Costa Rica Investment Boom: Top Opportunities & Secrets for 2025–2030 Revealed

Table of Contents

• Executive Summary: Why Costa Rica for 2025–2030?
• Macroeconomic Overview and Growth Drivers
• Top Investment Sectors: Real Estate, Tourism, Tech, and More
• Foreign Investment Laws and Entry Requirements
• Taxation and Incentives for Investors
• Regulatory Compliance and Risk Factors
• Key Statistics: FDI, GDP Growth, and Market Performance
• Legal Considerations: Property Rights, Residency, and Business Formation
• Government Initiatives and Sustainable Investment Policies
• Future Outlook: Trends, Opportunities, and Expert Predictions
• Sources & References

Executive Summary: Why Costa Rica for 2025–2030?

Costa Rica is increasingly recognized as a premier destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Central America, driven by its political stability, robust legal infrastructure, and a strategic focus on sustainable growth. For the period 2025–2030, several key factors highlight Costa Rica’s appeal to international investors.

• Stable Investment Environment: Costa Rica maintains one of the region’s most stable democracies, with a transparent legal framework that protects property rights and foreign capital. Its government actively promotes investment through the “Law for the Promotion of Foreign Investments” (Law No. 7210), which guarantees equal treatment for foreign and domestic investors and provides mechanisms for dispute resolution via international arbitration (PROCOMER).
• Free Trade and Special Regimes: The country’s Foreign Trade Regime, particularly the Free Trade Zone Regime (Regimen de Zona Franca), offers significant incentives such as tax exemptions on income, imports, and exports for qualifying businesses. In 2023, the Free Trade Zone Regime accounted for over 57% of Costa Rica’s total exports, and the government continues to streamline eligibility for high-value sectors through updated regulations (Ministerio de Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica).
• Key Sectors and Trends: Advanced manufacturing, medical devices, digital technologies, and green energy remain high-growth sectors. Costa Rica is the second-largest exporter of medical devices in Latin America, and the sector continues to attract multinationals seeking skilled labor and proximity to North American markets (CINDE). The government’s commitment to decarbonization and sustainable practices aligns with global ESG investment criteria.
• Compliance and Regulatory Outlook: Foreign investors must comply with anti-money laundering (AML) standards, tax reporting, and labor laws. The Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency has enhanced digital platforms for company incorporation and permit processing, reducing red tape and improving transparency (Ministerio de Justicia y Paz).
• Economic and FDI Performance: In 2023, Costa Rica attracted over USD 3.9 billion in FDI, continuing a multi-year upward trend. Projections for 2025–2030 remain robust, bolstered by trade agreements with the US, EU, and China, as well as ongoing infrastructure investments and human capital development (Banco Central de Costa Rica).

In summary, Costa Rica offers a compelling investment climate for 2025–2030, underpinned by legal certainty, sectoral opportunities, and government initiatives designed to facilitate foreign capital and sustainable economic growth.

Macroeconomic Overview and Growth Drivers

Costa Rica continues to exhibit notable macroeconomic resilience and investment appeal in 2025, underpinned by stable governance, prudent fiscal reforms, and an outward-oriented economic model. The country’s real GDP growth for 2024 was estimated at 4.3%, with projections by the Central Bank of Costa Rica indicating a steady expansion of approximately 4% annually through 2026. This growth is driven by robust exports, particularly in medical devices and electronics, as well as a vibrant services sector—especially tourism and business process outsourcing.

• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): In 2023, Costa Rica attracted over $3.7 billion in FDI, maintaining its position as a regional leader. The majority of inflows targeted free trade zones, where tax incentives and streamlined regulatory frameworks foster competitive advantages for multinational companies (CINDE).
• Legal Framework: The investment climate is governed by the General Law on Promotion of Foreign Investments (Law No. 7210), which guarantees equal treatment for foreign investors and free capital repatriation. Costa Rica is also a member of the World Trade Organization and has numerous bilateral investment treaties ensuring investor protections (Ministry of Foreign Trade).
• Compliance and Regulatory Developments: Costa Rica has strengthened anti-money laundering (AML) and anti-corruption regulations in line with international standards, as recognized by the General Superintendency of Financial Entities (SUGEF). In 2023, reforms enhanced the transparency of company ownership and introduced stricter due diligence for financial institutions.

