The government of Costa Rica has recently adopted a legislative amendment that has been enthusiastically welcomed by the expat community in this country of Central America.
This revision of Article 91 of Law 9078, which concerns Traffic on Public Roads and Road Safety, significantly simplifies the process of validating driver’s licenses for foreigners.
From now on, as soon as a temporary residence application is initiated, expatriates can legalize their foreign driver’s license.
Previously, they had to perform «Border Runs» — regular trips to the borders to renew the validity of their international driving permit — until their official residency status was granted. This new rule also eliminates the requirement to wait 91 consecutive days before being able to validate a license.
Here are the criteria for the new regulation concerning faster validation of your driver’s license in Costa Rica:
- The foreign driver’s license must be valid.
- The license must meet the specified standards by law for the category and type of vehicle.
- The driver must prove that they have legal migratory status or that an application is underway, in accordance with current legislation.
However, it is important to note that individuals who do not initiate the official validation process must continue to periodically renew their legal driving status through border exits out of the country every 180 days.
Immigration experts strongly recommend starting the driver’s license validation process as soon as possible to avoid these inconveniences or legal issues.
«Being able to validate your driver’s license from the beginning of the residence process is a significant advantage. It greatly facilitates the transition to a new life in Costa Rica, allowing us to move freely and integrate more quickly into the community. It’s a clear sign that Costa Rica values and supports expatriates in their adaptation.»
– Louis-Pierre Roberge, expat in Ojochal, Costa Rica
According to Marcela Gurdian, an immigration lawyer, this change makes settling in Costa Rica easier than ever. These improvements reinforce Costa Rica’s welcoming image and encourage more foreigners to consider this country as their new home.
It is remembered that the government of Costa Rica has recently extended the maximum legal duration of stay for tourists to 180 days, compared to only 90 before, thus facilitating a smoother transition for newcomers and the stays of tourists enchanted by the splendors of Costa Rica. Read the full article in Mag506.com on the subject.
In conclusion, the amendments to the driving license legislation in Costa Rica represent significant progress for the expatriate community. By simplifying and speeding up the process of validating foreign driver’s licenses, Costa Rica demonstrates its commitment to creating a welcoming and convenient environment for those who choose to settle there.
These changes not only improve mobility but also facilitate integration and strengthen the sense of belonging among expatriates. This confirms Costa Rica’s reputation as a top destination for foreigners seeking a new home, while highlighting the importance of welcoming and supporting newcomers.
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