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Notarial Services in Costa Rica

As a Public Notary with over 30 years of practice, I authorize public deeds, process filings with the National Registry, and guide individuals and businesses through every act that requires notarial faith. My commitment is technical clarity, strict formalities, and full respect for the client.

What this service includes

  • Real estate and vehicle purchase deeds
  • Creation, cancellation, and modification of mortgages
  • Authentication of signatures and copies
  • General, special, and "generalísimo" powers of attorney
  • Protocolization of minutes and private documents
  • Matrimonial agreements and separation of assets
  • Incorporation, mergers, and dissolution of commercial companies
  • Open wills granted before a notary
  • Filings with the Real Estate and Commercial sections of the National Registry

How a notarial act is processed

  1. 01

    Consultation and document review

    I receive the documents, verify registry title, the cadastral plan, and the applicable tax and municipal requirements.

  2. 02

    Registry study and draft

    I run the National Registry study, draft the deed, and explain every clause before signing.

  3. 03

    Appearance and signing

    Parties appear at the notary office — or at an agreed location — to sign the original. Certified copies (testimonios) are then issued.

  4. 04

    Filing and registration

    I file the testimonio with the National Registry, follow up on the daily journal and final registration, and keep you informed at every stage.

Documents commonly required

  • Valid ID of all parties (or residency card / passport)
  • Marital status and, if applicable, matrimonial agreements
  • Cadastral plan of the property where applicable
  • National Registry ownership certificate
  • Current municipal and land tax receipts
  • Valid corporate certifications when a company is a party

FAQ

Notarial fees in Costa Rica are regulated by tariff. The exact amount depends on the act, the value of the asset, and the applicable taxes and registry fees. In the initial consultation I provide a written estimate before starting the procedure.

Once the testimonio is filed, the ordinary registration timeline at the Real Estate Registry is typically 15 to 30 business days, depending on the registry workload and absence of defects. For commercial companies, timelines are similar.

Yes. There are two paths: granting the power before the nearest Costa Rican Embassy or Consulate, or before a foreign notary with apostille. In both cases, the document must be protocolized in Costa Rica to take full effect.

No. Parties may freely choose the Public Notary they trust. When a financial institution participates, it may suggest a notary, but the final choice belongs to the parties.

Contact

Need to formalize a notarial act?

I will walk you through the requirements, timelines, and costs before any procedure begins.