Financing for Foreigners in Costa Rica: The 2026 FAQ Guide

Financing for foreigners in Costa Rica has evolved significantly in recent years, moving beyond cash-only transactions to include structured mortgage options. For buyers focused on fully titled property registered in the National Registry, securing financing as a non-resident is not only possible, but increasingly accessible when approached strategically.

In 2026, the landscape includes international U.S.-style mortgage lenders, select local bank programs, and occasional seller-financed opportunities. Each option comes with its own requirements, timelines, and level of reliability, making preparation a key factor in a successful purchase.

Buyers who enter the process with pre-approval in place and realistic expectations around timelines are consistently in the strongest position to move forward confidently and secure the right property without unnecessary delays.

This guide provides a clear breakdown of how financing for foreigners in Costa Rica actually works, what options are truly viable, and how to approach the process effectively.

Core Financing Questions for Financing in Costa Rica:

Can a non-resident foreigner legally get a mortgage in Costa Rica?

Yes, non-residents have the same legal rights to property ownership as local citizens and can access several financing paths. While local state banks typically avoid non-resident loans, private institutions and international lenders have established dedicated programs for foreign investors.

What are the main financing options for foreigners in Costa Rica?

Foreigners typically approach financing in Costa Rica through three main paths, each with a different level of accessibility and structure:

• International Mortgage Lenders:
  Structured loan programs designed specifically for foreign buyers, offered by lenders such as Second Street and Volo Loans. These are currently the most reliable and widely used financing option for non-residents purchasing titled residential property with completed construction, as lenders require an existing structure to support the loan.

• Local Costa Rican Bank Financing:
  Mortgage programs offered by institutions such as BAC Credomatic, Banco BCT, and Banco Lafise. While these institutions offer structured programs, approvals for non-resident buyers without local income or established banking relationships remain limited. These options are best viewed as secondary pathways rather than the primary route for most foreign purchasers.

• Seller Financing:
  Direct agreements between the buyer and the property owner. While this can provide flexibility in certain transactions, availability is inconsistent and terms vary widely.

What should I do before making an offer on a property in Costa Rica?

Before submitting an offer, it’s important to engage with a lender and secure pre-approval. This step allows buyers to confirm their purchasing power, understand loan terms, and structure realistic timelines within their purchase agreement. Buyers who are pre-approved are in a much stronger position to negotiate and move forward efficiently once they identify the right property.

How much down payment is required for a foreigner?

Expect to provide a down payment of 30% to 50%. While some international lenders allow 25%–30% for high-credit applicants, local Costa Rican banks rarely finance more than 60% of the appraised value for non-residents.

Local Banking & Requirements

Which local banks are the most active in foreign lending?

As of 2026, BAC Credomatic,Banco BCT, and Banco Lafiseare the leaders in the expat lending space.

BAC Credomatic:The Most Established Program

BAC remains the primary choice for international buyers due to its dedicated "Non-Resident Mortgage" infrastructure.

• The Details: They generally require a 40%–50% down payment for non-residents. As of early 2026, their terms often include a fixed interest rate for the first two years, giving you stability as you settle into your new investment.

Banco BCT: The Premium & Flexible Choice

BCT has positioned itself as a boutique alternative for high-net-worth foreigners, offering more personalized underwriting than larger banks.

• The Details: They offer up to 65% LTV (Loan-to-Value) and allow loans up to $1.5 million with 20-year terms. Their "Your Home Away from Home" program provides English-language support and focuses on luxury homes and gated communities.

Banco Lafise: The Efficiency Leader

Lafise is often cited for its modern, digital-first approach to non-resident lending.

• The Details: They offer terms up to 30 years and can finance up to 70% of the property value via a "Mortgage Trust Loan" structure specifically designed for U.S. and Canadian citizens.

What documents are required for a local mortgage?

Buyers should be prepared to provide comprehensive documentation that clearly establishes income, asset position, and the source of funds used for both the down payment and ongoing loan obligations.

• Two years of tax returns or verifiable income documentation

• Recent bank statements demonstrating liquidity and source of funds

• Documentation supporting the origin of the down payment

• Apostilled copies of foreign documents where required

• Official Spanish translations completed by a certified translator

The level of documentation required can vary depending on the lender and borrower profile, but preparation in this area has a direct impact on approval timelines.

Is a medical exam required for a Costa Rican loan?

Yes, local banks require you to pass a medical exam to qualify for a mandatory life insurance policy. The bank must be named as the beneficiary of the policy to ensure the loan is covered in the event of the borrower's death.

Regional Nuances: Puerto Viejo & Limón

Can I get a bank mortgage for a beachfront property in Puerto Viejo?

Only if the property is titled. Traditional banks will not finance "Concession Land" located within the 200-meter Maritime Zone. Because ownership rules change significantly as you move closer to the high-tide line, it is vital to understand the difference between Property Types in Costa Rica—specifically Fee Simple vs. Concession land—before you make an offer.

If the property you are considering is held via concession, you must utilize seller financing or private equity, as institutional lenders require the guarantee of a Fee Simple Title. This distinction directly determines whether traditional financing is possible, making property classification one of the first considerations when evaluating a purchase.

Why is seller financing sometimes used in the South Caribbean?

Seller financing is typically used in situations where properties do not qualify for traditional lending, such as those held under concession or with characteristics outside institutional criteria. While it can provide flexibility and, in some cases, faster timelines, availability is inconsistent and depends entirely on the seller’s willingness and financial position.

When is private equity or hard money lending used in Costa Rica?

Private equity or “hard money” lending is typically used in more specialized scenarios, such as land purchases, development projects, or properties that do not qualify for traditional financing. These loans are asset-based, short-term, and carry higher interest rates, making them a strategic tool rather than a primary financing option for most buyers.

Technical Costs & Timelines

How long does it take to secure financing?

International lenders are currently the most efficient financing route for foreign buyers purchasing titled property. While some transactions can close in as little as 30–45 days, well-structured purchases in Costa Rica are typically planned within a 45–60 day timeline to account for underwriting, appraisal, and legal coordination.

Local Costa Rican banks typically require 3 to 6 months due to the rigorous verification of foreign income and the apostille process.

What are the additional costs of a mortgage in Costa Rica?

Beyond the interest rate, you should budget 3%–4% of the loan amount for:

• Mortgage Registration: 0.25% registration fee plus documentary stamps.

• Notary Fees: 0.50% to 1.25% of the mortgage amount.

• Appraisal Fees: Usually between $500 and $1,200 for a bank-approved engineer.

The Bottom Line when Financing in Costa Rica

Financing property in Costa Rica is a structured process that requires clear expectations and proper preparation. Buyers who understand how lenders evaluate properties, timelines, and documentation are far better positioned to move forward without delays or renegotiations.

When approached correctly, financing is not a limitation—it is a practical tool that allows you to secure the right property with confidence and clarity.

At My Puerto Viejo Realtor, we provide grounded, localized guidance to help you navigate financing options with accuracy and transparency. If you're considering a financed purchase, reach out for a curated selection of titled properties and trusted introductions to legal and financial professionals who understand this market.