Expat Advice: Working in San Jose, Costa Rica

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

San Jose

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Two high profile areas in todays market are: English Teachers and Informatics. Most jobs are found by classified advertisements.

What type of work do you do and how did you find your job?

I am a medical doctor. I have 40 years of first hand experience in living and working in Costa Rica. I have held many jobs in Costa Rica. All positions were obtained the hard way..(legally and by merit)

Expats living in Costa Rica interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Get a Quote

Expats living in Costa Rica interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

How did you obtain your work permit? What advice would you have for others about work permits?

Work permits are granted on a occupational priority basis. A company must prove they cannot find a Costa Rican to fill the job before they can sponsor you. % quotas are inforce for total expat workforce numbers in all businesses.

Have you taken language and cross-cultural training courses to prepare for your assignment? If so, how have they helped you on the job?

Non Spanish speakers are at a serious disadvantage. Most local so-called English speakers are only barely functional.

What advice would you offer others about finding jobs and working abroad?

Most countries have protective labor laws that make finding local work very difficult. You must be prepared to meet the legal requirements of any country where you wish to work.

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Expatriate Health Insurance

Get a quote for expat health insurance in Costa Rica from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get a Quote

Guide to Living in San Jose

Healthcare in Costa Rica

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Support your favorite restaurants in San Jose as they recover from the pandemic. Submit a free listing for them on Expat Exchange to help spread the word about them to the expat community.

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