Everything You Need to Know About Marchamo 2025 in Costa Rica
The "Marchamo" is the mandatory annual vehicle circulation tax in Costa Rica, collected by the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS). For 2025, it is crucial for every vehicle owner to understand the costs, deadlines, and requirements to avoid hefty fines and the seizure of license plates by transit police.
Key Dates and Deadlines
The collection period typically begins on November 1, 2024, and owners have until December 31, 2024, to pay without penalty. Starting January 1, 2025, late payments incur significant interest and daily fines.
How the Marchamo is Calculated
The total cost is a combination of several components:
- Property Tax (Hacienda): The largest portion, based on the vehicle's fiscal value.
- SOA (Compulsory Automobile Insurance): Covers medical costs in case of accidents.
- Road Safety Contribution: Funds for COSEVI.
- Municipal Taxes and Fines: Any outstanding traffic tickets will be added to your total.
Requirements for Payment
- RITEVE/Dekra: You must have a valid technical inspection sticker.
- Identification: Valid cédula or passport.
- License Plate Number: To check the amount online.
Where to Pay
You can pay at nearly all banks (BAC, BCR, BNCR), supermarkets like Perimercados, and authorized collection points across the country.
