Having a Baby in Costa Rica: An Informative Guide for Expats

Costa Rica has long been celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, eco-friendly lifestyle, and welcoming communities—making it a popular destination for expat families looking to raise children in a vibrant, safe, and family-oriented environment. Whether you’re moving to Costa Rica for work, lifestyle, or looking to start a new chapter, the prospect of welcoming a baby into this tropical paradise is both exciting and filled with important considerations.

Many expatriates choose Costa Rica not only for its relaxed pace of life and breathtaking landscapes but also because of the country’s reputation as a nurturing environment for families. The friendly culture, outdoor adventures, and high quality healthcare options make it an appealing place to start or grow a family.

However, navigating the healthcare system, understanding legal requirements, and exploring residency options can seem overwhelming—especially for those unfamiliar with the local processes. This guide aims to provide clear, practical, and data-driven insights to help you make informed decisions about having a baby in Costa Rica. Whether you’re considering private or public healthcare, interested in how birth registration works, or curious about how having a child here can impact your residency status, we’ll cover the essentials to support your planning.

As parents who live and raise children in Costa Rica, we understand the nuances involved and are here to share valuable information to help make your family’s journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Welcome to the first step in expanding your family in this beautiful country!

Healthcare Options for Expectant Parents in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a well-regarded healthcare system, ranking among the best in Latin America. Expats expecting a baby can choose between public (CCSS, or “Caja”) healthcare and private hospitals/clinics. Each option has distinct advantages, costs, and considerations.

1. Public Healthcare (CCSS – “La Caja”)

Overview

• Costa Rica’s universal public healthcare system is managed by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS).
• Legal residents (including expats with residency) can access public healthcare by paying into the system (monthly fees based on income).
• Prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum services are free (or very low-cost) for enrolled members.

Pros

✅ Low cost – No out-of-pocket fees for prenatal visits, ultrasounds, or delivery.
✅ Comprehensive coverage – Includes hospital stays, medications, and neonatal care.
✅ Highly trained staff – Many public doctors also work in private practice.

Cons

❌ Longer wait times – Non-emergency appointments may take weeks.
❌ Limited flexibility – Fewer options for elective procedures (e.g., C-sections only if medically necessary).
❌ Language barriers – Most staff speak Spanish; translators may not always be available.

How to Enroll

• Expats must first obtain legal residency (temporary or permanent).
• Register at the nearest Ebais (local public clinic) to start prenatal care.
• Monthly contributions range from 7–11% of declared income (minimum ~$50–$100/month).

2. Private Healthcare

Overview

• Preferred by many expats for faster service, English-speaking doctors, and luxury facilities.
• No residency requirement—pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance (local or international).
• Major private hospitals (CIMA, San Rafel Archangel, Clínica Bíblica, Hospital Metropolitano, La Católica) cater to expats.

Costs

• Prenatal care: $1,500–$3,500 (includes ultrasounds, lab tests, specialist visits).
• Delivery:
  • Natural birth: $3,000–$6,000
  • C-section: $5,000–$9,000
• Private insurance (e.g., INS) can reduce costs but may exclude maternity for the first year.

Pros

✅ Shorter wait times – Appointments scheduled quickly.
✅ English-speaking staff – Easier communication for non-Spanish speakers.
✅ More birthing options – Epidurals, water births, private recovery rooms.

Cons

❌ Higher costs – Full payment due before discharge in some hospitals.
❌ Insurance limitations – Pre-existing conditions or maternity may not be covered immediately.

3. Choosing Between Public & Private

Best For:

• Public: Budget-conscious expats with residency, long-term planners.
• Private: Expats without residency, those wanting faster/upscale care.

4. Rural vs. Urban Access

• San José, Heredia, Escazú: Best private/public options, specialist care.
• Beach towns (Nosara, Tamarindo): Limited private clinics; may require transfer to cities for delivery.
• Remote areas: Public Ebais clinics handle basic prenatal care; complicated pregnancies referred to cities.

5. Insurance & Payment Tips

• Public system: Requires residency; enroll early (processing takes weeks).
• Private insurance: Check waiting periods for maternity coverage (often 12+ months).
• Self-pay discounts: Some private hospitals offer package deals for cash payments.

