo vehicles, for which it decreases by ₡89.
The increase in the number of traffic accidents is what is driving the SOA rates up. Compared to 2023, 2024 saw 4,790 more accidents, with more than 40,000 incidents.
RICO’s Q — The 2026 Marchamo — vehicle circulation permit — became available for purchase on Monday, November 3.
Vehicle owners need to pay by December 31 to keep their rides legal for the year ahead and avoid late fees, daily interest charges, and possible fines and/or vehicle impounding from traffic authorities.
The Marchamo is a combination of various items:
Vehicle property tax, calculated annually on the vehicle’s assessed value
A contribution to the Road Safety Council (Cosevi)
Outstanding traffic violations
Wildlife and scout stamps
Who pays the most and the least for 2026?
The vehicle with the highest Marchamo for 2026 in the “PART-PARTICULAR” category is a 2018 Ferrari, which is required to pay ¢7,192,439 to be able to circulate.
Conversely, the vehicle with the lowest is a 1989 Mitsubishi, which is required to pay ¢73,706 to be able to circulate.
Recognized as the oldest vehicle that still pays the annual Marchamo in Costa Rica as of November 2025, and has appeared in public events, is a 1919 Hudson Super Six, for which the owner pays ¢74,726 colones.
If you own multiple vehicles
If you own multiple vehicles, each license plate is treated separately. This means the amount you owe isn’t a combined total for all your vehicles. You can pay for one or some without it affecting the others registered in your name.
If you have an older car that’s no longer running or might not even be around anymore, but you never officially deregistered it, the INS will keep counting the unpaid years, tack on late fees, and add interest. Don’t worry, though—this won’t impact the registration of any other vehicles you own.
In addition to the annual property tax that makes up the single largest portion of the Marchamo in most cases, it includes the Seguro Obligatorio Autos (SOA) — Mandatory Auto Insurance — which provides coverage in the event of a traffic accident, up to ¢6 million colones per person per event. The SOA covers all individuals involved in a traffic accident, providing medical care, compensation, prosthetics, transportation, and other benefits at critical moments.
Other items include road taxes and contributions to road maintenance funding, among others.
Every vehicle owner in Costa Rica must pay this marchamo each year, typically by the end of December, to legally drive their car in the coming year. The marchamo displays the year and the vehicle’s details, and must be displayed on the windshield.
The fines for failing to pay the marchamo are levied on the vehicle owner.
What are the consequences of not paying the Marchamo?
Accumulation of Interest: Surcharges and daily interest will accrue on the outstanding amount from the first day of delay. This means that regardless of whether the vehicle is driven or not, it’s the registered owner’s responsibility to ensure the marchamo is paid on time.
Traffic Fines: If a traffic officer stops you without a current vehicle registration fee, you will be fined and could lose your license plates.
Vehicle Impoundment: In extreme cases or for repeated violations, the authorities may impound your vehicle.
Impairment of Other Procedures: You will be unable to carry out other important vehicle-related procedures, such as the vehicle inspection, transferring vehicle ownership, or renewing other documents.
Back in the day, vehicle owners usually got a few extra days in early January to pay without penalties, mostly because long lines at the INS and approved payment centers slowed things down. These days, with so many payment options—banks, payment centers, and the INS itself—there’s no longer a grace period.
If my vehicle isn’t road-ready, do I still have to pay the Marchamo?
If your vehicle isn’t road-legal yet—for example, if it hasn’t passed inspection—you can still pay the Marchamo at any INS office to avoid late fees and interest. Just keep in mind, you won’t get the sticker until all the necessary requirements are fulfilled.
What happens if I’m driving a vehicle that isn’t mine and it doesn’t have the Marchamo?
If a vehicle is driven without a Marchamo, both the driver and the registered owner can be fined, although the primary fine is for the driver
Penalty for the driver: A driver caught driving without a current vehicle registration sticker will be fined and risk having their license plates removed.
Penalty for the owner: The vehicle owner is also responsible for the violation, which entails paying late fees and daily interest on the outstanding Marchamo.
Only the registered owner of the vehicle can retrieve an impounded vehicle or license plate.
In summary, the driver receives the immediate penalty on the road, but the responsibility and accumulated costs fall on the vehicle owner.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica ranked sixth in Latin America and the Caribbean in the 2025 Global Innovation Index (GII), published in September by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in conjunction with Cornell University and the European Institute of Business Administration.
The report measures the innovation performance of 139 countries based on 80 indicators grouped into seven pillars: institutions, human capital and research, infrastructure, market sophistication, business sophistication, knowledge and technology output, and creative output.
The results in each area are used to calculate an average score that determines each country’s final ranking.
The index aims to compare countries’ innovation capacity and outcomes and identify areas for improvement and weaknesses.
In the Latin American region, Costa Rica ranks behind Chile, Brazil, Mexico, Uruguay, and Colombia, and ahead of 15 other economies.
The analysis reflects a solid foundation in institutional matters and business structure, while weaknesses persist in talent development, scientific investment, and domestic market development.
Costa Rica’s results across the seven pillars are:
Institutions: 53.5 points (57th)
Human capital and research: 25.7 points (85th)
Infrastructure: 44.3 points (63rd)
Market sophistication: 31.6 points (89th)
Business sophistication: 28.0 points (70th)
Knowledge and technology production: 23.4 points (55th)
Creative production: 16.9 points (88th)
According to WIPO, Costa Rica’s performance is explained by the stability of its institutions, its openness to foreign investment, and the presence of technology companies that have developed local production chains.
Technological infrastructure, internet access, and export capacity in digital goods and services also contribute to its ranking.
However, the country continues to lag in the human capital and research pillar, where it ranks 85th, and in market sophistication, where it ranks 89th.
These results reflect the need to strengthen investment in science education, university innovation, and funding for national technology projects.
Knowledge and technology production, where Costa Rica ranks 55th, remains one of its strongest pillars, driven by its ecosystem of technological services and the presence of multinational companies dedicated to innovation in sectors such as biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and software development.
On the other hand, creative production, ranked 88th, demonstrates the limited development of cultural and digital content industries, areas that other countries in the region have strengthened as sources of innovation and employment.
Globally, Costa Rica ranks 72nd, a drop from the previous year when it was in the top 70.
In the 2024 edition of the Index, Costa Rica obtained an overall score of 28.3 points.
Although it dropped two positions in the global ranking this year, the country maintains its place among the best-performing Latin American economies.
The study highlights that rankings may change annually due to methodological changes or the inclusion of new countries.
In Costa Rica’s case, the slight decline does not represent a structural deterioration, but rather adjustments in relative performance compared to other nations that improved their innovation indicators.
The 2025 Global Innovation Index shows that Latin America and the Caribbean continues to lag behind other regions in terms of investment in research and development, technology adoption, and exports of high-tech products.
The Most Innovative Countries in Latin America
Chile
Brazil
Mexico
Uruguay
Colombia
Costa Rica
Argentina
Peru
Panama
Dominican Republic 22.6
Switzerland remains the most innovative country in the world, followed by Sweden, the United States, South Korea, and Singapore.
