Costa Rica Residency Requirements & Programs in 2024

Why Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a standout destination for those looking to combine business opportunities with a high quality of life in a stable and safe environment. The country offers a business-friendly landscape and a favorable tax regime, making it appealing for investors and entrepreneurs. Costa Rica provides a streamlined path to residency, allowing applicants to obtain resident status within 9 to 12 months. For those from Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish countries, citizenship is possible after just 5 years of residency, while other applicants can qualify in 7 years.

Beyond its economic appeal, Costa Rica is celebrated for its natural beauty and vibrant lifestyle. Known for its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife, the country is a top destination for tourism and relocation. San José, the bustling capital located in the Central Valley, is one of Latin America's most cosmopolitan cities, featuring a dynamic mix of museums, theaters, historic architecture, and modern amenities. Costa Rica is also a global leader in environmental sustainability, boasting progressive renewable energy initiatives and a strong commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity, which attracts nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Strategically located between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica serves as a key trade hub in Central America, with excellent connections to the USA and attractive free trade zone incentives. It boasts one of the most stable and democratic governments in the region, with the oldest continuous democracy in Latin America and a strong dedication to human rights. This stability, combined with its thriving real estate market and diverse living environments, makes Costa Rica a popular choice for everyone from retirees and expats to young digital nomads seeking a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle. 

Benefits of Costa Rica Residency

With paths to citizenship and visa-free travel to over 150 countries, it is an attractive option for those looking at a balanced lifestyle in a strategic location. The benefits of Costa Rica residency include:

Travel Accessibility

Costa Rica is well-connected internationally through four airports, including Juan Santamaría International Airport, which offers flights to Europe and the U.S. In addition, the country has many local airports, some of which cater to private jets. Traveling from one coast to the other only takes about three hours by car on well-maintained roads.

Path to Citizenship

While Costa Rica does not provide citizenship by investment, you can apply for naturalization after 7 years of residency, but this requires spending more than 183 days in the country each year. For citizens of Central American and Spanish-speaking countries, the residency period before applying for citizenship is reduced to 5 years. 

Travel Opportunities

Should you obtain citizenship, a Costa Rican passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to various countries and territories, including key destinations in Europe, the Americas, Asia, Oceania, and Africa. Notable countries include France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Japan, and New Zealand, positioning the Costa Rican passport as one of the strongest in Central America. 

Good Education

Costa Rica also places a strong emphasis on education, offering free schooling for all children. Dependent children of residents are legally required to attend school, and the country boasts one of the highest literacy rates in Latin America, with a literacy rate of over 97%. Moreover, Costa Rica is home to several prestigious international schools that follow various global curricula, providing quality education for expatriates. These include The British School of Costa Rica, Lincoln School, Pan-American School, Blue Valley School, Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA). 

Healthcare

Residents must participate in the national healthcare system, the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS). The system offers comprehensive healthcare coverage to all legal residents, ensuring access to both primary and specialized medical services, hospitalization, and social security benefits. On average, Costa Rica spends around 9.3% of its GDP on healthcare, higher than the regional average of 6.6%, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining a robust healthcare infrastructure.

Additional Advantages 

Costa Rica has a business-friendly environment, strategic trade location, and favorable tax regime, characterized by a territorial tax system. Residency allows you to include family members such as a spouse, children under 18, and dependent adult children under 25, while also recognizing same-sex marriages for residency purposes.

Costa Rica Residence Permit

Navigating the residency options in Costa Rica can be a rewarding journey, whether you are looking to retire, invest, or simply enjoy the vibrant culture. Here we would like to outline the three main residency pathways: temporary residence permits, permanent residency, and citizenship by naturalization, providing you with essential information to make informed decisions.

Temporary Residence Permit

The temporary residence permit is designed for individuals seeking to live in Costa Rica for a limited period while fulfilling specific criteria. Temporary residency allows you to stay in Costa Rica for up to 2 years. During this time, you can experience the local culture, establish connections, and explore potential long-term living options.

Costa Rica’s temporary residence permits cater to different lifestyles and financial situations. Options include the Pensionado Visa for retirees, the Rentista Visa for those with steady passive income or savings, the Investor Visa for individuals investing in the country’s economy, the Marriage Visa for spouses of Costa Rican citizens, the Work Visa for specific employment, the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, etc. 

These permits can also pave the way for permanent residency if you decide to make Costa Rica your long-term home.

