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From catching the sunrise over a tropical rainforest to wrapping up a workday with a sunset surf session, Costa Rica provides a unique experience for digital nomads. The pandemic years became a boon for remote working, and much of that has stuck around afterwards. Many cafes bumped up their internet quality with the hopes of attracting visitors needing to keep connected for work.
For us, Anna works remotely, so we get to enjoy some of that freedom ourselves when it comes to our adventures. Looking for eagle rays during a morning swim is our thing before punching in from our place in Playa Flamingo. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering making this beautiful country your remote office for any amount of time.
Staying Connected
Reliable internet is one of the biggest questions people ask about working remote in Costa Rica. The good news is that connectivity has improved significantly over the past few years. In most major cities and popular tourist areas, high speed fiber internet is common, with speeds often reaching 100 to 200 Mbps, and even higher in parts of San José. Many beach towns and established nomad hubs also offer solid WiFi in vacation rentals, boutique hotels, and co working spaces. Cafes throughout destinations like La Fortuna, Puerto Viejo, and Guanacaste beach towns make it easy to set up a portable office for a few hours.
That said, not every location is created equal. More remote areas can experience slower speeds or less stable connections. Before booking long term accommodations, always confirm actual internet speeds with your host. Many remote workers now request a speed test screenshot before committing.
Getting some work done in Playa Grande
Power outages are another factor to consider when working remote in Costa Rica. Brief outages do happen, especially during the green season or in more rural areas. Most are short lived, but it’s wise to have a backup plan. Using your phone as a hotspot can keep you connected temporarily, and portable battery backups are helpful for critical work days. Starlink has also become increasingly common in remote properties, offering an additional layer of reliability for digital nomads. With a bit of planning and realistic expectations, working remote in Costa Rica is entirely doable and, in many areas, surprisingly seamless.
Visas and legal stuff
Starting in early 2024, visitors can now stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days on a tourist visa. Keep in mind that you must show proof of departure before entering the country. Recently, Costa Rica has announced a new Digital Nomad Visa that allows stays of up to a year with the possibility of extension, making it even easier to settle in for a while. Many digital nomads and residents end up being a perpetual tourist. They leave the country every 180 days before returning for another 180. Always keep an eye on current visa rules to ensure you’re following local laws.
Applications must show proof of a stable net income of at least $3,000 per month ($5,000 for families). Mandatory medical insurance must cover you through the length of your stay, and the digital nomad visa requires a one-time fee. Read more about the Digital Nomad Visa here.
Anna at BOA CoWorking in Puerto Viejo
Cost of living
Costa Rica isn’t the cheapest option in Central America, but it offers excellent value considering the quality of life. Accommodation varies from budget-friendly hostels to high-end apartments. Local markets and “sodas” (local restaurants) provide authentic and affordable food options. But remember, imported goods can be pricey, so embracing the local lifestyle goes a long way in keeping costs down if you’re traveling for an extended period. Some local car rental companies offer extended rental rates that bring the cost down for monthly rentals.
Stick with a local Costa Rican breakfast
Knowing the language
While Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by most Costa Ricans in the hospitality sector. That being said, learning a bit of Spanish won’t only help you in day-to-day interactions, but it will also help you connect with the local culture and people better.
The lifestyle
Perhaps the biggest draw for digital nomads is the Pura Vida lifestyle. Translating to “pure life,” Pura Vida is a philosophy that emphasizes slowing down, enjoying life’s simple pleasures, and appreciating the world around you. It’s a mindset that resonates with digital nomads, promoting a healthy work-life balance and encouraging you to make the most of your time in this tropical paradise.
Digital Nomad Essentials
A good travel backpack
One thing I’ve learned from my experience abroad is that a reliable backpack is worth its weight in gold. And the Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack is my new favorite. It’s solid enough to endure constant travel, spacious enough for all your gear, and even has a removal internal camera unit for photography enthusiasts. From laptops to camera gear to that book you’ve been meaning to read, this backpack is your mobile workstation.
A cable organizer
We all know that cables have a mind of their own. Leave them alone for a second, and they transform into a confusing jumble. A cable organizer is the perfect solution to keep everything neat and easily accessible. I always bring this cable organizer for cables, chargers, etc. No more digging around for your phone charger or headphones!
Packing cubes
Packing cubes make living out of a suitcase or backpack much more civilized. By compartmentalizing your belongings, everything has its place, making it quicker to find what you need and keeping your bag tidy. Trust me, once you’ve tried them, there’s no going back. I love these Suited Nomad Packing Cubes when I travel.
Travel Insurance
This one’s huge. When you’re hopping from place to place, having reliable travel insurance is a must. Safety Wing offers coverage tailored to digital nomads, with flexible plans covering everything from medical emergencies to trip interruptions. See travel insurance coverage and costs here.
A good travel credit card
Not all credit cards are created equal, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve is proof of that. This card is a digital nomad’s dream, with perks like access to airport lounges (hello, free drinks!), primary rental car insurance, and amazing reward points on travel and dining. Take a look here to see if this card is right for you.
Remote work areas are popping up
Let’s go!
The blend of diverse landscapes, warm weather, friendly locals, and a lifestyle that values balance makes Costa Rica a fantastic choice for digital nomads. Whether you’re working from a beachside café in Tamarindo or taking a conference call in a lush rainforest Airbnb in Manuel Antonio, being a digital nomad in Costa Rica is about more than just changing your work location. It’s about changing your lifestyle for the better. Check out our list of essential gear.