Q COSTARICA — With the start of November, the National Insurance Institute, the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS), will begin collecting the 2026 vehicle registration fee.
On Monday, starting at 8:00 a.m.
At this time, the INS has not yet announced the amount vehicle owners will have to pay, as its technicians are still uploading the data.
“The 2026 vehicle registration fee will be collected on the first business day of November, which this year falls on Monday, November 3. Starting at 8:00 a.m. this Monday, INS branches will be open for payments, as well as other authorized locations and the usual information sites. Technical teams are currently uploading data to the systems, so the official information will be available this Monday, once the mass upload is complete,” the INS stated.
As of mid-October, ¢41.5 billion in vehicle registration fees for 2025 remained unpaid by 142,000 vehicle owners, according to the National Insurance Institute (INS).
SOA Increase
Due to a higher number of accidents, drivers will have to pay more for Seguro Obligatorio (SOA) – Mandatory Insurance – in 2026, as previously reported by the General Superintendency of Insurance (Sugese).
On average, the increase will be 10% and will cover all vehicles.
The premiums have already been approved, so there is no going back on the increase; the SOA price hike has already been incorporated into the 2026 vehicle registration fee.
“The new premiums reflect the reality of increased accidents on our roads. The increase aims to guarantee the sustainability of the insurance and adequate protection for victims,” said the Superintendent General of the Sugese, Tomás Soley.
Concern for motorcyclists remains a primary focus.
In 2024, 53.6% of traffic fatalities involved motorcyclists, marking a record high in national statistics.
Q COSTARICA — The national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional – National Meteorological Institute (IMN), reported that the country will continue to experience the first cold front of the season this Saturday, maintaining unstable conditions across much of the national territory.
According to the IMN, the system will bring rain to the Caribbean and Northern regions throughout the weekend, accompanied by moderate wind gusts in the mountainous areas and cool temperatures in the Central Valley.
On the Pacific slope, the forecast indicates partly cloudy skies in the morning, while isolated showers and possible thunderstorms are expected in the afternoon in parts of the Central and South Pacific.
The IMN advises the public to take precautions due to the changing atmospheric conditions, especially on roads and in areas prone to landslides or flooding.
The official weather forecast for this Saturday, November 01, 2025:
This Saturday, the influence of the first cold front over Costa Rica will continue, bringing rain to the Caribbean and Northern regions throughout the day, moderate wind gusts in the mountains, and cool temperatures in the Central Valley due to mostly cloudy skies that prevent high temperatures. On the Pacific side, partly cloudy skies will prevail in the morning, while in the afternoon, isolated showers with a chance of thunderstorms are expected in both the Central Pacific and South Pacific
Q COSTARICA — Former President Laura Chinchilla Miranda (2010 to 2014) urged Costa Ricans on Friday to apply their “indigenous cunning” to the controversial case of Randall Zúñiga, director of the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ), who faces four accusations of alleged rape.
Through her social media accounts, the former president stated that she does not understand those who “rejoice in the situation” of the police chief and asserted that he is one of the “best public servants in the country.”
She also suggested that “indigenous cunning” should be used to analyze beyond the obvious.
“While no complaint should be dismissed and the judges were right to suspend the proceedings to investigate, we are talking about one of the best public servants. Someone who has effectively led the fight against organized crime and local gangs despite government obstacles. I don’t know about you, but our common sense should lead us to ask: why so much diligence and involvement of government officials in this case, when it involves the country’s greatest champion of justice against criminals?” Chinchilla wrote.
Chinchilla’s statements come amid a series of revelations that have called into question the origin and handling of the complaints against Zúñiga.
Despite the National Institute for Women (Inamu) executive president, Yerlin Zúñiga Céspedes, claims “it is false” that a lawyer from the Inamu, gave her the complaint “already drafted”, the alleged victim’s account coincides with that of the defense attorney for the head of the OIJ, Federico Campos, who asserted that officials from INAMU and the Joint Institute for Social Assistance (IMAS) allegedly offered “studies and other gifts.”
“At least two women were approached by officials from these state agencies who offered them something in exchange for a pre-written complaint. One of the complaints has already been filed with the Turrialba Prosecutor’s Office, and another is being filed today,” Campos stated.
Q COSTARICA — The cases against the Organismo de Investigación Judicial director, Randal Zúñiga, took an interesting turn on Friday following raids on his home and office.
Federico Campos, the lawyer for Zúñiga, revealed that there is evidence suggesting that the women who accused the OIJ director of alleged rape may have been pressured by officials from the Instituto Nacional de las Mujeres (INAMU) with education scholarships, and other benefits.
Even more interesting is President Rodrigo Chaves publicly calling “basura” (garbage) the accusation by a woman who claimed that the INAMU tried to bribe her with an education scholarship.
“That’s garbage, like what you (the media) always report (…) Whoever says that is lying. I don’t validate it, never,” Chaves told several media outlets.
The president also said of Zúñiga that his “behavior is disgusting.”
The president’s statement was made when he was approached by journalists as he left a restaurant in San José this Friday, where he had been having lunch with legislator Pilar Cisneros. And coincidentally, Douglas Sánchez, director of Canal Opa, the media outlet that has been publishing a series of reports about the alleged rapes committed by the OIJ official, was also at the restaurant.
Opa was owned by Carlos Valenciano, a businessman who is now part of Laura Fernández’s campaign team.
By Friday night, the Fiscalia (Prosecutor’s Office) had opened a criminal case regarding alleged offers made by Inamu and requested video footage from the restaurant where the president had lunch this Friday.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that this Thursday, it received a statement from a woman who claims that two government officials approached her offering her benefits in exchange for signing a complaint of sexual offenses against the director of the OIJ.
According to the complainant, Yerlin Zúñiga Céspedes, executive president of the INAMU, and a lawyer from the same institution gave her the complaint against Zúñiga “already drafted.”
The woman decided to report the incident after allegedly learning that the document she refused to sign appeared in a report by the media outlet Opa, as reported by Cr Hoy.
Earlier in the week, Zúñiga was suspended from his position for 15 days.
For its part, INAMU categorically denied these accusations. “It is false. It is completely false that INAMU is contacting women to offer them various state benefits and subsidies in exchange for filing complaints against Randall Zúñiga, director of the OIJ,” INAMU stated.
Q24N (Geneva, Switzerland) The United Nations (UN) has urged the United States to halt attacks on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean and the Eastern Pacific, condemning the incidents as “extrajudicial killings.”
In recent weeks, at least 62 people have died in the Caribbean and the Pacific in armed attacks by Washington against what it presented as drug-trafficking boats.
Relatives of the victims say some of them were simply fishermen.
“These attacks, with their mounting human cost, are unacceptable,” wrote UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk in a statement.
“The United States must end such attacks and take all necessary measures to prevent the extrajudicial killings of people on board these vessels, regardless of any alleged criminal activity,” he added.
Türk emphasized that these people died “in circumstances that have no justification under international law.”
The operations are taking place against a backdrop of heightened tension between the United States and Venezuela.
