Four steps, with a record at each one.
Before anything moves, you know the timing, the documents we need and who will hold your funds.
The four steps
- 01
Introductory call.
We learn about your transaction, your dates and the countries involved. If Zaldara is not the right fit, we tell you on the call.
- 02
Written quote.
You receive the terms, the settlement timing and the list of documents we need, in writing, before you commit to anything.
- 03
Verification.
We check identities and businesses, and review the source of funds when required.
Individuals1–3business days
Businesses3–7business days
- 04
Execution.
We carry out the transaction, confirm each step, and close with a complete compliance record you can hand to your bank.
What to have ready.
Government-issued ID for each person involved
For businesses: incorporation documents and details of the beneficial owners
A description of the transaction: amounts, currencies, dates and the other parties
When applicable, documents showing where the funds come from
Frequently asked questions.
Is Zaldara a bank?
No. Zaldara is a registered Money Services Business in the United States and operates in Costa Rica under SUGEF's Article 15 bis framework. Accounts opened through our Banking Access service are held at a bank, not with Zaldara.
Who holds my money during a transaction?
At any moment your money is with you, with Zaldara or with the recipient, and each confirmation tells you which. If a payment is put on hold, we tell you where the money is and what to do next.
How long does settlement take?
Most payments settle the same day or the next. Transfers to Costa Rican bank accounts arrive the same day or the next, and merchant payments settle the next business day. Your written quote gives the timing for your transaction.
How is my rate set?
We quote you a rate before you commit and lock it before we execute. At a merchant's counter the rate is locked for 90 seconds. Quoted rates may differ from public market prices.
Why do you ask where my money comes from?
Every transaction goes through KYC/AML checks, and larger or more complex ones need a source-of-funds review. That review is what gives you a record your bank, notary and accountant will accept.
Can you pay a seller, notary or government office in Costa Rica?
Yes. With Paymaster or the Real Estate Closing Bundle, we pay sellers, notaries and government fees in local currency from a Costa Rican account, with a confirmation each party can rely on.
Can you finance my purchase or project?
Zaldara arranges bridge financing for property closings and project financing from US$ 50,000 to US$ 10 million through a private investor network. All financing is subject to credit approval.
Do you give investment or tax advice?
No. We convert, hold, pay and document money, and we arrange financing. We work alongside your lawyer and accountant. Nothing we publish is investment, legal or tax advice.
Can I use Zaldara from anywhere in the world?
It depends on where you are. We serve clients worldwide moving money to and from Latin America, and we specialize in North America and Central America. State money-transmission licensing in the United States is in progress, and some services are only available where Zaldara is licensed or exempt. We confirm availability on the introductory call.
Can I work with you in Spanish?
Yes. Our Costa Rican team works in Spanish and English, and every document is available in both languages.
How much does it cost?
You get the exact terms in a written quote before any transaction. Account and capital services are quoted by proposal, based on your transaction, timing and the countries involved.
Tell us where your money is and where it needs to go.
In a short call we go over your transaction, your dates and the countries involved. You get a written quote before anything moves.