- +65 6950 5911
- connect@packersandshippers.com
Country Guide
Country Guide Of Costa Rica
A country guide for used household goods and personal effects provides essential information on moving personal belongings internationally. It covers import regulations, customs procedures, and any required documentation to ensure a smooth relocation process. This guide is invaluable for understanding country-specific allowances, taxes, prohibited items, and any necessary paperwork, helping individuals plan and execute a hassle-free move.
Documents Required
1. Copy of passport
2. Rated original bill of lading (OBL) / airway bill (AWB)
3. Packing list in English or Spanish
Specific Information
1. Customs clearance takes approximately 10 business days from the date of shipment arrival.
2. The items and weights identified on the OBL must match the actual items in the shipment or a fine of 250 USD will be levied and clearance will be delayed.
3. All shipments are subject to physical inspection.
4. Diplomat shipments are duty free.
5. Returning citizens may receive a partial tax exemption if having lived abroad for at least 24 months preceding import; proof from the Costa Rican consulate in the origin country is required and must indicate the number of years of residence lived abroad.
6.Lift Vans, Air Vans, wooden crates, and boxes arriving in containers or single shipments must be fumigated per ISPM-15 guidelines and visibly marked on at least two opposite sides of the container in permanent black ink.
7.Certain wood packing materials are exempt from ISPM-15 regulations; contact the destination agent for specific information.
Documents Required
1.Original title
2.Original purchase invoice
3.OBL
Specific Information
1.Duties range from 45% to 70% of the retail value of a vehicle.
2.The import of motor vehicles is not recommended as duties may exceed the value of the vehicle.
3.Contact the destination for additional information.
Documents Required
1.Rabies vaccination record
2.Veterinary health certificate (2 copies)
3.International certificate (APHIS Form 7001) is recommended
4.Authorization from the Costa Rican Health Ministry obtained at origin from the Consulate / Embassy
Specific Information
1.Documents must be received by the destination agent prior to the arrival of the animal and are subject to examination upon arrival.
2.Animals over 3 months of age must be vaccinated against rabies.
3.Quarantine is not currently required unless the pet is deemed unhealthy upon examination then the pet may be kenneled in a government facility.
The following items are subject to taxes:
1.Arms and ammunition (a permit from the Ministry of National Security is required for returning citizens or residents)
2.Dangerous objects (a permit from the Ministry of National Security is required for returning citizens and residents)
3.Plants (a phytosanitary certificate and permit from the Ministry of Agriculture are required prior to import)
4.New household goods / new furniture (an original invoice or a statement under oath of the value of the item is required)
5.Household / electrical appliances (the brand, serial number, and model must be listed on the packing list)
6.Wedding trousseaux, inheritances, gifts and souvenirs
7.Carpets
9.Antiques and works of art
10.Furniture (wooden items / ornaments require a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture)
11.Precious metal objects, such as jewelry, coins, etc. (purchase receipts / invoicesare required)
12.Non-motorized vehicles, such as bicycles, watercraft, etc. (duties depend on value, year, model, cubic centimeters, and features)
13.Wine and alcohol (permits from the Ministry of Health /Ministry of Economy are required)
14.Tins and food (a permit from the Ministry of Health are required) (3 copies)
1.Narcotics, drugs and medicines (permits from the College of Pharmacy and Ministry of Health are required)
2.Pornographic and subversive materials
3.Explosives
4.Consignment Instructions
Recommended: Contact the destination agent to ensure
Recommended: Contact the destination agent to ensure all requirements have been met prior to import, especially for differences regarding air / sea shipments.