- Mon - Fri: 08:00 - 21:30
- San José Costa Rica
Relocating to Costa Rica involves more than logistics. Expats must navigate immigration, property, business, and compliance issues that can create serious legal risk if handled incorrectly. Our firm provides bilingual legal guidance to help expats relocate smoothly, legally, and with confidence.
Costa Rican Bar Association
No. 36269
(International Law Section) #1067959
ID #06313903
Best for: Buying property or investing Risk we prevent: Title defects, fraud, hidden liabilities CTA: Before You Buy Property in Costa Rica
Best for: Retirees, investors, relocations Risk we prevent: Delays, denials, status problems CTA: Not Sure Which Residency Applies to You?
Best for: Buying property or investing Risk we prevent: Title defects, fraud, hidden liabilities CTA: Before You Buy Property in Costa Rica
Best for: Cross-border transactions Risk we prevent: Invalid or unenforceable documents CTA: Draft a Costa Rica–Valid Power of Attorney
Best for: Agreements and negotiations Risk we prevent: Unbalanced or unenforceable contracts CTA: Before You Sign Anything…
Best for: Property owners and families Risk we prevent: Probate delays and inheritance disputes CTA: Protect Your Assets and Heirs
American Law Partners is a boutique Costa Rica law firm led by Terry Steele, a bilingual attorney licensed in Costa Rica and the United States. The firm focuses on representing foreign investors, expats, and international clients in real estate transactions, corporate structuring, notarial services, and cross-border legal matters.
All investor and expat matters are handled directly by the managing attorney or under his direct supervision. The firm operates with a U.S.-style approach to transparency, risk management, and long-term legal security.
Specialized legal guidance for expats, investors, and businesses in Costa Rica.
Tailored solutions that prioritize your goals.
Clear legal support in both English and Spanish.
Delivering results that exceed expectations.
Call for legal service
Yes. While foreigners can legally buy property in Costa Rica, only a Costa Rica-licensed attorney can properly conduct legal due diligence, verify title and liens, review zoning and concession issues, and ensure the transaction complies with Costa Rican law.
Yes. Residency is not required to own property in Costa Rica. Foreigners can hold property in their personal name or through a Costa Rican corporation, though proper structuring is important for liability, tax, and inheritance planning.
This depends on the residency category, but typically includes a valid passport, birth certificate, police background check, proof of income or investment, and documents that are legalized or apostilled and translated into Spanish when required.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence.
