Costa Rica Import Regulations

Shipping Details

• • Destination Port: Bridgetown.
• • Shipping Time: 31-41 days (RORO).
• • Vessel Schedule: Monthly.

Import Rules

• • Drive Type: Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles allowed.
• • Inspection: RITEVE inspection required to obtain a valid inspection sticker for road circulation.
• • Temporary entry permits available for tourists (90-day period); after this, the car must be either re-exported or registered.

Registration Process

• • Vehicle must be registered with the National Registry.
• • RITEVE inspection and hiring a Notary Public are required for registration.
• • Registration fees depend on the vehicle’s value (approx. 4.5% of the vehicle’s value).
• • Marchamo (annual road tax and insurance) is also required.

Duties and Taxes

• • Import taxes vary by vehicle age:
• • Vehicles under 3 years: 52.29%.
• • Vehicles 4-5 years: 63.91%.
• • Vehicles 6 years or older: 79.03%.
• • Additional taxes: Import duty, consumption tax, and sales tax may apply. The taxable amount is calculated based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value.

Required Documentation

• • Proof of ownership.
• • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• • Original purchase invoice.
• • Recent Emissions Test Certificate.
• • RITEVE Inspection Document.
• • Notary Public Certification for registration.
• • Marchamo (Road Tax and Insurance).