Investment in Costa Rica - Alajuela Province

The province of Alajuela is divided up into fifteen cantons; Alajuela, Grecia, Orotina, Upal, San Ramón, San Mateo, San Carlos, Los Chiles, Atenas, Naranjo, Alfaro Ruíz, Guatuso, Palmores, Poás and Valverde Vega.

Alajuela serving as capital of Alajuela Province and remains a principal trade center for cattle, sugar and coffee. The Locals (referred as Alajuelenses) have a friendly demeanor and are fond of giving amusing nicknames to friends, neighbors and even strangers.

People watching is a past time and many sit in the beautiful central park, where children play near the fountain and vendors sell granizados, fruit, shaved ice topped with sweet syrup, and condensed milk.

People in the region have a strong commitment to the Costa Rican motto "PURA VIDA" (pure life).

If you have decided to make an investment in Costa Rica and wish to pursue residency, the Government of Costa Rica has requirements.

If you are considering retiring to Costa Rica and become a resident here are the requirements:

• Certificate: The applicant should provide an original document from the company, government or institution guaranteeing that he/she will receive at least SIX HUNDRED DOLLARS (US$600.00) a month from a qualified retirement plan or a lifetime pension source outside Costa Rica.

It is always suggested that before you decide to move permanently or make any real estate investment, it is a good idea to spend time in Costa Rica to make sure it is a place for you and the area is a good choice to invest in.

There is a distinct difference traveling as a tourist and living as a resident in the Costa Rican lifestyle.

It is suggested that when making your real estate investment in Costa Rica, live there for at least a year if you intend to live there permanently.