Can I get a cell phone in Costa Rica?

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Because of ICE policy, cell phones are currently restricted to Costa Ricans and legal residents of Costa Rica.  This is likely to change once private operators are selling cell phone lines.  One common way around this is to form a company to hold a line, however many lawyers charge $500 or more for corporations or limited companies.  Another possibility is to have a Costa Rican apply for the line and hold a power of attorney, however they would be ultimately liable for charges to the line, so this is a delicate situation.

If you are travelling in Costa Rica and not living here, you can investigate international roaming with your US cell number.  Charges may not be outrageous with your plan, and with VOIP it is not expensive for others to call a phone in the US. Cell phone rentals are available from rent-a-car companies and at hotels, the rate is around $10 per day.

A new possibility is the ICE phone chips, if your phone is unlocked.  Or you could purchase a phone here or on the Internet for use here.  CELL Service

The prepaid card is good for up to 60 days and works on GSM telephones.  You choose between 3 plans, the difference is the amount of the recharge, basically $5, $10 and $20 increments.  The per minute rate is about 8 cents maximum, if you get the 60 day card about 5 to 7 cents per minute.  (28 - 34 colones)  Here are the specs for what the phone needs:

Verify model is compatible:  LIST OF VERIFIED MODELS FROM ICE
Basic Specifications

• SIM card voltage 3-5 volts.
• GSM compatible Phone with Phase 2 plus.
• SIM Toolkit (STK) apps support.
• 1800MHz Band
• Permits ADN, FDN, SDN cards
• Unblocked Phone (without SIM Lock)

For advanced phones:

• Wap 1.2 or 2.0, or GPRS 4:1
• Triband (900/1800/1900 MHz)

If not a new phone verify:

• Not reported as stolen or lost.
• Good working order.
• Ask for the receipt