Costa Rica Immigration

Applying for Residency in Costa Rica

Immigration to Costa Rica has increased in the last decades. It is no secret that Costa Rica is one of the success stories of Latin America, as the oldest and most stable democracy in the subcontinent you can imagine why. Costa Rica offers the political and economic stability of a developed nation with the opportunities that you can only find in a developing country.

Please take a look at the main types of Costa Rica residency options available:

Foreigners must prove they have enough money set aside so that they will not depend on public assistance once they become residents of Costa Rica.

     1. Rentista (Rentier) Residency:

Rentista residency is granted to foreigners who receive a monthly income from a foreign source.

Main criteria: immigrants must demonstrate a minimum stable monthly rent of US $2500.00 for a period of at least 2 years.

     2. Pensionado (Retiree) Residency:

Pensionado residency is granted to foreigners who receive a monthly pension from a foreign government or an international organization.

Main criteria: foreigners must receive a minimum lifetime pension of at least US$1000.00.

     3. Investors Residency:

Inversionista residency is granted to foreigners who make an investment in Costa Rica.

Main criteria: expats must invest a minimum amount of US $200,000.00 in a Costa Rican asset.

Common Costa Rica immigration requirements for most residencies:

• Police Record (criminal background check)
• Birth Certificate
• Marriage License if applicable

Note: All foreign person documents should be properly legalized or have the Apostille.

Estimated Duration for most residencies: 4 to 6 months.

If you don’t believe to be eligible under the aforementioned categories, please contact our Immigration Lawyers to study other options, according to Costa Rican Immigration Law, such as:

• Work Permit or Work Visa
• Self Employed Visa
• Visa for Costa Rican Relatives
• Visa for Company Executive or Manager