Temporary Residence Requirements

To obtain a temporary residence permit, applicants must meet specific criteria depending on the category they choose. Each type of permit has its own set of requirements, aimed at ensuring that individuals can sustain themselves while living in Costa Rica. Below are the general requirements that apply across most categories:

1. Valid Passport:
   • The passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of the application.
   • Provide copies of all pages of the passport, including any visa stamps and personal data.
2. Application Form:
   • Complete the official residency application form provided by the Costa Rican immigration office. 
   • Make sure the form is filled out accurately and signed.
3. Proof of Legal Entry:
   • You need to provide a copy of your entry stamp to Costa Rica from your passport. This stamp shows that you entered the country legally as a tourist or on a short-term visa.
4. Proof of Financial Solvency:
   • Depending on the category under which you apply, you must provide documents showing sufficient financial means to support yourself while living in Costa Rica. This could include:
   • Bank statements.
   • Proof of regular income, investments, or pension.
   • The amount of income or savings required depends on the residency category, such as investor, rentista, or pensionado.
5. Criminal Background Check:
   • A police clearance certificate from your home country or any country where you have lived for the past three years.
   • The document must be no more than six months old, apostilled, or legalized, and translated into Spanish by a certified translator.
   • This shows you do not have a criminal record and are eligible for residency.
6. Birth Certificate:
   • A certified copy of your birth certificate is required for identification and proof of age.
   • The document should be apostilled or legalized in the country of origin and translated into Spanish.
7. Marriage Certificate (if applicable):
   • If applying based on a spouse’s residency or citizenship, you need a certified marriage certificate, apostilled or legalized, and translated into Spanish.
8. Proof of Local Address:
   • You need to provide evidence of your residence within Costa Rica, such as a rental agreement, property ownership, or utility bills, to show your physical presence in the country.
9. Health Insurance or Medical Certificate:
   • Some categories require proof of enrollment in Costa Rica’s national health insurance system (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social or "Caja").
   • You may also be required to submit a medical certificate from a Costa Rican licensed doctor showing that you are in good health and free from contagious diseases.

Temporary residence permits can be renewed as long as you continue to meet the qualifying criteria. However, it is important to note that temporary residents typically do not have the right to work without obtaining an additional work permit.

Permanent Residence Permit

After holding a temporary residence permit for at least 3 years, you may qualify for a permanent residence permit. This status provides greater stability and allows you to work for a Costa Rican employer without needing further permits.

Permanent Residence Requirements

To obtain a permanent residence permit, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

• Duration of Temporary Residency. You must have held a temporary residence permit for at least 3 years. This period allows you to demonstrate your commitment to living in Costa Rica and your ability to support yourself.
• Renewal. Permanent residency must be renewed every 5 years. This process ensures that you remain compliant with Costa Rican immigration laws and continue to meet the necessary criteria for residency.
• Individual Status. The permanent residence permit is granted on an individual basis and does not extend to dependents. Each family member wishing to reside in Costa Rica must apply for their own residence permit.
• Eligibility through Family. Foreigners with first-degree relatives (spouses or children) who are Costa Rican citizens can apply for permanent residency without needing to fulfill the 3-year residency requirement. This provision facilitates family unity and allows close relatives to live together in Costa Rica more easily.
• Financial Stability. While specific financial requirements may vary, applicants should generally demonstrate that they can support themselves financially during their stay in the country. This may include proof of income, savings, or other financial resources.

After 7 years of legal residence in Costa Rica (either temporary or permanent), you can apply for citizenship through naturalization, which grants you the right to a Costa Rican passport. For a citizenship application, you need to follow such requirements: 

• Proficiency in spoken and written Spanish.
• Passing a test on Costa Rican history and values.
• Provide 2 witnesses who can attest to your character and livelihood.

Costa Rica Residency Programs

Costa Rica offers different residency programs for retirees, remote workers, and investors who want to live in the country. Each program has its own rules and requirements, so it's important to know which one is the best fit for you. Here we give you a simple overview of the main residency options, including who can apply and what is needed to qualify. Please, see the table below. 

How to Get a Residency in Costa Rica?

The Costa Rica residency process involves several steps, starting with applying for a provisional visa at a Costa Rican consulate and concluding with the residency permit application once you arrive in the country. 

Step 1. Apply for a Provisional Visa

• Where to Apply: You must apply for a provisional visa at the nearest Costa Rican consulate in your country. If there is no Costa Rican consulate where you live, you can apply at the nearest one to your location.
• How to Apply: The application process is similar to that of a regular visa. You will need to gather the required documents (see Step 5 for more details). Once submitted, the consulate will review your application, and they may request additional documents or ask you to attend an interview.
• Timeline: Once your provisional visa is approved, you must travel to Costa Rica within 60 days to complete the residency application process.

Step 2. Contact the Costa Rican Consulate

• Why Contact the Consulate: Each Costa Rican consulate may have slightly different requirements and procedures for issuing provisional visas, so it is important to contact them before starting your application. This ensures you have the correct information regarding what documents are needed and the specific steps to follow.
• Important Note: Even if you are from a country that normally does not require a visa to enter Costa Rica for short stays, you must still register with a Costa Rican consulate before applying for a residence permit. This is an important step to ensure eligibility for residency.