Strategically, Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainable development is a significant growth driver. The country sources over 98% of its electricity from renewable resources, and its decarbonization plan—set for continued implementation through 2050—attracts environmentally conscious investors (Ministry of Environment and Energy). Furthermore, the government prioritizes innovation through investment in education and digital infrastructure, leveraging its highly skilled, bilingual workforce.

Looking ahead, the outlook for investing in Costa Rica remains positive, supported by macroeconomic stability, an investor-friendly legal regime, and ongoing integration with global value chains. However, investors should monitor potential fiscal pressures, labor market reforms, and enhancements in digital governance as the country navigates its next phase of sustainable growth.

Top Investment Sectors: Real Estate, Tourism, Tech, and More

Costa Rica remains a compelling destination for foreign and domestic investment, with top sectors including real estate, tourism, and technology. Several legal reforms and government incentives have shaped the investment landscape, particularly as the country seeks to recover from global economic shifts and capitalize on sustainable growth.

• Real Estate: Costa Rica’s real estate market continues to attract international buyers, especially in prime coastal and urban areas. Foreign investors can acquire property under the same legal terms as nationals, with no restrictions except for maritime zone properties, which are regulated under the Maritime Terrestrial Zone Law (Instituto Costarricense de Turismo). In 2025, real estate transactions are expected to rise, driven by demand for vacation homes and remote work hubs.
• Tourism: Tourism remains a cornerstone of the economy, contributing over 8% to GDP. The government has rolled out incentives such as the Law for the Attraction of Investors, Rentiers, and Pensioners (Law No. 9996), granting temporary residency and tax benefits to qualifying investors (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería). With arrivals rebounding and infrastructure projects underway, the sector is forecast to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2026.
• Technology: The technology sector is gaining momentum, fueled by government policies favoring innovation and foreign direct investment. Costa Rica hosts over 350 multinational companies, particularly in medical devices and advanced manufacturing, and has positioned itself as a hub for nearshoring and services (PROCOMER). The Free Trade Zone Regime offers significant income tax exemptions for tech firms, which is a key draw for new entrants.
• Compliance and Legal Framework: The country upholds robust protections for investors, with property rights enshrined in the Constitution and business operations governed by the Code of Commerce. Compliance requirements include registration with the National Registry and adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) standards, as supervised by the Superintendencia General de Entidades Financieras (SUGEF). These measures align Costa Rica with international best practices, fostering investor confidence.

Looking ahead, Costa Rica’s investment outlook through 2025 and beyond is positive, underpinned by a stable political environment, strong legal protections, and a government commitment to sustainable development. Continued improvements in digital infrastructure and streamlined residency incentives are expected to further bolster top-performing sectors.

Foreign Investment Laws and Entry Requirements

Costa Rica has positioned itself as a prime destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Central America, owing to its stable political climate, investor-friendly legal framework, and robust regulatory institutions. The country’s legal regime governing foreign investment is rooted in the principle of non-discrimination, guaranteeing equal treatment for domestic and foreign investors under its Investment Promotion and Protection Law No. 7229 and supported by several bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements (Ministry of Foreign Trade).

• Entry Requirements: There are no general restrictions on foreign ownership, except in strategic sectors such as energy and natural resources, where specific regulations may apply. Foreigners may own 100% of companies and real estate, subject to standard procedures at the National Registry. For certain regulated activities (e.g., telecommunications, financial services), licenses or permits from sectoral authorities are required.
• Company Incorporation: The process of company registration has been streamlined through the Costa Rica Business Creation Portal, allowing both residents and non-residents to register corporations (Sociedad Anónima or Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada). Compliance with the Superintendency of Securities and Superintendency of Financial Institutions is necessary for regulated financial entities.
• Incentive Regimes: The Free Trade Zone Regime (Régimen de Zona Franca), administered by the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency, remains the principal incentive for export-oriented FDI, offering tax exemptions on income, imports, and exports. As of 2024, over 400 companies operate under this regime, contributing to more than 12% of national GDP.
• Compliance and Reporting: Foreign investors must comply with anti-money laundering measures, including Ultimate Beneficial Owner registration with the Central Bank of Costa Rica. Annual tax filings and adherence to labor laws enforced by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security are mandatory.
• Dispute Resolution: The country is a signatory of the ICSID Convention, permitting international arbitration for investment disputes. Additionally, local courts recognize and enforce foreign arbitral awards.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Costa Rica is expected to further digitalize entry procedures and expand incentives in sectors such as sustainable tourism, IT, and green energy. The current outlook remains favorable, with FDI inflows projected to grow steadily, sustained by reforms to streamline compliance and foster transparency (Central Bank of Costa Rica).