Washington presents its attacks and the air and naval deployment in the Caribbean as part of a strategy against Latin American cartels, which it defines as “terrorist” organizations.
The Trump administration even authorized CIA operations in Venezuela and accuses President Nicolás Maduro of being behind drug trafficking to the United States.
“Addressing the serious issue of illegal drug trafficking across international borders is (…) a matter of law enforcement, governed by the careful limits that international human rights law places on the use of lethal force,” Turk noted.
“The intentional use of lethal force is only permissible as a last resort against individuals who pose an imminent threat to life,” he emphasized.
Along those lines, the official said that “based on the very limited information publicly provided by U.S. authorities, none of the individuals on the attacked vessels appeared to pose an imminent threat to the lives of others.”
Turk therefore called for “swift, independent, and transparent investigations into these attacks.”
Q COSTARICA — In an unprecedented message in Costa Rican political history, Eugenia Zamora, president of the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE)—Supreme Electoral Tribunal— accused President Rodrigo Chaves of threatening the peace and tranquility of Costa Rica during the election period.
In a seven-minute video, accompanied by all the magistrates, Zamora asked for respect for herself as a person, but, more importantly, for her position as a magistrate and president of the electoral body.
The 76-year-old official described the president as disrespectful, accusing him of promoting attacks against her and undermining the integrity of the TSE’s decisions on several issues, such as the investigation into illegal campaign financing for the Social Progress party that brought Chaves to power, the politically charged process to lift the president’s immunity, and the demand that no changes be made to radio and television frequencies until after the elections.
Zamora stated that it was in no way pleasant to be referred to in that manner, adding that this would be the only time the TSE would comment on this matter during the political campaign.
“The national public debate and focus should not be on you, but on the people who aspire to be elected and their proposals for solving the nation’s problems. (…) I deserve respect as a person, and you have failed to show it to me. I am nearing the end of my public service career, and thanks to the wisdom of our constitutional framers, you lack the authority to remove me from office,” Zamora said.
Vehement Message
The magistrate pressed on with a fierce tirade against Chaves.
“So, personally, your statements about me are irrelevant, but they are not irrelevant institutionally and because of the office I hold: when you, distorting the truth, accuse me and my colleagues on the Court of a partisan bias, you are attacking the credibility of the institution we lead, the upcoming electoral process, and the results we will certify. You are threatening the peace and political stability of the country, and that, I repeat, is something we cannot allow,” the official asserted.
The magistrate pointed out that she should not feel ashamed, nor should her authority be undermined, because she served in the government of Óscar Arias between 1986 and 1990, since all of that was public knowledge and part of her fundamental rights as a citizen.
In that regard, Zamora denied any electoral injustice intended to favor or harm any particular political party.
“Having participated in a political party or held a government position does not disqualify anyone from serving as an electoral magistrate in any democracy in the world, because in a democracy, political party participation is not shameful, but a sacred citizen’s right,” the Zamora stated.
Chaves’s displeasure intensified when the TSE asked the Legislative Assembly to lift the president’s constitutional immunity in order to proceed with investigations against him for alleged political activism, a process still under discussion among the legislators. This has prompted strong criticism from Chaves against the TSE and against Zamora herself, given her work four decades ago in the government of Óscar Arias, during a time of two-party rule.
On Wednesday, Chaves dared to claim that the TSE is committing the biggest “constitutional affront” since 1948 because of its actions against him, who, with his high popular approval rating, is a reference and inspiration for the movement represented by former minister Laura Fernández as a presidential candidate in the Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO).
After the TSE’s statement was released, several presidential candidates expressed their support for the electoral body, asking the president to stop the attacks.
Q COSTARICA — This is how our beloved Estadio Nacional (National Stadium) in La Sabana looked over fifty years ago, captured by the lens of photographer Arévalo Durán.
Opened in 1941, this legendary spot was home to countless matches featuring the Selección Nacional (National Team), thrilling Costa Rican soccer finals, civic celebrations, and memorable concerts.
For more than sixty years, the National Stadium stood as the beating heart of Costa Rica’s sports and culture—a place where some of our most exciting stories unfolded.
In 2008, it gave way to the sleek, modern stadium we know now, but its spirit remains alive in the memories of thousands across the country.
This is what our beloved National Stadium in La Sabana looked like, an image captured more than half a century ago by photographer Arévalo Durán.
Inaugurated in 1941, this iconic venue witnessed countless matches of the National Team, Costa Rican soccer finals, civic events, and unforgettable concerts.
For more than six decades, the National Stadium was the sporting and cultural heart of Costa Rica, a place where many of the most exciting chapters of our history were written.
In 2008, it was demolished to make way for the modern stadium we know today, but its legacy lives on in the memory of thousands of Costa Ricans.
Original photograph: Arévalo Durán; Posted on Facebook by TeleredCR19
Q COSTARICA — No surprise here. Speeding remains the deadliest factor on Costa Rican roads. Between 2022 and September 2025, it has claimed 732 lives: 192 in 2022, 204 in 2023, 175 in 2024, and 161 so far this year, according to official records.
Authorities question whether it is truly worth risking one’s own life or the lives of others to try to gain a few seconds on the road. Although many drivers think more about the fine than the human or legal consequences.
Speeding fines in Costa Rica vary depending on the speed exceeded, and they tend to get steeper the faster you drive over the limit, including points on the driver’s license and even criminal charges for driving over 150 km/h.
Exceeding the limit by more than 20 km/h results in a fine of ¢61,000 with no points; exceeding it by more than 30 km/h results in a fine of ¢123,000 with no points; exceeding it by more than 40 km/h results in a fine of ¢246,000 and 4 points on the driver’s license.
More serious violations, such as driving at more than 120 km/h, result in a fine of ¢364,000 and 6 points.
Reckless driving, which includes driving at more than 150 km/h or under the influence of alcohol, can result in prison sentences, according to the Penal Code.
Paradoxically, those who try to “save time” by driving at high speeds end up investing much more in fines, paperwork, and, in the worst cases, facing legal proceedings for causing injuries or deaths.
The statistics reinforce an undeniable message: speeding remains a constant threat on the country’s roads, with consequences that go far beyond a simple traffic violation.
Strict enforcement
Despite some local tendencies to ignore posted limits, traffic police strictly enforce speed limits and frequently use radar guns.
If you are a tourist driving a rental car, the rental agency will usually handle the fine payment and charge your credit card. They may also add an administration fee. You should inform the rental agency if you receive a ticket.
When stopped by the traffic police, you must present your valid home country’s driver’s license and your passport with a valid entry stamp.
In Costa Rica, you do not need an international driver’s license, but your foreign license is only valid for as long as your tourist visa allows, typically for visitors from North America and Europe have up to 6 months.
Q COSTARICA — (Updated) President Rodrigo Chaves asserted on Wednesday that he is aware of “details” regarding the accusations filed by women alleging rape by the director of the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ). He also stated that he has information about additional complaints that will be filed against the head of the judicial police.
“There are five rape allegations, the most atrocious kind. I don’t want to give details because it is utterly atrocious,” Chaves said at his weekly press conference on Wednesday, where he used the accusations against Zúñiga to further criticize him and the Judiciary.
