RICO’s Q — We’re on the verge of the elections! As Costa Rica heads to the polls, the moment has caught the attention of the sizable community of foreigners living in the country.
Among these expats, Americans and Canadians form a significant portion, and their views on the upcoming elections reveal a mix of hope, concern, and curiosity.
For many North Americans who have chosen Costa Rica as their home away from home, the elections offer a window into the country’s evolving political landscape. Many expats feel a personal stake in the outcome, even if they don’t have voting rights.
The general sentiment among these foreign residents is one of cautious optimism mixed with skepticism. On one hand, there’s admiration for Costa Rica’s long-standing democratic tradition and its commitment to stability in a region often marked by political turbulence. On the other, there’s awareness of the challenges ahead: economic pressures, environmental concerns, and the need for social reforms.
Some expats express frustration with the sometimes slow pace of political progress. In the U.S., politics can be messy, but things move fast. Here, it feels like change happens in slow motion.
Social issues also resonate deeply with the expat community. Many are involved in local volunteer work or small businesses that rely on a healthy, educated population.
Interestingly, the 2026 elections have sparked conversations among expats about their own roles as residents. Some discuss the possibility of deeper civic engagement, while others remain observers, respecting the fact that they are guests in a foreign land.
As Costa Rica heads to the polls, the eyes of its American and Canadian residents are watching with a blend of personal interest and respectful distance. Their perspectives add an extra layer to the electoral story, one that speaks to the country’s growing global ties and the shared hopes of all who call Costa Rica home.
Here are the key details about the electoral process in Costa Rica so you don’t miss anything:
Dates and Key Facts
- Voting: The election will be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
- What we’re voting for: Voters will elect the President, two Vice Presidents, and the 57 members of the Legislative Assembly for the 2026-2030 term.
- Runoff: If no presidential candidate reaches 40% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on Sunday, April 5, 2026, between the two candidates with the most votes.
- Voter Registration: More than 3.7 million people are eligible to vote, including a significant increase in voters abroad.
Read more: 2026 Elections: Employers must grant employees permission to vote
Candidates and Ballot
- Participants: There are a total of 25 political parties competing: 20 with national reach and 5 at the provincial level.
- Presidential Candidates: You can consult the complete list and their government programs on the official website of the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE).
Useful Information
- Voting Abroad: Costa Ricans outside the country can also vote at consulates authorized by the TSE.
- Polling Place: Voters are assigned their voting station based on their residency information registered with the TSE. Voting takes place in local schools
- Debates and Presentations: Official candidate presentations have been taking place this month so that voters can learn about the proposals before going to the polls.
End of political campaigning
During the days leading up to February 1, the country enters a period of reflection where only informational activities such as debates, interviews, and opinion programs are permitted, but not paid advertising or campaign events in public spaces.
Sunday, January 25, 2026, was the last day permitted for political groups to hold mass events or meetings in public squares.
On Thursday, January 29, 2026 (inclusive), is the closure of propaganda and polls, when a total ban on politicking comes into effect. The ban includes prohibiting the dissemination of political propaganda in the media and the publication of polls or opinion surveys.
No consecutive re-election
Remember that neither the current president nor the current members of the legislature can be re-elected consecutively.