Costa Rica rainforest

Doing Business in Costa Rica

Why Costa Rica is a serious business destination.

For expats, international brands, and founders looking to operate in or from Costa Rica. This is what we know from being here.

97.9%

Literacy rate

5M+

Population

99%

Renewable energy

Top 10

Happiest countries

The real picture

Six reasons founders choose Costa Rica.

Bilingual, educated workforce

Costa Rica has one of the highest literacy rates in Latin America and a strong English-speaking professional class.

Political and economic stability

No military since 1948. A functioning democracy with strong institutions, consistently ranked among the most stable countries in the Americas.

A growing tech and creative economy

San José and the Greater Metropolitan Area are home to a thriving startup ecosystem, multinational offices, and a creative industry that punches above its weight.

Sustainability as a competitive advantage

Costa Rica generates nearly all of its electricity from renewable sources. For brands that care about sustainability, operating here is good ethics and good marketing.

Strategic location for the Americas

Central time zone, direct flights to major US cities, and a culture that bridges North and South America.

Quality of life that attracts talent

Access to nature, a warm culture, affordable cost of living relative to the US and Europe, and a genuine sense of community.

For expats and international founders

Questions we hear all the time.

Can I register a business in Costa Rica as a foreigner?

Yes. Costa Rica allows 100% foreign ownership of businesses. The most common structures are Sociedad Anónima (S.A.) and Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada (S.R.L.). Our partner JRC handles all legal and accounting setup.

What industries are growing fastest in Costa Rica?

Technology and software, tourism and hospitality, agriculture and food exports, medical devices, and creative services. The country has been actively attracting foreign investment in all of these sectors.

Do I need to speak Spanish to do business here?

Not necessarily. Many professionals in San José speak English, especially in the tech, tourism, and creative sectors. Having a local partner who understands the culture makes everything significantly easier.

How does PVG help international businesses entering Costa Rica?

We help with cultural positioning, local brand strategy, connecting you to the right networks, and building the digital presence you need to be taken seriously in the market.

Ready to build something here?

We know the market, the culture, and the people. Let us help you find your footing.