Financing for Foreigners in Costa Rica: The 2026 FAQ Guide
Financing for foreigners in Costa Rica in 2026 has evolved significantly, moving beyond simple cash transactions to include sophisticated mortgage products. As long as you are looking at titled land registered in the National Registry, securing a loan as a non-resident is a viable and structured process.
As of 2026, the options have expanded significantly to include international U.S.-style mortgages, local private bank loans, and flexible seller-financed arrangements. The following guide provides straightforward, technical answers to the most common questions regarding financing for foreigners in Costa Rica.
Core Financing Questions:
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 2026?
Foreigners generally choose between four primary routes:
International "U.S.-Style" Mortgages: Standard 30-year fixed rates from lenders like Second Street or Volo Loans.
Seller (Owner) Financing: Direct agreements between the buyer and the current property owner.
Private Equity: Asset-based "hard money" loans for short-term needs or land purchases.
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 Lafise are 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?
You must provide a comprehensive "paperwork trail" that includes:
Two years of certified tax returns and income proof.
Six months of bank statements showing the source of your down payment.
Apostilled versions of all foreign documents.
Official Spanish translations by a government-certified translator.
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.
Why is seller financing so common in the South Caribbean?
Seller financing is popular because it bypasses the 3-to-6-month wait time and heavy documentation required by local banks. It is often the only way to finance properties that do not meet strict institutional criteria or for buyers who want to close in under 30 days.
Technical Costs & Timelines
How long does it take to secure financing?
International lenders can close in 30 to 45 days. 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?
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
Financing a home in the jungle or on the coast is a grounded business decision, not a vacation whim. By aligning your expectations with the 2026 lending climate, you can secure your investment without the typical "expat surprises."
At My Puerto Viejo Realtor, we provide factual, localized expertise to help you navigate the options for financing for foreigners in Cost Rica. Contact us for a curated list of titled properties and professional referrals to local legal and financial experts.
