Escazu
SuburbanEscazu, officially known as San Rafael de Escazu, is a vibrant city located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica, just a few kilometers west of the capital, San Jose. Known for its affluence and expatriate community, Escazu is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Costa Rica, offering a mix of traditional charm and modern luxury. The city is characterized by its contemporary shopping centers, upscale restaurants, and stylish boutiques, which stand in contrast to the traditional Costa Rican homes and local markets found in other parts of the city. Escazu is also known for its excellent healthcare facilities, including the renowned CIMA Hospital. The city is divided into three main districts: San Rafael, San Miguel, and San Antonio, each with its own unique flavor. San Rafael serves as the commercial heart, while San Antonio is known for its more rural atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Escazu is a popular destination for both expatriates and well-to-do Costa Ricans, offering a high quality of life with its array of amenities and services. Despite its modern developments, Escazu has managed to preserve some of its historical elements, such as the colonial church in San Miguel. The city also offers a range of recreational activities, including golf courses and a country club, and is close to natural attractions like the Braulio Carrillo National Park.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsGet Quote
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote
Visa & Residency
Obtaining a residency in Costa Rica is a process that can be straightforward if the applicant meets all the requirements and follows the necessary steps. The most common types of residency visas for expats are the Pensionado Visa and the Rentista Visa. To qualify for the Pensionado Visa, applicants must prove a permanent income of at least $1,000 per month from a pension or retirement fund. The Rentista Visa requires a monthly income of $2,500 for at least two years, guaranteed by a banking institution, or a $60,000 deposit in a Costa Rican bank. Another option is the Investor Visa, which requires a minimum investment of $200,000 in a Costa Rican business or real estate. The process involves gathering a list of required documents, such as a birth certificate, police record, proof of income, and marriage certificate if applicable, all of which must be apostilled or authenticated by the Costa Rican consulate. After arriving in Costa Rica, the applicant must join the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), which is the national healthcare system, and pay the corresponding fees. Applications are submitted to the General Directorate of Migration and Immigration. The process can be lengthy, taking several months to complete, and it is often recommended to hire a local attorney or a specialist to assist with the application to ensure all paperwork is correctly filed and to navigate the bureaucracy. Once approved, the residency is typically granted on a temporary basis, usually for one to three years, and can be renewed. After three years of temporary residency, applicants can apply for permanent residency. The process is considered average in difficulty compared to other countries, but it does require patience and attention to detail. Applicants must remain in Costa Rica for at least four months each year to maintain their residency status. The process is bureaucratic and can be slow, but it is generally manageable with the proper guidance and preparation.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Escazu is among the highest in Costa Rica, reflecting its status as a hub for luxury living, with high-end housing, international dining, and premium shopping options.
Weather
Escazu enjoys a tropical climate with a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November, with temperatures remaining relatively constant throughout the year.
Healthcare in Escazu
Escazu is home to CIMA San Jose Hospital, a private, modern facility that offers a wide range of medical services and is considered one of the best in Central America. Additionally, residents can access Hospital Metropolitano, another private healthcare provider with a variety of services and specialists.
Schools in Escazu
Escazu hosts several international schools, including the Blue Valley School, which offers an American-based curriculum with International Baccalaureate programs. Another notable institution is the Country Day School, which is an American school serving the international community and offering education from early childhood through high school.
Escazu is home to bilingual schools such as the Mount View School, which provides a bilingual education with an emphasis on English and Spanish, fostering multicultural understanding. The Saint Mary School is another bilingual educational institution in Escazu, offering a dual-language program in a Catholic educational environment.
Restaurants in Escazu
Living in Escazu
Moving to Escazu
Healthcare in Escazu
