Costa Rica Health Insurance

Located in Central America, Costa Rica lies in between both Nicaragua, to the north, and Panama, to the south. Originally explored by the Spanish in the 16th century, initial attempts to colonize the land were unsuccessful as a number of factors including diseases in mosquito infested swamps, native raids on settlers, brutal heat and constant pirate raids. It was not until 1563 that a permanent settlement of Cartago was established in the cooler, fertile central highlands.

The area remained a colony for some two and a half centuries, until in 1821, Costa Rica, jointly became, one of several Central American provinces to gain independence from Spain. Two years later it joined the United Provinces of Central America but this federation collapsed in 1838, at which time Costa Rica claimed its independence from the rest of the states. Since the 19th century only two violent incidents have stalled the countries economic and democratic development. Although the main industry is still primarily the agriculture industry, the technology and tourism industries have grown significantly, and are still growing further.

Feeling comfortable in the knowledge that if something was to happen to a family member their medical costs will be taken care of, is important to us all. Our expert consultants can advise on the most suitable level of coverage for families, individuals, groups, travelers, and teachers expatriate health insurance.

Expatriate Health Insurance Costa Rica

Pacific Prime is an expatriate insurance broker specialising in providing overseas medical insurance for Costa Rica nationals living, working or holidaying abroad. If you are a non Costa Rica national and moving to Costa Rica we can also provide plans that meet your specific requirements.

Professional Service you can trust

Pacific Prime Insurance will be with you for the duration of your policy. We offer additional customer services that include claims advice, emergency contact numbers and medical advice lines. We also maintain a comprehensive list of Costa Rica hospitals/doctors. Most of our clients are expatriates so we maintain a list of Embassies in Costa Rica.

As a leading broker of medical insurance in Costa Rica we keep up on the latest insurance trends and Costa Rica Insurance News.

We can offer expatriates in Costa Rica dedicated international health insurance plans that will provide comprehensive coverage in the East and around the world. Plans that we can offer will usually have a number of benefits that a policyholder is able to tailor to suit their specific requirements. With coverage options including out-patient, dental, maternity, and emergency evacuation, you will be assured of receiving the highest levels of quality treatment anywhere in the world.

Costa Rica Travel Tips

Whenever you travel overseas it is often useful to understand the local laws and customs in the destination country, as they can often be very different to your own. The legal system, based off the Spanish module, is very similar to that of many western countries, and therefore is very straightforward. However there are cultural and social differences worth noting so as to avoid potential trouble. As such we have provided some Costa Rican travel advice so that you may stay safe and better enjoy your travels, throughout Costa Rica,

Please be advised that the information contained on this page is not fully comprehensive and may be liable to change without prior warning; as such you should consult a travel expert or your local embassy prior to departing on your journey.

• The threat from terrorism is quite low. However, it should be noted that there is the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which target public areas those frequented by foreigners.
• It should be noted that violent crimes against foreigners are on the increase due to the unemployment brought on by the financial crisis. Opportunistic theft of personal belongings, passports and travel documents is the main problem. However, there has also been an increase in incidents of violent crime against tourists. Gang muggings and armed robberies can occur even in daylight on busy streets.
• It is advised that to avoid muggings you, avoid carrying large amounts of cash on you at any given time, avoid street currency exchange vendors and locking valuables in a safe you have control of at all times.
• When traveling on public buses keep an eye on your luggage at all times. Luggage theft is an increasing problem in Costa Rica that is carried out efficiently. Thieves have simple ways but effective ways of distracting targets.
• When going out, avoid leavings drinks unattended. Tourists drink spiking has increased in recent years, and has lead to many subsequent rape and theft.
• There has been an increase in the number of short-term and opportunistic kidnapping, called "express kidnapping", occurring in Costa Rica. Victims are normally selected at random and are forced at gunpoint to withdraw money from ATMs. Once the ransom is paid the victim is usually quickly released.
• If you are planning on visiting jungle areas you should be accompanied by experienced local guides.
• Road conditions are generally good on main routes, although potholes caused by heavy rains in the wet season are common. Landslides in the wet season, which block the road between San Jose and Guapiles on the way to Limon are frequent and can cause delays. However, they are cleared away quickly and there are longer alternative routes.
• Drivers should be cautious when approaching bridges as these are often only one-way, even if the road appears to be two-way.
• The standard of driving is lower than in most parts of the western world. Accidents in Costa Rica are often caused by speeding or overtaking irresponsibly. You should resist the temptation to overtake without clear visibility and adhere to speed limits, as traffic police are strict.
• If you have a collision when driving a car you must not move the vehicle, not even to the side of the road, until the traffic police have come to inspect it. The Traffic Police (Transito) and the Insurance Investigator (INS) must come to the scene of the accident to complete accident reports.
• All visitors coming into Costa Rica arriving from any of the following countries (Colombia, Brazil, Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, French Guyana, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Cameroon, Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Gambia and Sudan) are now required to produce an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis documenting yellow fever vaccination before entry to Costa Rica will be granted. Certificates are valid 10 days after the date of vaccination.

For more information about traveling to Costa Rica, international health insurance plans that we can offer there, or to receive a free customized quote, please contact one of our dedicated advisors today.