The allegations were revealed this week and covered by the pro-government television channel Opa in a series of reports that included interviews with the women and broadcast alleged conversations and audio recordings of Randall Zúñiga with the women who now claim to be victims of sexual crimes.
“It seems the count will continue,” Chaves added, demonstrating that he had some information about the case or was lending credence to other accounts. He even added that he was aware of other circumstances: “According to what I’m told, he’s threatening and intimidating them.”
Chaves did not reveal who is informing him about the case or for what reasons, beyond the obvious public interest in the allegations against the head of the judicial police, who also allegedly shared police information from various investigations with these women.
Randall Zúñiga was suspended from his position as director for 15 business days, the Supreme Court of Justice announced this Thursday. The decision aims to give investigators time to gather evidence and potentially extend the suspension with a precautionary measure, the court said in a press release.
Zúñiga said that he was the one who proposed the temporary suspension, that he has evidence to defend himself, and that some images circulating of him are false, according to statements he made public after it was reported that his phone was seized by the Prosecutor’s Office, as a step to advance the investigations.
“I myself even promoted this action so that it could be done, considering that it is the healthiest thing to do so that the process can be given space to continue with the corresponding procedures,” Zúñiga stated, referring to the measure.
The OIJ director stated that he remains calm and confident in his innocence, relying on the principle of presumption of innocence and the objectivity of the judicial system.
“For my part, there’s a saying that’s very true: he who has nothing to hide has nothing to fear. I’m quite calm and I hope that, as a fairly objective and impartial justice system, it will run its course and in the end, it will be proven whether these accusations were true or not,” he said.
Several presidential candidates, Natalia Díaz, Claudia Dobles, Álvaro Ramos, and PUSC and Frente Amplio (FA) legislators are asking for Randall Zúñiga to be permanently removed from the OIJ, given that Zúñiga not only faces criminal charges, but also an administrative investigation by the Judiciary for these events.
Updated: The headline mistakenly named the former director of the OIJ.
Q COSTARICA — The 2026 election campaign officially began on October 1st in Costa Rica, with the call from the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE).
This time there will be 20 candidates for President of the Republic: five fewer than four years ago, but the second-highest number in history, only below the 25 candidacies that were registered for the 2022 elections.
On October 29, the TSE drew lots to determine the order of political parties on the ballots for Costa Rica’s 2026 national elections. Twenty-one national political parties—two of them in coalition—and five provincial parties will participate in this process, vying for seats in the legislature.
The latest poll from the Center for Political Research and Studies at the University of Costa Rica (CIEP-UCR) paints a picture of complete uncertainty. Twenty-five percent of those intending to vote are leaning towards supporting the ruling party’s candidate, Laura Fernández; however, as many as 55% remain undecided.
The 19 opposition candidates, on the other hand, have the combined support of only 17.5%, primarily led by Álvaro Ramos of the Partido Liberación Nacional (7%), Claudia Dobles of the Coalición Agenda Ciudadana (3%), and Ariel Robles of the Frente Amplio (3%).
According to the university center, this scenario makes it impossible to draw any firm conclusions, beyond the fact that any outcome remains possible.
The voting is scheduled for February 1st, and if a second round is necessary to determine the President of the Republic, it would have to be held up to two months later.
The electoral roll comprises 3.7 million people over the age of 18, and the TSE has budgeted an investment of ¢10.217 billion colones for the electoral process.
Part of that money will be allocated to pay for the 3.8 million ballots whose printing was contracted for the presidential and congressional elections.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Ricans can travel to a large number of countries without a visa, including popular destinations in the Americas and Europe.
Countries such as Panama, Mexico, Spain, and Italy stand out, among others in the Americas. For destinations like Cambodia and Egypt, a visa can be obtained upon arrival, and for others, such as Kenya and South Korea, a pre-approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required.
Americas. Virtually all countries on the continent are included. Panama, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, and many Central American countries. Some Caribbean islands and territories, such as Bermuda, Curaçao, and Aruba, are also on the list.
Europe. The Costa Rican passport grants access to the entire European Union and the Schengen Area, as well as other European countries such as the United Kingdom.
Asia and the Middle East. Countries such as Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates can be visited without a visa.
Africa. Destinations such as Botswana are also accessible to Costa Ricans without a visa.
Additional Travel Considerations:
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Some countries that do not require a traditional visa, such as Kenya and South Korea, require you to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling, which is done online.
Visa on Arrival: There are 30 countries where you can obtain a visa directly upon arrival, such as Bangladesh, Burundi, and Egypt.
E-Visa: Certain countries, such as Armenia and Cuba, require you to obtain an e-Visa or electronic visa digitally, which is a different process from a traditional visa.
Countries with Traditional Visas: Approximately 80 destinations still require a traditional visa, such as the United States and Australia.
The following are the 7 Most Popular Visa-Free Destinations for Costa Ricans
Panama, a nearby and accessible destination, is where Ticos can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. It’s ideal for quick getaways thanks to its air connectivity and diverse attractions.
Mexico. With a permitted stay of up to 180 days, the destination stands out for its cultural and natural richness.
Colombia offers a combination of history, nature, and urban life. Costa Rican citizens can stay in Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa.
Spain. Costa Ricans can stay in Spain and other Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days without a visa.
Chile allows visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
Argentina, for up to 90 days without a visa, and explore.
Italy. As part of the Schengen Area, Italy allows Costa Ricans to stay for up to 90 days.
RICO’s Q – From Johnny Schmidt C: “We see striking similarities between the two countries today and what happened in the southern nation in 1999. Of course, both came to power democratically with the support of the electorate, but once in power, the story was almost identical: constant attacks on other branches of government, oversight institutions, the media, and the electoral body.
But what was the purpose of all this in Venezuela? Simply put, to lay the groundwork for what would come next: a new constitution that would allow him to seize complete power for the following decades, as indeed happened.
Chávez poisoned the Venezuelan people, blaming everything bad on those who came before, like Caldera, Pérez, Campins, Lusinchi, and Velásquez, who, along with the media and the rhetoric against all institutions, allowed a dictatorship to be established that has now lasted 25 years without the people being able to reverse the worst decision they ever made.
The Venezuelan Chávez dies and they put Maduro in power, and here (in Costa Rica) Chaves intends to temporarily impose his immaturity on us so he can return later. I’m not making this up; it’s been said repeatedly. And to be able to modify the constitution, they need 40 legislators.
Of course, we should all be worried and scared about what’s happening… because, I repeat, everything we’ve seen in these three and a half years is a carbon copy of what Venezuelans already experienced in the first years of the Chávez-Maduro dictatorship.
Laura Fernández is not a leader, she is a liar and a fraud, but for the Chaves-Cisneros plan she is ideal because they can manipulate her at will to complete their plan and seize power from all spheres, eliminating checks and balances, oversight institutions, the media, and eliminating the opposition.