Taxation and Incentives for Investors

Costa Rica’s tax regime and investment incentives in 2025 continue to play a pivotal role in attracting both foreign and domestic investors. The country’s taxation system is primarily governed by the Income Tax Law (Ley del Impuesto sobre la Renta) and the Value Added Tax Law (Ley del Impuesto al Valor Agregado), both administered by the Ministerio de Hacienda. As of 2025, the standard corporate income tax rate ranges from 10% to 30%, determined by gross income brackets. Resident companies are taxed on Costa Rican-sourced profits, while non-residents are generally subject to withholding taxes on local income.

Costa Rica offers a suite of investment incentives, particularly through its Free Trade Zone Regime (Régimen de Zona Franca), administered by the Ministerio de Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (COMEX) and the PROCOMER agency. Companies operating under this regime may benefit from:

• Income tax holidays of up to 8-12 years, with partial exemptions for subsequent periods
• Exemptions from import duties, export taxes, and certain municipal taxes
• No restrictions on capital repatriation or foreign currency management

To qualify, firms must meet eligibility criteria regarding investment size, job creation, and operational sector—typically manufacturing, services, or logistics. In 2024, over 400 companies operated under the Free Trade Zone, contributing more than 50% of Costa Rica’s exports (PROCOMER).

Investors should be aware of increased compliance requirements, including transfer pricing rules, anti-avoidance provisions, mandatory electronic invoicing, and beneficial ownership disclosures. The General Taxation Directorate has enhanced digital oversight, resulting in higher transparency and enforcement (Ministerio de Hacienda).

Looking ahead, Costa Rica is harmonizing its tax policies with international standards, including commitments under the OECD’s Inclusive Framework. Discussions are ongoing regarding digital economy taxation and further anti-BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) measures (Ministerio de Hacienda). Investors can expect continued incentives for high-value-added activities, but also stricter compliance and reporting obligations as Costa Rica aims for fiscal sustainability and global integration through 2025 and beyond.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Factors

Investing in Costa Rica in 2025 presents a landscape shaped by robust regulatory frameworks, ongoing legal developments, and evolving compliance expectations. The country continues to position itself as a regional leader in transparency and investor protection, but navigating the system requires awareness of specific laws, procedures, and risk factors.

Costa Rica’s legal environment for foreign investment is primarily governed by the Foreign Investment Law and reinforced by its membership in global agreements such as the World Trade Organization and the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). The Ministry of Finance (Ministerio de Hacienda) oversees tax compliance and fiscal incentives, while the General Superintendency of Financial Institutions (SUGEF) regulates the financial sector.

Foreign investors enjoy national treatment, with no restrictions on capital repatriation or ownership in most sectors. However, regulated industries such as banking, insurance, and energy require compliance with licensing and reporting obligations. Notably, in 2023, the SUGEF updated anti-money laundering regulations in line with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations, increasing compliance requirements on due diligence and reporting for investors and financial intermediaries.

Costa Rica’s commitment to transparency is further underscored by the Beneficial Ownership Registry, implemented through Law No. 9416, requiring all companies to disclose their ultimate beneficial owners to the Ministry of Finance. Non-compliance can result in significant fines or restrictions on company operations.

On the risk side, investors should be mindful of ongoing legislative reforms. For example, labor and environmental regulations are actively enforced, and legal disputes are adjudicated through both national courts and international arbitration mechanisms, as Costa Rica is a party to the ICSID Convention. Political and economic stability remain high, but investors should monitor fiscal policy changes—including tax reforms under consideration in 2025 aimed at increasing government revenue and modernizing the tax code (Ministry of Finance).

• According to PROCOMER, Costa Rica attracted over $3.7 billion in foreign direct investment in 2023, with stable growth projected through 2025.
• The World Bank’s 2023 Doing Business indicators ranked Costa Rica 74th globally, reflecting improvements in regulatory quality but ongoing challenges in contract enforcement and property registration (World Bank).

