Costa Rica Inheritance and Gift Tax Guide 2026
Costa Rica does not impose inheritance tax or gift tax. Transfers of assets upon death or by gift are generally not subject to any transfer tax at the national level. However, heirs may be liable for capital gains tax if they later sell inherited assets, and property transfers may incur notarial and registration fees.
No Inheritance Tax
Costa Rica is one of the most favorable jurisdictions for inheritance planning. There is no inheritance tax (impuesto de herencia) at the national level. Assets passed to heirs through a will (testamento) or by intestate succession are not subject to any estate or inheritance tax. This applies to both residents and non-residents inheriting assets located in Costa Rica.
No Gift Tax
Similarly, Costa Rica does not impose a gift tax. Transfers of assets made during the donor's lifetime, whether cash, real estate, shares, or other property, are not subject to gift tax. This makes Costa Rica an attractive jurisdiction for wealth transfer strategies, including lifetime gifting to family members.
Costs of Estate Settlement
While there is no inheritance tax, the settlement of an estate does involve certain costs:
- Probate fees: Court costs for validating the will and appointing executors
- Notary fees: Fees for drafting inheritance deeds (escritura de posesión hereditaria)
- Property registration: Registry fees when transferring property titles to heirs
- Legal fees: Attorney fees for estate administration
Capital Gains for Heirs
When heirs inherit assets and later sell them, they may be subject to capital gains tax at 15% on the appreciation from the date of inheritance to the date of sale. The cost basis for the heir is the fair market value of the asset at the date of death. Proper valuation documentation is important to establish the basis.