Conscious Costa Rican:
I cannot believe that some of you want this for Costa Rica, and although I understand your enormous annoyance and animosity towards Arias, Calderón, Chinchilla, Solís, and Alvarado, and towards the press and institutions, this is because you have been injected with too much poison every Wednesday, and you have been made to believe that you could have something much better, that everything bad is their fault, the fault of their parties, the press, the institutions, and you have failed to see that they are leading us straight to something very bad from which it would take us many years to recover.
Every four years we have the opportunity to go to the polls to correct our course or to make big mistakes that we could always correct in the next election, but at this crucial moment in our nation’s history, we are being led into a dead end… We made mistakes in 2014 and 2018, we made mistakes again in 2022, but the worst mistakes and errors could happen in 2026 if we do not stop the attempt to lead us directly to a dictatorship.
This article is a translation and adaptation of a post by Johnny Schmidt C on Facebook. The views expressed are those of the author alone and do not represent QCostarica.com or TheQMedia.com.
Q COSTARICA — Pfizer, one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical firms, announced it will relocate a portion of its Costa Rican operations to Colombia, focusing on its Corporate Center for Central America and the Caribbean.
The Global Business Services Center and sales teams will remain in Costa Rica. The U.S. firm indicated that this move is part of a “strategic transformation of our operations in Latin America.”
“This will allow us to improve our ability to offer innovative healthcare solutions and focus on areas where we can generate greater benefits for Latin American patients,” the company stated.
Pfizer’s New Structures in the Region
In light of this move, Pfizer will create two new cluster structures: North Latin America (including Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and the countries of Central America and the Caribbean), headquartered in Colombia.
The other will be South Latin America (covering Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, Peru, and Bolivia), based in Buenos Aires. These new clusters will take effect on December 1, 2025.
“While this change is a proactive response to an evolving business environment, our commitment to both Central America and the Caribbean, as well as to Costa Rica, remains unchanged,” the company stated.
Pfizer’s History in Costa Rica and Current Global Situation
Pfizer began operations in Costa Rica in 1950 and established its Corporate Center for Central America and the Caribbean headquarters here in 2008. From this location, it still oversees operations in 33 territories.
In 2013, it created its Global Business Services (GBS) division in Costa Rica, which offers support in finance, human resources, digital technologies, logistics planning, pharmacovigilance, and more.
The recently opened operations center, inaugurated in 2022 in Escazú Village, is the first in Latin America designed with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
This facility houses professionals from diverse areas who support Pfizer’s global operations.
Since reaching their peak during the pandemic, Pfizer’s stock has lost more than half its value. This reflects the drop in revenue from its COVID-19-related products and the upcoming expiration of patents for key medications.
In response, the company launched an ambitious cost-cutting program.
Pfizer projects achieving net savings of US$7.2 billion by the end of 2027, of which US$4.5 billion would be achieved before 2025.
Other departures from Costa Rica
Two other companies, Intel and Qorvo, both dedicated to the semiconductor sector, announced some time ago that they were withdrawing their operations from Costa Rica, either partially or completely.
Intel, in a statement issued by the company in July, indicated that it would gradually close its Assembly and Testing (ATM) plant located in Belén, Heredia. These operations will be transferred to Malaysia and Vietnam over the next few months.
Intel reported that this decision follows a thorough review of the business. It also stated that the changes aim to drive greater efficiency and utilization of its global manufacturing network.
In the case of Qorvo, after 29 years of operating in Costa Rica, it ended its operations in the country, as confirmed by the Foreign Trade Promoter (Procomer).
“The decision to cease Qorvo’s operations in Costa Rica was made at the beginning of this year and was part of a global corporate strategy focused on closer ties with its main markets and suppliers in Asia,” Procomer said at the time.
Q COSTARICA — It’s a statistic that stops you in your tracks: in Costa Rica, more cars are registered each year than babies born. For a country famous for its lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and “Pura Vida” way of life, this unexpected fact paints a curious picture of its shifting priorities and evolving landscape.
Costa Rica’s birth rate has been steadily declining for decades. Families are choosing to have fewer children, influenced by urbanization, increased access to education, and improved healthcare.
In the 1970s, the average woman bore more than four children, but today that figure hovers just above 1.7 — below the population replacement level. This demographic transition is driven by multiple factors: increased urbanization, widespread access to education, especially for women, greater economic opportunities, and comprehensive healthcare programs that have reduced infant mortality rates; families simply don’t feel the need to have large numbers of children anymore.
More and more women in Costa Rica prefer not to have children, or if they do, it is at an older age.
Social attitudes have also evolved — aspirations are shifting toward quality of life and personal fulfillment over large families traditionally seen as economic or social support networks.
Meanwhile, the surge in car ownership is striking. Over 150,000 new vehicles—mostly private cars and small SUVs—are registered annually, outpacing the approximately 120,000 babies born each year.
Rising incomes from sectors like tourism, technology, and agriculture have empowered many Costa Ricans to buy personal vehicles. The nation’s roads and highways have expanded, but they struggle to keep pace with the exponential growth in cars. With limited investment and efficiency concerns around public transit, especially in rural or mountainous regions, cars have become synonymous with freedom and modern convenience.
What’s behind the surge in cars? For one, economic growth has put new purchasing power in the hands of many Costa Ricans.
Owning a car no longer feels like a luxury; it’s becoming part of daily life. While public transportation does exist, its limits make personal vehicles more attractive, especially in a country where mountainous terrain can make travel tricky.
But this trend comes at a cost. The roads swell with traffic, and the country faces rising pollution levels that challenge its green reputation.
This rapid motorization, however, complicates Costa Rica’s reputation as an eco-paradise. The country is lauded worldwide for its pioneering environmental policies — it runs on over 98% renewable electricity, has ambitious plans to become carbon neutral, and protects roughly a quarter of its landmass in national parks and reserves. Yet, the rise in vehicles contributes to growing air pollution and congestion in urban centers like San José, jeopardizing air quality and carbon reduction goals.
The government faces a tough balancing act: fostering economic development and individual mobility without sacrificing environmental stewardship.
Regional disparities also illustrate a nuanced picture. Urban areas see the highest concentration of new cars and the sharpest drops in birthrate, while rural communities maintain larger families but have less vehicle access. Migration from countryside to cities accelerates these trends, reshaping social dynamics and infrastructure needs.
Behind the numbers lies a broader story about how Costa Rica is navigating the crossroads of tradition and modernity. The decline in birthrate reflects not just demographic shifts but deep cultural and economic evolution. Families are smaller, more urban-centric, and focused on education and careers. Meanwhile, cars symbolize rising aspirations, the pull of convenience, and the complex costs of modernization.
So, Costa Rica’s unusual statistic of more cars than babies each year isn’t just a quirky headline — it’s a mirror reflecting a society in transition, striving to reconcile its commitment to nature with the realities of twenty-first century growth.
The roaring engines may now accompany the lullabies of childhood, but they also signal new challenges and choices for this beautiful country’s future.
Immigrating to the United States can be an exciting but complicated journey. Whether you’re seeking new job opportunities, reuniting with family, or pursuing education and a better quality of life, the U.S. immigration system requires patience, preparation, and precision. With multiple visa categories, lengthy timelines, and detailed documentation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Understanding the process, and the role of experienced legal guidance, can make the difference between a smooth path to approval and months of unnecessary delay or rejection.