Step 3. Travel to Costa Rica

After your provisional visa is approved, you must travel to Costa Rica. If you do not enter Costa Rica during the established timeframe, you may need to start the process again. You should make sure to bring all the necessary documents with you when you travel to Costa Rica. 

Step 4. Register Your Fingerprints

Once in Costa Rica, you must visit the Ministry of Public Security (Ministerio Seguridad Pública) located in San José to register your fingerprints. Registering your fingerprints is a required step before you can apply for a residence permit. It is a part of the security check process, ensuring that you are cleared to apply for legal residency.

Step 5. Apply for the Residence Permit

• Where to Apply: Go to the Costa Rican Department of Immigration (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería) to submit your application for a residence permit.
• What Documents You Need: Before traveling to Costa Rica, ensure you have gathered and prepared the following documents:
  • Legalized Documents: All documents (such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or proof of income) must be legalized. You can do this through an Apostille stamp (if your country is a member of the Apostille Convention) or by getting them legalized at the Costa Rican consulate in your country.
  • Translated Documents: Any documents that are not in Spanish must be translated by an official translator. You need to ensure the translations are accurate and done by a certified translator in Costa Rica to avoid delays in processing.
• Consider Hiring a Lawyer: While not required, hiring an immigration expert can be very helpful, particularly if you are not fluent in Spanish. Golden Harbors can assist you in navigating the application process, ensuring all your documents are in order, and dealing with any bureaucratic challenges that may arise.

Step 6. Pay the Required Fees

• Residence Permit Fee: You will need to pay a $50 fee to process your residence permit.
• Visa to Residency Conversion Fee: Additionally, you must pay $200 to convert your provisional visa into residency.

Extra Suggestions 

• Preparation Before You Travel: It is highly recommended to have all documents legalized and translated before traveling to Costa Rica. Doing this in advance can save you time and prevent delays during the residency process.
• Timely Application: Once you are in Costa Rica, make sure to submit your residency application as soon as possible. Do not wait until your provisional visa is about to expire.

By following these steps and preparing in advance, you can streamline the process of obtaining residency in Costa Rica and avoid common obstacles.

FAQ

How Long Can You Live in Costa Rica Without Residency?

In Costa Rica, you can stay as a tourist for up to 90 days without residency, provided you enter with a valid passport. After this period, you must leave the country. You can re-enter, but your total time in Costa Rica as a tourist should not exceed 180 days in a calendar year. If you plan to stay longer, you should consider applying for residency or a different visa type.

How Long Does it Take to Get Residency in Costa Rica?

The time it takes to obtain residency in Costa Rica varies by category but generally ranges from 6 months to over a year. For the Pensionado (retired persons) and Rentista (stable income) categories, the process typically takes about 6 to 12 months. Investor residency can take longer, often exceeding 12 months, depending on the complexity of the investment. 

How Much Does it Cost to Apply for Residency in Costa Rica?

The cost to apply for residency in Costa Rica varies by type but generally ranges from USD 250 to USD 400 for Pensionado and Rentista applications, along with additional expenses for document translation and notarization. For Investor Residency, the application fee is similar, but you will also need to meet a minimum investment requirement, typically starting at USD 150,000. If you hire an attorney, their fees can range from USD 2,000 to USD 5,000, depending on the complexity of your case. 

What Is the Easiest Way to Get a Costa Rica Residency?

The easiest way to obtain Costa Rica residency is often through the Pensionado (retiree) or Rentista (stable income) options. The Pensionado requires proof of a monthly income of at least USD 1,000 from a pension or retirement source, while the Rentista option necessitates proof of a passive income of at least USD 2,500 per month for two years or a deposit of USD 60,000 in a Costa Rican bank. Both processes involve submitting specific documentation, and working with a legal professional familiar with residency applications can help streamline the process.

What Are Other Popular Residency Options in Latin America?

Some of the top alternatives to Costa Rica residency in South and Latin America include Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia.

In Chile, there’s a flexible residency option that doesn’t require a minimum income, but applicants must have a local address and show proof of a passive income of at least USD 1,500 per month. Foreigners can obtain a residence permit valid for two years, and after five years, they can apply for citizenship.

Argentina requires foreigners to demonstrate a monthly income of at least USD 2,000 and either purchase or rent a home to qualify for residency. The initial residence permit is valid for one year, and after two years of living in the country, residents can apply for Argentine citizenship.

Paraguay is known for its straightforward and affordable residency process. Applicants can achieve permanent residency by investing approximately USD 70,000 in a local business or creating five jobs for locals. Residency is granted immediately, with the possibility of applying for citizenship after three years.

In Colombia, various residency options are available, including the Rentista Visa for individuals with stable, non-employment income, typically requiring around USD 1,200 per month. Residency permits are usually issued for one to three years, and individuals can apply for citizenship after ten years of residency.