Construction Contracts in Costa Rica: Key Considerations
A well-structured and comprehensive construction contract is essential to avoid many of the common problems that arise during building projects in Costa Rica. The level of detail and care given to the drafting of such an agreement directly impacts the likelihood that the final outcome will match the expectations of the parties and remain within […]
Estate Planning When Owning Assets in Costa Rica
Many foreign individuals who acquire property or other assets in Costa Rica do not initially consider the importance of proper estate planning in the country. However, planning for the transfer of assets located in Costa Rica can be as important—if not more so—than planning in one’s home jurisdiction, particularly due to the distance that often […]
Why Buyers Should Avoid Signing Informal Commitments in Costa Rica Real Estate Transactions
In Costa Rica, it is common practice for sellers, developers or brokers to request prospective buyers to sign an offer, letter of intent, or reservation agreement, often accompanied by a deposit or reservation payment. However, signing preliminary documents or transferring funds before conducting proper due diligence can expose buyers to unnecessary legal and financial risks. […]
The Importance of a Sale and Purchase Agreement in Costa Rica Real Estate Transactions
Executing a properly drafted Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) is a fundamental step in the acquisition of real estate in Costa Rica. This document establishes the clear rules, terms, and conditions governing the transaction, providing legal certainty and protecting the interests of all parties involved. Beyond serving as a roadmap toward closing, the SPA defines […]
Acquiring Real Estate in Costa Rica: Legal Due Diligence
Conducting legal due diligence is a fundamental step when acquiring real estate in Costa Rica. This process is designed to verify the legal status of the property and to identify any risks or contingencies that could affect the buyer’s rights, future use, and/or investment. Proper due diligence goes beyond simply confirming ownership; it provides a […]
Powers of Attorney in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, individuals and corporations may legally appoint a third party to act on their behalf through a Power of Attorney (“POA”). Powers of Attorney are essential legal instruments widely used in real estate transactions, corporate operations, execution of contracts, application for permits, banking matters, immigration procedures, estate planning, investment structures, and international business […]
Lease Agreements in Costa Rica: A Strategic Guide for Tenants and Investors
Navigating lease agreements in Costa Rica requires more than simply signing a contract—it demands a clear understanding of a legal framework that differs significantly from many international jurisdictions. Whether you are relocating, investing, launching a business, or expanding operations, securing the right lease structure is essential for protecting your assets, operational continuity, and long-term profitability. […]
Well-Known Trademarks and Nullity Action
Costa Rican trademark law recognizes a special protection granted to well-known trademarks (“marcas notorias” in Spanish), even when such trademarks are not registered locally. A well-known trademark is one that has achieved a significant level of recognition within the relevant sector of the public, whether through international use, advertising, market presence, or commercial reputation. This […]
The Current Importance and Relevance of Registering a Trade Name Before the Costa Rican Intellectual Property Registry
In 2025, significant modifications were introduced for the incorporation and management of companies in Costa Rica. A very relevant change was the impossibility of assigning a corporate name composed of words to a new “sociedad anĂłnima” or “sociedad de responsabilidad limitada” (limited liability company), or when changing the corporate name of an existing company. Currently, […]
The Importance of Registering Trademarks in Costa Rica
Registering trademarks in Costa Rica is a critical step for any company seeking to operate, expand, or commercialize its products or services in the country. A common misconception among foreign businesses is that trademark registrations obtained in other jurisdictions automatically provide protection in Costa Rica. This is not the case. Trademark rights are territorial, and […]