The Basics of U.S. Immigration
The U.S. immigration system is built around several key categories, each serving different purposes. The two main types of immigration status are nonimmigrant and immigrant visas. Nonimmigrant visas are temporary and allow individuals to enter the country for a specific purpose, such as tourism, study, temporary work, or medical treatment. Immigrant visas are for those seeking permanent residence, commonly known as a green card.
Applicants must choose the right category for their goals and meet the eligibility requirements associated with that visa type. Mistakes in selecting or completing the correct application can cause months of delay or even disqualification.
Common Immigration Pathways
Each applicant’s journey looks different depending on their reason for coming to the United States. Some of the most common paths include:
Family-based immigration. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can petition for certain relatives to immigrate.
Employment-based immigration. Workers with specialized skills, job offers, or extraordinary ability may qualify through employer sponsorship.
Humanitarian relief. Refugees, asylum seekers, and certain crime victims may seek protection under humanitarian programs.
Diversity Visa Lottery. Applicants from underrepresented countries can enter a yearly lottery for permanent residency.
Student and exchange programs. Educational visas, such as the F-1 or J-1, allow individuals to study or train temporarily in the U.S.
Each of these categories has its own requirements, documentation, and approval process, so it pays to seek expert counseling.
The Role of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the primary agency responsible for processing most immigration applications. It handles petitions for visas, green cards, naturalization, and various permits.
Applications to USCIS often require a combination of forms, supporting evidence, and filing fees. The agency may also request additional documentation or schedule interviews. Because USCIS backlogs can delay processing times for months or even years, accuracy and completeness on the first submission are essential. Even small mistakes can lead to costly delays or outright denials.
Key Steps in the Immigration Process
While each case varies, most immigration processes involve several core steps.
Determine eligibility. Identify the correct visa or immigration category and verify that you meet all requirements.
File a petition or application. In family- and employment-based cases, a U.S. citizen, resident, or employer usually initiates the petition.
Submit supporting documentation. This may include financial records, identification, relationship evidence, or employment contracts.
Attend biometrics and interviews. Applicants may need to provide fingerprints, photographs, and attend in-person interviews at a consulate or USCIS office.
Wait for a decision. Processing times vary significantly depending on case type and location.
Receive approval and complete entry or adjustment of status. Successful applicants receive a visa, green card, or approval notice allowing them to live or work in the U.S. legally.
Because immigration is a federal system, the rules apply nationwide, but local offices and consulates sometimes interpret regulations differently, which is another reason to seek professional guidance.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
One of the biggest misconceptions about U.S. immigration is that forms alone determine success; you also need sufficient evidence. Every claim made in an application must be backed by evidence that meets strict legal standards.
Common mistakes include submitting incomplete documentation, missing deadlines, or misunderstanding eligibility criteria. For example, a person applying for a green card through marriage must demonstrate the relationship’s authenticity with photographs, joint financial records, and correspondence. Weak or inconsistent evidence can raise red flags.
Similarly, failing to update USCIS about address changes or missing an interview notice can cause an application to be deemed abandoned. Careful record-keeping and communication can prevent these pitfalls.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Immigration law is one of the most technical and fast-changing areas of the U.S. legal system. Even small differences in interpretation can alter an applicant’s future. A knowledgeable immigration attorney helps ensure compliance, prevents errors, and can intervene if an application is delayed, denied, or referred for additional review.
Lawyers also represent clients in immigration court, during appeals, and before federal agencies. In more complex cases, experienced representation is critical. Having an attorney doesn’t just increase your chances of success (though it does do that); it can provide peace of mind throughout an often stressful process.
Immigrating Successfully
The U.S. immigration process is challenging, but it’s also achievable with the right preparation and support. Understanding each step, including choosing the correct visa, filing accurately, responding to government requests, and maintaining status, sets the foundation for success.
RICO’s Q — Over the last ten days, the Policia de Transito, the national traffic police, have been conducting sweeps along Avenida 2 of the Ruta 121 or the “old road to Escazú” in Santa Ana’s central district.
They’ve been targeting parked cars, sometimes on both sides of the one-way street.
Street parking in Costa Rica can be a mixed bag, depending on where you are. In bigger cities like San José, it’s pretty common to find street parking, but don’t expect it to be easy or free. Most street parking spots are paid zones, especially in commercial areas. You’ll usually see parking meters.
In Santa Ana, there are no such meters, and street parking is totally free. You can park basically anywhere outside the marked ‘yellow zones’ or official “No Estacionar” signs—those mean no parking.
If you leave your car illegally parked, the fine is ¢61,000 colones, and confiscation of license plates and/or towing by the Policia de Transito is a real risk.
In short, street parking in Costa Rica is doable but comes with some local quirks—pay attention to signs, keep change handy (in cities like San José, parking meters are operated via an app), and always park responsibly to save yourself from fines or towing.
When it comes to national roads, that’s where it gets interesting. Though the local municipality enforces parking, its authority is on town roads and not national roads like the Ruta 121.
For that, we have to refer to the Ley de Transito (Traffic Law), which sets out that parking is generally not permitted on Costa Rica’s national roads unless specifically posted and the vehicle does not obstruct traffic. The law prohibits parking in places such as sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, near intersections, or where posted signs prohibit it. Parking in front of fire hydrants, schools, hospitals, or garages is also prohibited, among others.
And that is where the confusion lies.
In towns like Santa Ana that have a national road, that, other than its designation as a national road, looks and feels like any other road in the town, with potholes and all. But for the parking rule.
Last week, in the afternoon hours, typically after 3:00 pm, the Policia de Transito has been out (except when it is raining) in full force, informing, at times bullying, drivers parked illegally, who, like myself, didn’t think they were parking illegally.
In my case, I will normally park my vehicle in front of my pizza store. Have been doing this for some time. And never a problem. Until Wednesday, when I heard the distinct sound of a police vehicle and noticed a Transito officer behind my panel van. After a brief conversation with one of the two traffic officials, I was told to move my vehicle (to a side street) or risk having my license plate confiscated. Their warning was clear and left no room for misunderstanding.
My illegally parked vehicle
My neighbours also moved their vehicles or face the same sanction.
Naturally, the Mayor of Santa Ana, Juan José Vargas, is taking the heat from drivers and commerce, although it not being his doing. Vargas recently addressed in a video on his Facebook profile the comments circulating on social media about the operations and fines issued by the Traffic Police.
Vargas dismissed the posts linking him to these actions as “lies” and asserted that he has no connection with the operations, which, he stated, fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT)—Ministry of Public Works and Transportation—as they involve a national road.
Furthermore, the Mayor attributed the criticism on social media to people who no longer work for the municipality and who, he said, were acting out of resentment.
While researching for this article, I found some other interesting (silly, in my opinion) rules of street parking in Costa Rica:
Every parked vehicle must keep the emergency brake on.
