Expat Advice: Working in Santa Ana, Costa Rica

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

Santa Ana

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

The command of English is a very important plus in this country to get a good job. Multinational companies (laboratories, mass consumption, etc.) offer well-paid positions in all areas. Offers are available on professional sites such as Linkedin, or local headhunters.

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

I work as a freelancer in graphic and web design. Currently, all my clients are outside of Costa Rica (Colombia, Argentina, United States and Mexico). I have not sought clients in this country, as I am in the process of obtaining a visa that will allow me to work here.

RelocateNow Costa Rica
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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

RelocateNow Costa Rica

RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

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

I'm in the process of getting my work visa. One piece of advice to anyone who needs to do this is that it can be done without the need to hire a lawyer. There are some organizations that offer free legal advice, and they will guide you through the steps to be able to do the process yourself.

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

Since I am a native Spanish speaker, and 90% fluent in English, language has not been an obstacle for me.

If you were transferred abroad by your employer, were you guaranteed a job upon repatriation? What type of mentoring programs does your employer offer?

I came here by myself.

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

The best advice is to do your homework in your country before you arrive in Costa Rica. Find out about opportunities and places to look for them, prepare a good resume, learn the language (at least 50%), plan your finances well, and establish personal relationships in your future destination prior to your trip. Once you arrive, be patient and stay focused on your goals. Good luck.