Retiring in Costa Rica with HIV

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Member since 05 December 2015

dannpalmer6771New member03 September 2016 22:47:01

There are probably not that many people with this issue: how can I retire in Costa Rica being HIV+?

I had thought about Belize until I learned how much they do not like gay people there. So, that idea is gone. Want to live overseas as my Social Security and retirement income would go fUrther.

I was told to check out Costa Rica and the Caribbean Coast is appealing. I believe that I would want to "buy into" the national medical plan ? no private insurers will cover me(learned the hard way). Any directions to a good source is appreciated.

Sample questions: Do I need to become a Costa Rican citizen to participate ? How does one get an idea of the cost for medical and drug coverage? Does one pay a Costa Rican income tax if using the national healthcare system?

Thank you
Dan
Chicago

TerrynViv Serial expat

Member since 21 October 2011

TerrynVivSerial expat03 September 2016 23:46:49

648

This is a very vague question and it is plain that you are just starting. (no offense intended) You need to do MUCH more research before you are asking the questions that you are. You are talking about "buy into" (no such thing). Citizenship will take many, many years. I don't think anyone can answer your questions until you do some more basic research.
Your answers to your questions to your last paragraph can be found on line.
Best of luck in your endeavors!

pebs Serial expat

Member since 05 December 2015

pebsSerial expat04 September 2016 01:12:49

349

I am not able to give you much positive information but I do wish you luck in all you endeavor but please do LOTS of research before taking the plunge... You may try to contact online a gay group who would probably have a lot of information for you
Good Luck

kohlerias ViP

Member since 05 September 2013

kohleriasViP04 September 2016 18:44:57

1572

Residency requirements can be found here

It could take a year or more to gain residency and during this time you won't be able to sign up and use the CAJA, the socialized and mandatory healthcare system and as you mentioned. most private insurance companies won't accept pre-existing conditions, so you will have to pay over the counter and/or use private facilities until you have a cedula, in hand. Not all meds are provided or available here and those from elsewhere can't be shipped by mail or courier companies. Due to long wait time for specialist appointments or surgeries, most expats choose to use both CAJA and the private facilities.

Your premium for CAHA will depend on your 'guaranteed for life pension' amount.
Being HIV+ could make it more difficult for you, rather than 'just being gay'.

Visit first, and see for yourself if Costa Rica will suit you. This is advisable for anyone who is considering moving here...

dannpalmer6771 New member

Member since 05 December 2015

dannpalmer6771New member04 September 2016 18:50:22

Extremely helpful! I am grateful for the thoughtful advice provided. Your response was what I was hoping to receive.
Making plans to visit next year.

BamBamSeekingPeaceOf Pie Member

Member since 09 July 2018

BamBamSeekingPeaceOf PieMember09 July 2018 17:22:21

I would love it you could share your research with me

TerrynViv Serial expat

Member since 21 October 2011

TerrynVivSerial expat09 July 2018 18:24:37

648

Just an FYI - the previous posts were over 2 years old. The member may possibly not still be active.

aschultz50 Member

Member since 05 March 2018

aschultz50Member23 August 2018 03:04:37

I heard that the newer meds like Genvoya and Atripla are not available thus preventing me from emigrating there. Has anybody heard anything different"? and are they available from the National Health system that I understand you can 'buy' into.

kohlerias ViP

Member since 05 September 2013

kohleriasViP23 August 2018 12:22:41

1572

You can only affiliate with CAJA, the socialized healthcare system if you are a legal resident of Costa Rica. This can take a year or more, in the meantime you will have to purchase your meds 'over the counter'. I have no idea whether they are available here, and even if they are 'in the country' CAJA may not supply them.

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