Recommendation

• If you have residency and time to wait, public healthcare is a cost-effective choice.
• If you prefer convenience, English support, and flexibility, private care is worth the investment.
• Hybrid approach: Some expats use public for prenatal care but switch to private for delivery.

Prenatal Care

1. Prenatal Care in the Public System (CCSS – “La Caja”)

How It Works

• Once enrolled in the Caja (public healthcare), you’ll be assigned to a local Ebais (public clinic) for initial checkups.
• After the first trimester, you’ll typically be referred to a larger public hospital for specialized prenatal care.
• Standard prenatal visits include:
  • Monthly checkups (more frequent in later trimesters)
  • Basic ultrasounds (usually 2–3 during pregnancy)
  • Blood tests, urine tests, and weight/blood pressure monitoring
  • Free prenatal vitamins and iron supplements

Pros of Public Prenatal Care

✅ Free or extremely low-cost (covered by monthly Caja contributions).
✅ Standardized, evidence-based care—similar protocols to developed countries.
✅ Access to specialists if high-risk (though wait times may apply).

Cons of Public Prenatal Care

❌ Longer wait times (appointments may be scheduled weeks apart).
❌ Less flexibility in choosing doctors or appointment times.
❌ Limited advanced testing (e.g., genetic screenings may not be routinely offered).

What to Expect at Appointments

• Bring your Carné de Salud (health ID card).
• Visits are brief (10–20 minutes) unless complications arise.
• Language barrier: Most doctors speak basic English, but nurses/receptionists may not.

2. Prenatal Care in Private Healthcare

How It Works

• You can choose your OB-GYN (many speak English and trained abroad).
• Flexible scheduling—appointments often available within days.
• More tests & options (e.g., 3D/4D ultrasounds, genetic testing, elective C-sections).

Typical Private Prenatal Schedule

Costs in Private Care

• Initial consultation: $80–$150
• Routine ultrasound: $100–$200
• Full prenatal package (all visits + basic scans): ~$1,500–$3,500
• Additional tests (e.g., NIPT genetic screening): $400–$800

Pros of Private Prenatal Care

✅ Personalized attention (longer appointments, more discussion time).
✅ English-speaking doctors (especially in expat-friendly hospitals).
✅ More advanced testing options (e.g., early genetic screenings).

Cons of Private Prenatal Care

❌ Expensive if uninsured (paying out-of-pocket adds up).
❌ Insurance may not cover maternity immediately (often 12-month waiting period).

3. Language & Communication Tips

• Public system: Bring a translator or bilingual friend if your Spanish is limited.
• Private hospitals: Many OB-GYNs speak English (especially at CIMA, Clínica Bíblica).
• Key Spanish phrases:
  • “Tengo una cita prenatal” (I have a prenatal appointment)
  • “¿Habla inglés?” (Do you speak English?)
  • “Me duele aquí” (It hurts here)

4. Recommended Hospitals & Clinics for Prenatal Care

Public Hospitals (Best for Residency Holders)

• Hospital México (San José) – High-volume but well-regarded.
• Hospital Calderón Guardia (San José) – Good maternal care.
• Hospital Enrique Baltodano (Liberia) – full service hospital

Private Hospitals (Best for Expats)

• CIMA Hospital (Escazú) – Top choice for English-speaking expats.
• Hospital San Rafael Archangel (Liberia) – expat focused full service hospital 
• Clínica Bíblica (San José) – Modern facilities, many bilingual doctors.
• Hospital Metropolitano (various locations) – Affordable private option.
• La Católica (San José) – Known for excellent OB-GYN care.

5. Special Considerations for Expats

Insurance & Payment

• Public system: Requires residency; enroll early (processing takes weeks).
• Private insurance: Check waiting periods (maternity often excluded for 1st year).
• Self-pay discounts: Some private clinics offer package deals.

High-Risk Pregnancies

• Private hospitals have better neonatal ICUs (e.g., CIMA’s NICU is top-rated).
• Public hospitals can handle complications but may lack private rooms.

Cultural Differences

• Less interventionist approach in public system (e.g., fewer elective C-sections).
• More natural birth focus—epidurals are available but not always pushed.

Tips for Expats

✔ Start early—public system requires residency; private needs advance booking.
✔ Choose a hospital near your home (traffic in San José can delay emergencies).
✔ Keep records organized—ask for printed copies of ultrasounds/test results.
✔ Join expat mom groups (Facebook groups like “Expats Having Babies in Costa Rica”).

Labor & Delivery in Costa Rica: What Expats Need to Know

Having a baby in Costa Rica can be a smooth and positive experience, but understanding the local healthcare system’s approach to labor and delivery is key. This section covers public vs. private hospital experiences, birthing options, costs, and what to expect during and after childbirth.

1. Where Will You Deliver? Public vs. Private Hospitals

Public Hospitals (CCSS – “La Caja”)

• Who can use it? Only legal residents enrolled in the public healthcare system (foreigners are not denied if urgent)
• Cost: Free (covered by monthly Caja contributions).
• What to expect:
  • Shared labor/delivery rooms (privacy may be limited).
  • Basic facilities (clean but not luxurious).
  • Strict protocols (e.g., limited birth partners, no elective C-sections).
  • Postpartum care: Usually a 24–48 hour stay for vaginal births, longer for C-sections.

Pros:

✅ No cost for delivery, medications, or neonatal care.
✅ Skilled staff (many public doctors are highly trained).

Cons:

❌ Less privacy (shared recovery rooms, limited visitor policies).
❌ Fewer pain management options (epidurals may not always be available).
❌ Language barrier (most staff speak Spanish only).

Private Hospitals

• Who can use it? Anyone, including tourists and expats without residency.
• Cost:
  • Natural birth: $3,000–$6,000
  • C-section: $5,000–$9,000+
• What to expect:
  • Private delivery suites (some with bathtubs for water births).
  • More birthing options (epidurals, doula support, elective C-sections).
  • English-speaking staff (common in expat-friendly hospitals like CIMA and San Rafael Archangel).
  • Postpartum care: Private rooms, often with space for a partner to stay overnight.

Pros:

✅ More comfort & privacy (private rooms, personalized care).
✅ Flexible birth plans (water births, delayed cord clamping, etc.).
✅ Faster access to specialists (NICU, lactation consultants).

Cons:

❌ Expensive without insurance.
❌ Some private hospitals require full payment before discharge.

2. Birthing Options in Costa Rica

Notes on C-Sections:

• Public hospitals only perform C-sections if medically necessary.
• Private hospitals allow elective C-sections (some have high rates, so discuss your preferences early).

3. What to Expect During Labor & Delivery

Public Hospitals:

1. Arrival: Go to the emergency/triage area.
2. Admission: Nurses will check dilation; if not far along, you may be sent home.
3. Labor Ward: Shared room with other laboring mothers.
4. Delivery: Doctors and midwives assist; partners may or may not be allowed.
5. Postpartum: Moved to a shared recovery room with other new moms.

Private Hospitals:

1. Pre-registration: Many hospitals allow pre-admission forms to speed up intake.
2. Private Labor Suite: Equipped with monitors, birthing balls, sometimes tubs.
3. Delivery: OB-GYN or midwife attends; partner can stay the whole time.
4. Recovery: Private room with space for family.

4. Pain Management Options

Note: If you definitely want an epidural, choose a private hospital and confirm availability with your OB-GYN.

5. Postpartum Care & Hospital Stay

Public Hospitals:

• Stay: 1–2 days (vaginal birth), 3–4 days (C-section).
• Baby stays with you? Usually, unless complications arise.
• Breastfeeding support: Basic, may not have lactation consultants.

Private Hospitals:

• Stay: 2 days (vaginal), 3–4 days (C-section).
• Luxury perks: Some offer celebratory dinners, professional newborn photos.
• Lactation support: Often includes a consultant visit.

6. Emergency Situations & Neonatal Care

• Public hospitals have NICUs, but equipment may be older.
• Private hospitals (especially CIMA, Clínica Bíblica) have advanced NICUs.
• If in a remote area, you may need to transfer to San José for high-risk delivery.

7. Checklist for Expats Preparing for Delivery

✔ Confirm hospital registration (private) or Caja eligibility (public).
✔ Pack a hospital bag (include passports, insurance docs, baby clothes).
✔ Arrange transportation (San José traffic can delay emergencies).
✔ Learn key Spanish phrases (e.g., “Estoy en trabajo de parto” = “I’m in labor”).

Legal and Administrative Aspects of Birth in Costa Rica

Having a baby in Costa Rica comes with important legal and bureaucratic steps, especially for expats. This section explains citizenship, birth registration, passports, and dual nationality considerations to ensure your child’s documentation is properly secured.

1. Automatic Costa Rican Citizenship by Birth

• Jus soli (right of the soil): Any child born in Costa Rica is automatically a Costa Rican citizen, regardless of parents’ nationality.
• Dual citizenship allowed: Costa Rica recognizes dual nationality, so your child can hold both their birth country’s passport and a Costa Rican one.
• No residency requirement: Even if parents are tourists, the child is still a citizen.

Exception: Children born to diplomats do not receive automatic citizenship.

2. Registering the Birth & Obtaining a Birth Certificate

Step 1: Hospital Documentation

• After birth, the hospital issues a “Certificado de Nacimiento” (Birth Certificate Draft).
• Timeframe: Must be submitted to the Civil Registry (Registro Civil) within 30 days.

Step 2: Formal Registration at the Civil Registry

• Where? Local Registro Civil or Municipalidad (some hospitals facilitate this).
• Required Documents:
  • Parents’ passports (original + copy).
  • Hospital birth certificate.
  • If married: Marriage certificate (translated & apostilled if foreign).
  • If unmarried: Both parents must be present to register the child, or a notarized acknowledgment of paternity.

Step 3: Receiving the Official Birth Certificate

• Processing Time: Typically 1–4 weeks.
• “Acta de Nacimiento”: This is the legal birth record needed for passports, residency, and foreign documentation.

3. Applying for a Costa Rican Passport

• Where? At the Migración office or designated passport agency.
• Required Documents:
  • Official birth certificate.
  • Parents’ passports & residency cards (if applicable).
  • Two passport-sized photos of the baby.

Note: Some parents skip this step if they don’t plan to use Costa Rican citizenship immediately.

4. Registering the Child with Your Home Country

For U.S. Citizens

• Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA): File at the U.S. Embassy in San José.
• U.S. Passport: Apply simultaneously.
• Social Security Number: Request through the embassy.
• Required Documents:
  • Costa Rican birth certificate (translated if needed).
  • Parents’ U.S. passports + proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificates).
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable).

For Canadians, Europeans, and Other Nationals

• Check with your embassy for birth registration requirements.
• Many countries require:
  • A local birth certificate (translated & apostilled).
  • Parents’ passports + proof of residency status.

5. Dual Citizenship Considerations

• Tax Implications: Most countries (like the U.S.) tax based on residency, not dual citizenship.
• Military Service: Costa Rica has no mandatory military service.
• Travel: The child can enter/exit Costa Rica on either passport.

Pro Tip: Some countries (e.g., Japan) do not recognize dual citizenship—check your home country’s laws.

6. Naming Rules in Costa Rica

• No restrictions on foreign names, but they must fit in the registry system.
• Middle names & surnames:
  • Traditionally, Costa Ricans use two last names (father’s + mother’s).
  • Expats can choose a single surname if preferred.

7. Legal Assistance & Common Pitfalls

• Notary/Attorney Help: Recommended if documents are complex (e.g., unmarried parents, foreign marriages).
• Delays: Some registries are slow—start early!
• Translation/Apostille: If using foreign documents, they may need to be translated by a certified translator and apostilled.

8. Checklist for Expats

✔ Register the birth within 30 days at the Civil Registry.
✔ Get multiple certified copies of the birth certificate.
✔ Apply for home country documentation (e.g., CRBA for Americans).
✔ Consider a Costa Rican passport (optional but useful for residency).
✔ Keep all originals in a safe place (some offices don’t return documents).

Residency Benefits for Parents Through Their Child

One of the biggest advantages of having a baby in Costa Rica is the pathway to residency it creates for parents. This section explains how to leverage your child’s Costa Rican citizenship to secure legal status, including requirements, timelines, and expert tips to streamline the process.

1. How a Costa Rican-Born Child Helps Parents Get Residency

Costa Rican immigration law allows parents of a Costa Rican citizen (minor) to apply for temporary residency, which can later transition to permanent residency.

Key Benefits:

✅ Faster approval than other residency categories (e.g., pensionado or rentista).
✅ No income requirement (unlike investor or retiree visas).
✅ Path to permanent residency after 3 years.
✅ Work permit eligibility (unlike some other visa types).

2. Step-by-Step Residency Process

Step 1: Register the Child’s Birth

• Ensure the baby’s birth is officially registered with the Civil Registry 
• Obtain the “Acta de Nacimiento” (birth certificate).

Step 2: Apply for Residency Under “Padre o Madre de Costarricense”

• Where? Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME) 
• Required Documents:
  • Child’s Costa Rican birth certificate.
  • Parents’ passports (valid for at least 6 months).
  • Police clearance from home country (apostilled & translated).
  • Birth certificates of parents (apostilled & translated if foreign).
  • Proof of economic solvency (bank statements, but no minimum amount required).
  • Medical insurance (either public Caja or private policy).
  • Two passport-sized photos.
  • Application fee (~$200–$300).

Step 3: Wait for Approval

• Processing Time: ~6–12 months (varies by backlog).
• Temporary Residency Card: Valid for 1–2 years (renewable).

Step 4: Transition to Permanent Residency

• After 3 years of temporary residency, parents can apply for permanent residency.
• Requirements:
  • Clean criminal record.
  • Proof of continued ties to Costa Rican child (e.g., school records).

3. Can Both Parents Get Residency?

• Yes, but each parent must apply separately (even if married).
• Unmarried parents: The non-biological parent may need additional legal steps to prove parenthood.

4. Work Rights & Limitations

• Temporary residency allows parents to work legally in Costa Rica.
• No need for a separate work permit 

Additional Considerations for Expat Parents

1. Navigating the Healthcare System as a Foreigner

Language Barriers:

• While private hospitals often have English-speaking staff, public clinics may not.
• Pro Tip: Use translation apps (DeepL, Google Translate) or hire a bilingual “patient advocate” for important appointments.

Cultural Differences in Medical Care:

• Less interventionist approach: Doctors may recommend natural remedies before prescriptions.
• Breastfeeding is strongly encouraged—formula is available but not pushed by medical staff.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Save these numbers in your phone:
  • 911 – General emergencies
  • 1282 – Public hospital ambulance (if enrolled in Caja)
  • Private ambulance services (e.g., Hospital CIMA: 2208-1000)

2. Postpartum Support & Baby Supplies

Lack of Big-Box Stores:

• No Target/BabiesRus—baby items are sold at:
  • Pricesmart (chain store, like Costco): Diapers, wipes in bulk.
  • Walmart (chain): strollers, clothing, diapers
  • Mundo del Bebé (Chain store): Cribs, strollers, local brands.
  • Amazon Shipping: Amazon delivers to your door; or use freight forwarders for U.S. purchases.

Postpartum Care Traditions:

• “La Cuarentena”: A 40-day recovery period where moms rest and avoid cold foods (common in Latin cultures).
• Placenta encapsulation: Rare but available through niche wellness centers.

Lactation Help:

• Private hospitals often have lactation consultants.
• Expat-friendly options: Liga de La Leche Costa Rica (breastfeeding support group).

3. Bureaucracy Beyond Birth Certificates

Vaccination Requirements:

• Costa Rica follows WHO standards. Your child will need:
  • BCG (tuberculosis vaccine) – Given at birth in public hospitals.
  • Hepatitis B, DTaP, Hib – Starts at 2 months.
• Keep records for school enrollment later.

Schooling & Childcare:

• Public schools: Free but Spanish-only (from age 4).
• Private options: Bilingual preschools like Dolphins Academy (Playas del Coco) or Wonder Education (Sardinal).
• Nannies (“empleadas domésticas”): Common and affordable (~$500–$800/month).

4. Cultural Integration & Community

Social Expectations:

• Costa Ricans (“Ticos”) are warm but traditional—children are included in all social events.
• Punctuality is flexible: A “9 AM” playdate might start at 9:30.

Tips for Stress-Free Parenting in Costa Rica

1. Learn “Tico Baby Lingo”:
   • “Chineado” = A spoiled child (said affectionately).
   • “Pacha” = Bottle (not universally understood—better to say “biberón”).
2. Diaper Changing Surprise:
   • Many restrooms lack changing tables—carry a portable mat.
3. Sun Safety:
   • Baby sunscreen is expensive locally; stock up abroad.
4. Water Safety:
   • Tap water is safe in cities, but use bottled water for baby formula in rural areas.

Checklist for New Expat Parents

✔ Health: Confirm pediatrician and vaccination schedule.
✔ Legal: Register birth, apply for passports, and consider residency.
✔ Supplies: Stock up on niche baby products via Amazon or local importers.
✔ Community: Join parenting groups for insider advice.

Post-Birth Life & Family Integration in Costa Rica

Having a baby in Costa Rica is just the beginning—now comes the journey of raising your child in a new culture while navigating residency, schooling, and family life. This section covers everything from legal paperwork to cultural adaptation, helping your family thrive long-term.

1. Securing Your Child’s Legal Documents

Costa Rican Cédula (National ID)

• Who needs it? All Costa Rican citizens, including newborns.
• How to apply:
  • Visit the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE) with:
    • Birth certificate (“Acta de Nacimiento”)
    • Parents’ passports
    • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill)
• Why it matters: Needed for school enrollment, healthcare, and travel.

Foreign Passport & Documentation

• Renewal reminder: Most countries require child passports to be renewed every 2–5 years.
• U.S. citizens: File the Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) within 6 months to avoid complications.

Pro Tip:

Keep digital scans of all documents in a secure cloud folder (Costa Rican offices often lose paperwork).

2. Healthcare for Your Growing Child

Public System (CCSS) Benefits

• Free healthcare includes:
  • Pediatric checkups
  • Vaccinations (WHO schedule)
  • Emergency care
• Drawback: Long wait times for specialists (e.g., pediatric dermatology).

Private Healthcare Options

• Recommended pediatricians:
  • Dr. María Fernanda Jiménez (Clínica Bíblica, English-speaking)
  • Dr. Randall Álvarez (Hospital CIMA, expat favorite)
• Vaccine flexibility: Private clinics offer alternate schedules (e.g., delayed vaccines).

Cost Example:

• Private pediatric visit: $60–$100
• Vaccines not covered by Caja: $50–$150 each

3. Childcare & Education Choices

Preschool (Ages 2–5)

Schooling (Ages 6+)

• Public schools: Teach in Spanish; strong in social skills but weak in resources.
• International schools: Offer IB or U.S. diplomas

4. Residency & Long-Term Planning

Maintaining Parental Residency

• Requirements:
  • Annual proof of economic solvency (bank statements).
  • Updated Caja payments (if using public healthcare).
• Permanent residency: Apply after 3 years of temporary residency.

Citizenship for Parents

• After 7 years of legal residency, parents can apply for naturalization.
• Bonus: Naturalized citizens can vote and hold public office.

Checklist for Family Integration

✔ Legal: Secure child’s cédula and passport renewals.
✔ Healthcare: Choose pediatrician and vaccination plan.
✔ Education: Research schools and apply early.
✔ Community: Join parent groups for support.
✔ Finances: Budget for private school if needed.

Experience of pregnancy and childbirth

Our friend shared her experience of pregnancy and birth in Costa Rica:

I gave birth in September 2023 at Hospital México in San José. We were living in Playa del Coco at the time, and I had been seeing a private doctor in Liberia for my whole pregnancy. But since it was my first baby, we decided to go to the capital to feel more secure. Some friends recommended Hospital México, and now I can say it was a great choice.

At the beginning of the pregnancy, I registered with the public healthcare system (Caja). I did blood tests and got officially confirmed as pregnant at the hospital in Liberia. Then I was assigned to the EBAIS clinic in Coco. I had three checkups there, including tests and basic monitoring.

I also went to a private OB-GYN once a month for ultrasounds and consultations. It was easy to find a good doctor in Liberia — there were lots of positive reviews, and I was really happy with mine.

Labor lasted almost 11 hours. It was long and hard, but the medical staff was amazing the whole time. The room had everything I needed. I was allowed to take hot showers, which really helped me relax — I did it three times! They even offered food, though I wasn’t hungry at all.

My partner was with me the entire time, which was super helpful. I honestly can’t imagine going through it alone.

The first couple of days after birth were tough. I didn’t know much about caring for a newborn. But the nurses were great — they showed me how to feed, bathe, and change the baby. I felt supported every step of the way.

I didn’t have private insurance, but once the pregnancy was confirmed, I was given public coverage. It included everything — all prenatal care, the birth, and postpartum support — completely free.

We were discharged on day four. The hospital gave us all the paperwork, and a few days later we got the birth certificate. After that, we were able to apply for the baby’s passport.

In the end, it all went much smoother than I expected. I felt safe, cared for, and supported. I’d definitely recommend Costa Rica as a place to give birth.

– Elina

Conclusion: Embracing Parenthood in Costa Rica – A Rewarding Adventure

Having a baby in Costa Rica is more than just a medical experience—it’s the beginning of a rich, cross-cultural family journey. From world-class healthcare to a welcoming community, this country offers expat parents a unique blend of security, adventure, and simplicity. Here’s how to make the most of it.

Key Takeaways for Expat Parents

1. Healthcare Works for You
   • Costa Rica’s public and private systems both deliver excellent care.
   • Plan ahead: Enroll in the Caja early or budget for private delivery ($3K–$9K).
2. Citizenship is a Golden Ticket
   • Your child’s automatic Costa Rican citizenship unlocks:
     • Parental residency (no income requirements!).
     • Dual nationality for lifelong flexibility.
3. Bureaucracy is Manageable
   • Register the birth within 30 days, then:
     • Get the Acta de Nacimiento → Apply for Cédula → Secure passports.
   • Pro tip: Use a lawyer for residency apps—it’s worth the $1K fee.
4. Culture Shapes Parenting
   • Ticos prioritize family—expect warm but nosy neighbors.
   • Learn the lingo: “¡Qué chineado!” means your baby is adored (not spoiled).
5. Nature is Your Playground
   • Raise kids who surf before they walk and spot monkeys on hikes.
   • Safety note: Teach ocean currents awareness early.

Final Checklist Before Baby Arrives

• ✓ Healthcare: Pick a hospital (CIMA for luxury, Caja for budget).
• ✓ Legal Prep: Apostille marriage/birth certs from home country.
• ✓ Community: Join Expatriates in Costa Rica (Facebook).
• ✓ Finances: Save $5K+ for private care or confirm Caja enrollment.

A Personal Note

Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” ethos shines brightest in how it embraces families. Yes, you’ll navigate slow bureaucracy and language gaps, but the trade-offs—safe communities, affordable childcare, and a green lifestyle—are why so many expat parents stay for good.

Your Next Steps:

1. Tour hospitals (even public ones allow visits).
2. Consult a residency lawyer.
3. Breathe—you’re giving your child an extraordinary childhood.

Welcome to parenthood, Tico-style! 🌴👶

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Anna and Tony Velez

Anna and Tony Velez are award-winning luxury real estate experts with nearly a decade of experience as top-performing agents at Coldwell Banker Coast to Coast Properties in Costa Rica. Recognized with multiple achievement awards every year, they hold the prestigious Luxury Marketing Specialist (LMS) designation—an elite credential awarded to only the most accomplished agents worldwide. With deep expertise in construction, project management, and accounting, they provide clients with unmatched insight into Costa Rica’s high-end property market, from development opportunities to seamless transactions. Trusted by investors and expats alike, Anna and Tony combine local market mastery, transparent service, and a passion for Costa Rica’s luxury lifestyle. For expert guidance, visit BrokerCostaRica.com.

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Latest posts by Anna and Tony Velez (see all)

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