In urban areas, the vehicle’s tires must be kept no more than 30 centimeters from the curb.
Cargo vehicles weighing more than two tons must be wedged with the required wheel chocks.
Q COSTARICA — The Ministerio Publico (Public Prosecutor’s Office) confirmed that it is processing a criminal case against the director of the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) —Judicial Investigation Agency—, Randall Zúñiga, following a complaint filed on Friday, October 24, by a woman in the southern zone.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office reports that the incident happened in January 2025, in the Corredores area.
According to the official statement, the case is under file number 25-000359-1883-PE and is being handled by the Gender Unit of the Corredores Deputy Prosecutor’s Office.
The investigation is being conducted in coordination with the OIJ’s Specialized Section on Gender Violence, which has already carried out a series of procedures requested by the Prosecutor’s Office to gather evidence.
“At the request of the Prosecutor’s Office, this section has already carried out the necessary investigative procedures to gather relevant evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case, while additional investigations and forensic work are ongoing,” the Public Prosecutor’s Office reported.
The statement adds that, from the beginning, the victim has received interdisciplinary support from the Office for the Assistance and Protection of Victims of Crime, including a risk assessment and psychological support, in accordance with the protocols established by Law 8720 for the protection of victims of sexual crimes and gender-based violence.
Without special jurisdiction
The Public Prosecutor’s Office emphasized that Zúñiga does not enjoy any special protection or immunity due to his position within the Judiciary, so the investigation is being conducted under the ordinary procedure, with prosecutorial personnel specialized in gender matters.
The Prosecutor’s Office also emphasized that it works independently and objectively, and that its priority is to secure the necessary evidence to establish the “real truth” of the reported events.
Reaction from the Director
Shortly before the Prosecutor’s Office’s statement, Randall Zúñiga issued a public statement in which he categorically denied the accusations and confirmed that he will withdraw from any involvement or contact with the internal investigation.
“I categorically reject this statement. There is already an open investigation by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and, under the principle of transparency, I will withdraw from any involvement or connection with this case,” Zúñiga stated.
Zúñiga said he stepped back from the case to keep things consistent institutionally, given that the OIJ, under his leadership, might play a supporting role in the investigation.
“Under the principle of transparency, I will withdraw from any involvement or connection with this investigation,” he stated.
Zúñiga also called for respect for the principle of the presumption of innocence, emphasizing that no person can be considered guilty without a final judicial process.
“There is a principle of the presumption of innocence, according to which no person, even if a complaint is filed against them, is guilty beforehand. Under this principle, I will await the results of the Public Prosecutor’s Office in order to exercise all necessary defenses on my behalf,” he stated.
Profile of a leader under public scrutiny
Zúñiga, 49, was ratified by the Full Court as director of the OIJ in August 2023, after serving for months as deputy director and interim director. His tenure has been characterized by an active presence in police operations and clashes with the Executive Branch, especially with President Rodrigo Chaves, due to budget cuts to the Judiciary.
On several occasions, Zúñiga has defended the institution’s independence and its right to sufficient resources for criminal investigations. In 2025, he responded directly to criticism from President Chaves, stating that the OIJ “does not work to the tune or rhythm of the politicians in power.”
The Public Ministry reiterated that the case remains under preliminary investigation, a stage in which additional investigations and forensic examinations are carried out to determine whether there are grounds for a possible charge.
Q COSTARICA — President Rodrigo Chaves said it. Legislator Pilar Cisneros has repeated it. And presidential candidate Laura Fernández has also mentioned it on several occasions.
The Chavismo, a political movement or stance in Costa Rica that aligns itself with the ideas of President Rodrigo Chaves, in addition to maintaining its government, is aiming to win 40 or more legislative seats in the 2026 elections.
Why do they want them?
The Costa Rican Legislative Assembly requires 38 (of the 57) votes—a clear majority—to pass significant reforms.
Pilar Cisneros, leader of the ruling party and an active member of presidential candidate Laura Fernández’s communications team, highlighted several key goals they aim to accomplish with the new majority of legislators for the 2026-2030 term.
“40 legislators is our dream; we don’t really know how many we’ll get. The more the better, it seems to me, because what we are convinced of is that this country needs major reforms and transformations, and all these major reforms and transformations require 38 representatives, so the more we have, the easier it will be,” she noted.
These reforms and transformations are intended to be made to the Supreme Court of Justice, the Comptroller General’s Office, and also to the Political Constitution.
“To name a few, we want to make changes to the Administrative Contracting Law, changes to the FEES, for example. I mean, it’s not that we want to stop giving money to universities, never, but to establish clear rules of the game about what they have to comply with, the accounts they have to provide, because now they don’t provide any accounts for anything; how it should be distributed, for example,” the legislator stated about some of the reforms.
Court and Comptroller’s Office
At the Supreme Court of Justice, some of the most important reforms Cisneros points out they would seek in the next four-year term include removing the Constitutional Court or Sala IV, as it is popularly known, the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) —Judicial Investigation Agency—, and the Attorney General’s Office.
“Make them independent so they are not part of the Court. All of this requires 38 votes,” she responded.
This also applies to the election of magistrates, who serve for eight years and can be reappointed, if the Assembly supports them, for consecutive terms.
According to Cisneros, the maximum term magistrates should serve is 16 years; that is, only one reelection. However, candidate Laura Fernández proposes in her government plan a maximum term of 10 years.
“We need new blood, new people, people with a different mindset,” Cisneros stated.
Candidate Fernández also mentioned all of these issues during the presentation of her government plan.
Of the 22 current Full Court justices, 13 will expire between 2026 and 2030.
Cisneros mentioned the same change for the Comptroller General’s Office, where Marta Acosta has held the position since 2012 and was reelected in 2020. Her term will end in 2028.
“Why is the comptroller general going to stay for 30 years, 40 years in one position? I think that’s not healthy,” the legislator stated.
“So yes, indeed, we would implement, let’s say, drastic reforms,” she warned.
Introduce trusted people?
Replace the magistrates, the comptroller, and others whose terms are ending and appoint trusted people. That seems to be the mission Chavismo wants, and that’s why they require more than 38 legislators, because that way they wouldn’t need political negotiation and agreements with other political groups.
However, for Cisneros, it’s not a matter of appointing trusted people from Chavismo, but rather changing the mindset of the people who assume the positions.
“I’m not saying people the government trusts; I’m saying people committed to the country,” she responded, immediately affirming that for a long time, the two-party system governed this country and placed its own people in key positions.
“What was the problem when the two-party system, Liberación (PLN) and Unidad (PUSC), held 80% to 90% of all representatives for 50 years?” she asked.
“There was no problem then, neither for democracy, nor for the country, nor for anything. They did what they wanted, they molded this country in their image and likeness, and no one stopped to say, ‘Look, they’ve had 40, 45, 50 years of absolute dominance in the Legislative Assembly.’”
Cisneros also expanded on the reforms Chavismo wants for the country and why Chavismo needs an absolute majority in Congress: changing the referendum law is one of their objectives.
There’s also the possibility of consecutive presidential reelection, reiterating that they don’t want it indefinitely, but they do want a president to be able to serve two consecutive terms.