In summary, Costa Rica’s regulatory regime for investors in 2025 is mature but dynamic, requiring ongoing attention to compliance, evolving statutory requirements, and risk management—especially in sectors subject to special oversight or reform.

Key Statistics: FDI, GDP Growth, and Market Performance

Costa Rica continues to demonstrate robust economic fundamentals, making it an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2025. According to the Banco Central de Costa Rica, the country’s GDP growth rate is projected to reach approximately 4.2% in 2025, driven by strong performances in the services, technology, and advanced manufacturing sectors. Inflation is expected to remain moderate, aligning with the Central Bank’s target range of 2–4%.

FDI inflows have maintained an upward trajectory. In 2024, Costa Rica registered FDI inflows exceeding USD 3.5 billion, representing a 12% year-on-year increase. This trend is expected to continue in 2025, with significant investments targeting free trade zones, medical devices, information technology, and green energy projects. The Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (PROCOMER) reports that nearly 70% of new FDI projects in 2024–2025 are in high-value-added sectors, reflecting investor confidence in Costa Rica’s skilled workforce and stable legal environment.

• Free Trade Zones: Companies operating within Costa Rica’s free trade zones benefit from tax incentives and streamlined administrative procedures. In 2024, exports from these zones accounted for over 50% of Costa Rica’s total exports, underlining their importance to the national economy (PROCOMER).
• Labor Market: As of Q1 2025, Costa Rica’s unemployment rate stands at 8.6%, with continued government initiatives focused on technical education and workforce upskilling to meet investor demand (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos).
• Market Performance: The Bolsa Nacional de Valores de Costa Rica (BNV) reports increased capital market activity in 2024–2025, with a notable uptick in both equity and debt issuances, especially from companies in renewable energy and infrastructure.

Looking ahead, Costa Rica’s economic outlook remains positive. Structural reforms—including digitalization of government services and investments in infrastructure—are expected to further enhance the investment climate. The country’s proven commitment to environmental sustainability and rule of law continues to attract multinational corporations seeking stable, responsible investment destinations in Latin America.

Legal Considerations: Property Rights, Residency, and Business Formation

Investing in Costa Rica continues to attract global interest due to its stable democracy, investor-friendly laws, and strategic position in Central America. However, understanding the legal landscape is crucial for prospective investors, particularly in the areas of property rights, residency, and business formation.

• Property Rights: Costa Rican law allows both foreigners and locals to acquire and own property with equal rights, as guaranteed by the Political Constitution of Costa Rica. Title registration is mandatory, and all real estate transactions must be recorded with the National Registry to ensure legal protection. Exceptions exist for maritime zone properties (the first 200 meters inland from the high-tide line), where special restrictions apply and foreigners may only hold up to 49% of concession rights (Costa Rican Tourism Board).
• Residency: Investors seeking residency can apply under the “Investor Residency” (Inversionista) category, which requires a minimum investment of USD $150,000 in qualifying sectors, including real estate, businesses, or projects of national interest. The 2021 legal reforms—still in effect for 2025—streamlined the process, offering tax incentives and allowing the investment threshold to include various asset classes (General Directorate of Immigration and Foreign Affairs). Holders of this residency must renew their status periodically and demonstrate ongoing compliance.
• Business Formation: Foreigners can establish corporations or limited liability companies with the same rights as nationals. The incorporation process is typically completed through a notary public and involves registration with the Public Registry of Companies. All businesses must also register with the Ministry of Finance for tax purposes and comply with anti-money laundering regulations as per Law 9449. As of 2025, Costa Rica continues to strengthen its compliance regime, requiring annual shareholder disclosures and beneficial ownership reporting to the Central Bank of Costa Rica.

Looking ahead, Costa Rica is expected to maintain its open policies toward foreign investment, though compliance requirements—especially related to transparency and anti-money laundering—are likely to remain a focus of regulatory updates. Investors should monitor developments from official sources and consult legal professionals to ensure adherence to evolving standards.

Government Initiatives and Sustainable Investment Policies

Costa Rica continues to advance its reputation as a leading destination for sustainable investment, driven by proactive government initiatives and robust policy frameworks. The nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility is codified in several laws and strategic plans, positioning it as a frontrunner in attracting responsible investors through 2025 and beyond.

