New rules for duty-free shopping in Golfito?

[MICHEAL LEVINE]

Apparently the rules for shopping duty free in Golfito (Deposito Libre) have changed. The reverse side of the Tarjeta you get from Customs states that you have the right to buy $1000 each 6 months. But the front of the document states that it authorizes purchases of ¢1.704.800,00 (US$3013) over the 12 month calendar year.

But what is not clear to me is what limits are imposed on various types of commodities (one refrigerator per year, 24 bottles of wine per semester, etc.). Have these limits changed with the new rules? Is there a CR government web site where they are clearly spelled out?

[Jackie Minchillo]

Hi Micheal,

I have not had any personal experience with shopping in Golfito. I was able to find this website with a little information regarding the process and allowances: http://www.golfito.info/golfito/dutyfreeshoppingingolfito.html The website does not indicate when it was last updated, but does provide some contact information – I might suggest reaching out, since Walter is in the area he may be able to offer some information regarding any recent changes: http://www.golfito.info/golfito/contact.html.

I have also shared this question with our legal expert and shipping broker – if either of them have specific information that will be helpful to you with regard to this question I will share it with you as soon as I have it.

Here is what the Costa Rican embassy has to say about items considered duty free: http://www.costarica-embassy.org/index.php?q=node/111

And this is a helpful resource for import regulations beyond duty free: http://costaricalaw.com/costa-rica-legal-topics/customs-and-trade/costa-rica-import-duties-and-tariffs/

-Jackie

[Jackie Minchillo]

Hi Micheal,

Our International Living legal expert Roger Petersen also suggests visiting http://depositodegolfito.com/ to view all requirements with relation to Golfito.

Jackie

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