“If you have a good president, who has done a good job, why are you going to send him home?” the representative concluded.
Costa Rica has a unique stance when it comes to presidential re-election. The President of Costa Rica and the vice presidents are elected for a four-year term by the people. From 1969 to 2005, the president was barred from seeking reelection.
After the amendment banning reelection was overturned by the Supreme Court in 2005, an incumbent president became eligible to run again after waiting for at least eight years after leaving office.
Basically, it reflects the country’s history and the hard-earned lessons from past political battles in the region, to safeguard its democratic roots.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN), warned that the indirect effects of Hurricane Melissa will continue to affect Costa Rica at least until Tuesday.
According to the weather advisory, the regions most affected are in the South and Central Pacific.
“The indirect effects of the hurricane remain present in the South Pacific, with heavy downpours and rain beginning this morning and into the morning,” the IMN reported.
“Heavy downpours and continuous rain are reported on the Osa Peninsula, with accumulated rainfall of 10 to 50 millimeters in the last six hours, and maximums of up to 90 millimeters in Puerto Jiménez,” it stated.
Rainfall by region
According to expert forecasters, variable cloudiness and intense downpours are expected over the next few days, especially in the early mornings and early mornings on the South Pacific coasts.
“Variable-intensity rains are forecast for this Sunday over most of the South Pacific, with the heaviest accumulations on the coasts and lowlands of that region,” the Institute stated.
There are also showers with thunderstorms in the mountainous Central Pacific and isolated ones on the coasts.
“Accumulated rainfall over the 12- to 24-hour period is expected to range from 40 to 70 mm, with maximums of 90 to 150 mm, due to the increase in rainfall since early Monday, specifically in the coastal South Pacific,” the IMN stated.
While for the Northern Zone, there will be short-lived, heavy rains in the morning, with isolated showers in the afternoon.
For the Caribbean regions, isolated heavy showers with thunderstorms are expected in the afternoon and evening. Accumulated rainfall is expected between 15 and 40 mm, with maximums of 70 mm.
Regarding the Central Valley, rain is expected, with scattered showers and thunderstorms, as well as the possibility of fog banks at night and early morning.
The North Pacific region will experience this type of precipitation in the southeast of the region. Accumulated rainfall is between 20 and 40 mm, with a maximum of 65 mm.
The IMN also warns that soils in the South Pacific are already saturated, increasing the risk of flooding and landslides, especially in low-lying areas and prone areas such as the Osa Peninsula.
“Special caution is recommended in these areas prone to recurring precipitation events during these days,” the agency warned.
Also recommended:
Caution in areas prone to flooding, due to the possible saturation of streams or sewage systems due to water accumulation.
Prevention in the event of a thunderstorm.
If strong gusts develop or are perceived near storm clouds, it is recommended to seek shelter in a safe location, as tree branches and power lines could fall. These gusts can reach up to 80 km/h (50 mph) in isolated cases.
Hurricane Melissa Category 4
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Melissa is currently a Category 4 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 220 km/h (140 mph) and a slow westward movement of 6 km/h (3.7 mph).
The system is located approximately 180 kilometers south of Kingston, Jamaica, and continues to strengthen in the central Caribbean.
Although Costa Rica is not directly affected by the cyclone, its proximity keeps the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITC) very active over the country, which is generating atmospheric instability and persistent rain.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s rainy season hits hard and fast, and it seriously changes the driving game. October is by far the toughest month of the rainy season.
This year’s rainy season has been particularly intense.
Because of this, experts are urging all drivers—locals and visitors alike, especially tourists unfamiliar with Costa Rica’s intense rains—to exercise extra caution to keep themselves and others safe while driving.
“If we encounter heavy rain and the road has a lot of accumulated water, it is best to slow down, because the reduction in tire grip on the asphalt can lead to loss of steering control. It is better to avoid continuing on this route and find alternative routes or a safe place to wait for the water level to recede,” said Hugo Martínez, Regional Manager of Autopits.
Although vehicles are designed to operate in the rain, Martínez explained that immersion in deep puddles can affect the electrical system, the vehicle’s computer, the battery, the engine, the combustion cylinders, and even the upholstery, depending on the magnitude of the incident.
Costa Rica’s puddles are more than just simple puddles left behind by rain
In Costa Rica, the rainy season shows off a quirky side of its roads — the puddles. These aren’t your ordinary splashes; they can be deep, sudden, and tricky enough to give drivers a real challenge. For locals and visitors alike, puddles are less about a quick splash and more about testing your driving skills and patience.
Puddles hide potholes and uneven surfaces, tempting drivers to slow down or swerve — neither of which guarantees safety. Sometimes, the puddles are so large, they blur the edges of the road, making it hard to stay on track without drifting into traffic or soft shoulders.
For many drivers, it’s a game of cautious guesswork. Step in too fast, and you risk hydroplaning or damaging your car. Brake too hard, and you might lose control. Locals often learn the art of reading the road — knowing which puddles to skirt and which to face head-on.
Visitors, ie, tourists, on the other hand, might feel caught off guard.
Preventive Maintenance
During the rainy season, preventive maintenance becomes a key practice to ensure the proper functioning of vehicles.
The main aspects to check are:
Tires: Check that they are in good condition and have the proper pressure. Worn tires reduce grip on the road and prevent proper water drainage.
Brakes: Excessive wear or use can compromise braking performance and cause accidents. Unusual noises are a sign that you need to visit a specialized center.
Lights: It is vital that all lights work properly to communicate maneuvers and ensure visibility in low-light conditions or heavy rain.
Interior and exterior visibility: Keep the wiper blades in good condition, fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir, and ensure the air conditioning is working properly to defog the windows when necessary.
“Prevention makes the difference. That’s why we recommend drivers inspect their vehicles regularly and have them serviced by expert technicians. Additionally, be aware that in winter, driving requires greater caution and attention to everything that’s happening around us,” concluded Martínez.
Life moves a bit slower here in October
While the sunlight hides behind thick clouds, it’s never gone for long. Breaks in the rain create fleeting moments of golden light that dance on wet leaves and shimmering rivers.
In Costa Rica’s rainy season, the world feels alive in a different way — a little quieter, a little wetter, and endlessly full of promise.
Weather forecast for today, Monday, October 27, 2025:
The first few days of the week begin with the indirect effects of Hurricane Melissa, which will continue to generate variable rainfall throughout the day in the South Pacific. It will also adjust the position and increase the activity of the Intertropical Convergence Zone over Costa Rica.
This atmospheric configuration will favor a humid and unstable environment, conducive to precipitation. In the morning, showers are again expected over the Osa Peninsula, the Central Pacific coast, and points near the Nicoya Peninsula.
Scattered showers and downpours are expected in the afternoon, extending to the mountains of the rest of the Pacific coast.
In addition, rain with possible isolated showers and thunderstorms are expected in the Central Valley, the mountains of the Northern Zone, and the western Caribbean.
Get the official weather forecast and information from Costa Rica’s national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional de Costa Rica (IMN), here.