A cornerstone of Costa Rica’s investment landscape is the National Decarbonization Plan 2018-2050, which targets net-zero emissions by 2050 and guides public policy toward clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and green infrastructure. This plan directly influences investment priorities and incentives, encouraging capital flows into renewable energy, electrified transport, and eco-friendly tourism. The government’s Ministerio de Ambiente y Energía oversees the implementation and compliance mechanisms for this initiative.

To facilitate foreign direct investment (FDI), Costa Rica’s Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (PROCOMER) offers a comprehensive suite of incentives and guidance for investors, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Investors benefit from free trade zones (FTZs), which confer tax exemptions and simplified customs procedures under Law No. 7210. These FTZs have increasingly prioritized sustainable operations, requiring participating companies to adhere to environmental and labor standards.

Sustainability is further embedded in Costa Rican law through the Environmental Organic Law (Law No. 7554), mandating environmental impact assessments for investment projects and setting compliance standards for conservation and resource management. The Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (SINAC) enforces these regulations, ensuring that private and public investments align with the country’s ecological preservation goals.

In 2023, Costa Rica attracted $3.9 billion in FDI, with over 40% directed toward sustainable sectors such as renewable energy, agritech, and eco-tourism, according to Banco Central de Costa Rica statistics. The outlook for 2025 projects continued growth, as global investors seek resilient markets with strong environmental credentials. Costa Rica’s government is also pursuing new bilateral investment treaties and sustainability-linked financing mechanisms to further enhance its appeal.

As climate and ESG-related regulations tighten globally, Costa Rica’s early adoption and rigorous enforcement of sustainable investment policies are expected to provide a competitive edge. Investors are advised to monitor evolving compliance requirements and leverage government support to navigate the dynamic regulatory environment.

Future Outlook: Trends, Opportunities, and Expert Predictions

Costa Rica continues to solidify its reputation as a prime investment destination in Latin America, driven by political stability, a favorable business climate, and a robust commitment to sustainability. Heading into 2025, several key trends and opportunities are shaping the country’s investment landscape.

• Green Investment and Decarbonization: Costa Rica’s ambitious National Decarbonization Plan aims for a zero-emissions economy by 2050, with significant milestones set for 2025. This creates expanding opportunities in renewable energy, sustainable construction, and eco-friendly manufacturing. Public-private partnerships and government incentives are expected to accelerate the adoption of clean technologies and attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in these sectors. The government’s Ministry of Environment and Energy plays a pivotal role in steering these policies.
• Nearshoring and Advanced Manufacturing: The global trend towards regional supply chains benefits Costa Rica, particularly in electronics, aerospace, and medical devices. The country’s free trade zones (FTZs) offer tax incentives and streamlined customs procedures, regulated by the Ministry of Foreign Trade. Expectations for 2025 include more multinational corporations establishing operations, especially in FTZs, as companies seek stable, skilled-labor locations in the Americas.
• Tech and Digital Services: Costa Rica’s digital sector is growing, with strong government backing for innovation and IT upskilling. The Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE) cites over 350 multinational companies operating in the country, with continuous inflows in software development, shared services, and fintech. Digital infrastructure improvements are slated for 2025 and beyond, improving connectivity for both businesses and residents.
• Legal and Compliance Considerations: Investors must comply with the updated General Migration Law, the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regime, and transparent tax reporting requirements. The Superintendency of Financial Institutions (SUGEF) oversees financial sector compliance, while ongoing reforms are expected to further align Costa Rica with international best practices in corporate governance and transparency.
• Key Statistics and Projections: Costa Rica attracted over $3.7 billion in FDI in 2023, and forecasts from the Central Bank of Costa Rica anticipate continued growth through 2025, led by high-value sectors. Unemployment rates are projected to decrease as new investments generate skilled jobs, particularly in science and technology.

Overall, Costa Rica is expected to remain an attractive investment destination into 2025 and beyond, supported by progressive policies, legal stability, and a strategic focus on sustainable, knowledge-based industries.

Sources & References

• PROCOMER
• Ministerio de Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica
• CINDE
• General Superintendency of Financial Entities (SUGEF)
• Instituto Costarricense de Turismo
• National Registry
• Central Bank of Costa Rica
• Ministry of Labor and Social Security
• ICSID Convention
• World Bank
• Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos