Unfortunate Corruption
Costa Rica is a breathtaking country, renowned for its stunning landscapes, warm and friendly people, and an exceptional lifestyle. It’s no wonder that few visitors leave without dreaming of how they might return—or even relocate—before their flight home.
My first trip to Costa Rica in 2001 was nothing short of mind-blowing and eye-opening. I vividly remember that first morning: sitting in smooth, sturdy Guanacaste wooden chairs, the gentle Pacific breeze brushing against my face as a symphony of birds filled the air. Breakfast was an unforgettable experience—fresh starfruit, melon, and the sweetest papaya I had ever tasted, all enjoyed from a shaded table overlooking a volcanic rock beach. This felt like paradise, a version of life I hadn’t imagined possible.
From that moment on, the dream of returning to Costa Rica was born. The thought of spending every day surrounded by this climate, sunshine, and vibrant energy became an intoxicating vision. Years of persistent dreaming and countless return trips eventually culminated in building a life in Costa Rica—a true testament to what dreams are made of.
Living the dream is exactly that—a dream—but it doesn’t always account for the realities of life. Reality has a way of reminding you that you’re not just dreaming; you’re living in a world filled with other people, each with their own agendas and perspectives, often different from your own.
In my experience, most people I’ve encountered in Costa Rica are incredible—fun, friendly, talented, hospitable, and generous. However, as with anywhere in the world, you’re bound to come across individuals who are less than honorable—morally bankrupt opportunists who challenge the idyllic vision.
You may encounter individuals in Costa Rica who are on the run from the law in their home countries or even hardened criminals. Some locals, known as Ticos, might resent foreigners and wish them ill, while others may see expats as easy targets—a cash cow or a naïve "gringo" to exploit. Likewise, you might come across other expats taking advantage of loopholes in Costa Rica’s legal system, disregarding the country's laws or acting as though those laws don’t apply to them.
Costa Rica is a country on a rapid growth trajectory, perhaps growing faster than the government can effectively manage. This rapid expansion creates opportunities for individuals with bad intentions to exploit the system. At the same time, a widening wealth gap has left many people vulnerable to exploitation or influence, which can, unfortunately, breed corruption and bribery.
I say this with reluctance, as the vast majority of people in Costa Rica are wonderful—kind, generous, and welcoming. However, my personal experiences have shown me that corruption and bribery do exist, often driven by these societal challenges.
Let’s consider, for example, the traffic stops enforced by police in Costa Rica. While they may appear to be routine speed traps or passport checks for illegal migrants, my personal experience has shown a different side. On multiple occasions, I’ve encountered police officers who openly demanded cash or goods to let me pass or avoid a speeding ticket. This isn’t an isolated incident; locals and expats in the know often advise keeping $10 in cash visible in your car. This small sum can be taken discreetly, potentially preventing the police from asking you to open your wallet or belongings for more.
Similarly, corruption extends to utility companies. It's not uncommon for employees to accept off-the-books payments to set up accounts, change ownership details, or bypass the account holder entirely. The theft of utility meters is a frequent issue, particularly in operations like illegal grow houses or informal settlements (shantytowns). In these cases, utility workers may be bribed to overlook infractions or tamper with accounts. Border and airport security are also susceptible, and given the drug trafficking routes running through Costa Rica from Colombia, money often speaks louder than regulations.
Another concern lies with notaries and certain unscrupulous lawyers who exploit the system for financial gain. For instance, some notaries have been known to file false paperwork with the national registry to facilitate the theft of property titles. One notable case involved a couple living in San José, who discovered upon returning from vacation that someone they trusted had conspired with a shady notary to transfer the title of their home. They are now embroiled in a legal battle to reclaim their property.
Additionally, corrupt lawyers can manipulate the judicial process by paying off judges or court staff to misplace documents, delay cases, or obstruct justice. Civil lawsuits are particularly vulnerable, with legitimate cases often tied up in procedural delays or dismissed altogether. It’s not uncommon for cases to drag on for years, sometimes over a decade, before reaching a conclusion.
Real estate transactions in Costa Rica also require extra caution. There is no formal licensing system for realtors and no professional body to regulate them. This lack of oversight makes it essential to conduct thorough research and work with a competent, trustworthy lawyer. A good lawyer can ensure that your title, deed, and contracts are properly registered and in order, safeguarding your investment from potential fraud or mismanagement.
Link to read about issues of corruption in Costa Rica.
Why Courtroom Corruption Has Costa Rica Concerned