www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I am travelling to SJO on Oct 5 and am going to bring my laptop with me. I have never traveled outside the US with my laptop and am wondering how to ensure not having to pay tax. Do I just declare it like I have with other electronics, i.e. cameras, iPods and such?

Since the Hotel Presidente has free internet access, I thought I would bring it and stay in-touch without having to go to an internet cafe. Maybe even keep on top of CRT happenings.

The only time that I would declare a laptop would be if it was brand new sealed for re-sale. You don't need to declare anything that is used, as far as I know. I never have myself.

I think you only need to declare items your going to resell.

Don't declare your laptop. I travel with it for business all over the world and have NEVER declared my laptop. CR is no exception.

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http://TipsCostaRica.com for pratical advice on living in Costa Rica.
In order to write about life, first you must live it! - E. Hemingway.

I never declare anything and always breeze right through customs. Just be polite and keep the smile on your face. That's not hard because you have arrived in paradise.....

Here is a link to the "current" (9/06) customs declaration INFO for Costa Rica. This is the English part of the back side of the form explaining the basic rules.

http://www.fastest.net/cr/customscr.jpg


Madhatter

A laptop computer is considered a portable device and is allowed to be brought into the country without declaring it. It makes no difference whether it is a used 5 year old model with a value of $100.00 or a brand new top of the line model with all the bells a whistles just purchased for $2500.00. The key is it must be for your personal use not for resale.

I know many who have brought them into the country. I also know many who have brought desk top computers through customs without a question being asked.

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Pura Vida
Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four
essential food groups:
alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
Alex Levine

I've never declared anything when coming into CR.