Marchamo 2025 Costa Rica: Essential Guide for U.S. & EU Expats
Understand what the Marchamo is, who needs to pay it, how much it costs, and why it matters for vehicle owners and foreign investors in Costa Rica.
🔎 What Is the Marchamo Tax?
The Marchamo is a mandatory annual vehicle tax required by the government of Costa Rica. It includes:
- SOA Insurance: Compulsory third-party liability coverage.
- Vehicle Property Tax: Based on the fiscal value of the vehicle.
- Additional Charges: Such as traffic fines, unpaid penalties, and municipal taxes.
👤 Who Is Required to Pay Marchamo?
- All residents and non-residents with registered vehicles in Costa Rica.
- Imported vehicles once they are officially registered.
- Cars, motorcycles, ATVs, scooters, and all motorized vehicles.
Marchamo applies regardless of nationality. Registration with COSEVI or the National Registry activates the obligation.
📅 Marchamo Deadlines & How to Pay
- Payment Period Opens: November 1, 2025
- Deadline: December 31, 2025
Delays result in automatic fines starting January 1, 2026.
You can pay your Marchamo through several official channels:
- INS Online Portal (Instituto Nacional de Seguros)
- Authorized local banks
- Certified insurance agencies
⚠️ What Happens If You’re Late?
If you fail to pay the Marchamo before the deadline, you may face:
- Daily interest on outstanding payments
- Traffic police may impound your vehicle
- Inability to renew other legal documents or vehicle permits
💵 Cost Breakdown of Marchamo
The total Marchamo cost is calculated based on:
- The fiscal value of your vehicle
- The model year and vehicle class
- Any unpaid fines or pending violations
For example, a standard sedan may pay around $300 USD, while high-end SUVs or imported luxury vehicles may pay up to $8,000 USD.
🌍 Why the Marchamo Matters for Expats & Foreign Investors
- Ensures compliance with Costa Rican traffic and fiscal laws
- Avoids future legal complications or driving restrictions
- Maintains your vehicle’s legal status for resale or import
📝 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much is Marchamo for a U.S. expat?
It depends on the fiscal value. Use the INS portal to estimate your fee.
Can I pay Marchamo from abroad?
Yes. Online payment is available via international cards on the INS website.
Do I need to pay if I don’t use the car?
Yes, the Marchamo is mandatory for all registered vehicles, regardless of use.
Is the payment transferable?
No. Marchamo is specific to each vehicle registration per year.
What if I sell my car?
The Marchamo remains valid for the new owner for the same calendar year.
Is full insurance included?
No. Only basic SOA coverage is included. Full or additional coverage is optional.