Are you planning to undergo a medical procedure or a wellness trip to Costa Rica? Nice decision! Costa Rica is a popular destination for medical tourists, where you can get high-quality medical treatment at affordable rates.
But, as an international patient, you should consider the local tax system to avoid any unexpected expenditures. In this article, you’ll find the most important information about Costa Rica medical tourism taxes and their influence on your journey.
Understanding the tourist tax in Costa Rica
Every tourist in Costa Rica is obliged to pay a tourist tax, which is usually catered to in the plane ticket price if one is arriving by air. This tax is meant to support the country’s tourism and environmental management.
The Costa Rica tourist tax is modest when compared to other popular destinations. That said, you should be prepared for this expenditure even when writing a budget for your medical tourism costs.
Are medical tourism tax deductible?
One of the most common questions asked is whether medical tourism expenses are tax deductible. Some of the medical tourism tax-deductible expenses for US citizens include lodging and certain medical procedures, excluding cosmetic procedures that do not aim to help with disability.
Eligibility for tax deduction: In various territories, medical costs that are borne outside the country can be tax-deductible. However, this is only the case in some places since different countries have different laws. Consultation with a tax advisor or accountant is essential to ascertain if your medical tourism expenses qualify for deductions.
Documentation: These should be the invoices and records of all medical expenses. Further, documentation in Costa Rica will be needed to prove your claims convincingly.
Costa Rica medical tourism taxes
The tourist tax is a compulsory tax to be paid by tourist visitors in the country. Typically, it involves the following fees:
- Value Added Tax (VAT): Costa Rica VAT of 13% is imposed on almost all goods and services, including medical services. Taxes are usually included in medical procedures and treatment prices. Ensure that the medical services you are getting show this tax in the quoted amount.
- Medical Service Tax: Some specialized medical services might be charged at different tax rates than others. It’s necessary to confirm with your healthcare provider if any additional taxes are applicable to your treatments.
Tax reimbursements and refunds
Unlike the refund or tax relief your home state might grant on your medical expenses, Costa Rica never offers any tax refund.
However, occasionally, you might be eligible for reimbursement of your medical expenses in your home country, assuming you send your claims to the tax department or health insurance companies at home.
Planning and managing costs
Here are some suggestions to efficiently plan your medical tourism-related expenditures:
- Budget: Consider working the tourist tax and the medical service taxes into your total. Having this figured out beforehand can prevent you from being surprised by them. When they come due, you will know they were accounted for.
- Consult your healthcare provider: Before you travel, give you the total bill of the services provided, as for taxes, is it applicable in their list that will give you more savings.
- Keep tabs on your info: Always be alert for any tax law or travel alert changes before you finalize your trip.
Heal CR is your proven advisor
Heal CR is an informational site for medical tourists to Costa Rica that connects you with the best local doctors, dentists, and medical facilities at great costaleño prices, all backed by complete concierge assistance that can make your trip foolproof.
With Heal CR, not only can you book an appointment with top doctors and get information about prices and taxes, as well as assistance with planning your medical trip, but we also offer ongoing support to help you concentrate exclusively on your health and wellness!
