Residency Requirements in Costa Rica

Costa Rica Residency Requirements and Expat Options

Overview

Costa Rica offers several residency options for expatriates, each designed to accommodate different needs and lifestyles. Whether you are a retiree, investor, or someone looking to live in Costa Rica long-term, understanding the residency requirements and options is crucial for a smooth transition. Here’s a detailed guide to the various residency categories and their specific requirements.

1. Pensionado (Retiree) Residency

Eligibility:

This option is ideal for retirees who receive a steady pension or retirement income from abroad.

Requirements:

• Income: Proof of a monthly pension income of at least $1,000 from a government institution or private entity.
• Renewal: Pensionado residency must be renewed every two years.
• Stay Requirements: Must reside in Costa Rica for at least four months per year.
• Benefits: Pensionado residents are allowed to import household goods and one vehicle duty-free.

Application Process:

1. Gather required documents, including proof of pension, police clearance certificate, birth certificate, and passport copies.
2. Submit the application to the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME) with translations and notarizations as needed.
3. Await approval, which can take several months.

2. Rentista Residency

Eligibility:

Suitable for individuals who can demonstrate a steady income from investments, savings, or other sources not derived from employment.

Requirements:

• Income: Proof of a monthly unearned income of at least $2,500 for a minimum of two years or a $60,000 deposit in a Costa Rican bank.
• Renewal: Rentista residency must be renewed every two years.
• Stay Requirements: Must reside in Costa Rica for at least four months per year.
• Benefits: Similar to the Pensionado category, Rentista residents can import household goods and one vehicle duty-free.

Application Process:

1. Provide documentation of income or bank deposit.
2. Submit the application along with required documents to the DGME.
3. Await approval and maintain income requirements.

3. Inversionista (Investor) Residency

Eligibility:

Designed for individuals who invest a significant amount of capital in Costa Rica.

Requirements:

• Investment: A minimum investment of $150,000 in a business, real estate, or specific sectors approved by the government.
• Renewal: Inversionista residency must be renewed every two years.
• Stay Requirements: Must reside in Costa Rica for at least six months per year.

Application Process:

1. Provide proof of the investment through documentation such as business registration, real estate deeds, or investment contracts.
2. Submit the application to the DGME.
3. Await approval and ensure the investment remains active.

4. Temporary Residency Through Marriage or Parentage

Eligibility:

Available to individuals married to a Costa Rican citizen or those who have a child born in Costa Rica.

Requirements:

• Marriage: Provide a marriage certificate and proof of the relationship.
• Parentage: Provide the child’s birth certificate and proof of parentage.
• Renewal: Residency is typically renewed annually.
• Stay Requirements: No minimum stay requirements, but continuous presence helps in obtaining permanent residency.

Application Process:

1. Gather necessary documentation proving marriage or parentage.
2. Submit the application to the DGME.
3. Await approval, which may be expedited due to the familial connection.

5. Permanent Residency

Eligibility:

Permanent residency is generally available to individuals who have held temporary residency for at least three years or those with certain familial connections.

Requirements:

• Continuous Residency: Must have maintained temporary residency for three years.
• Familial Connections: Immediate family members of Costa Rican citizens (e.g., spouse, parent) may qualify sooner.
• Renewal: Permanent residency needs to be renewed every five years.
• Stay Requirements: Permanent residents are not subject to strict stay requirements but must maintain their residency status.

Application Process:

1. Provide proof of three years of temporary residency or familial connection.
2. Submit the application to the DGME.
3. Await approval and maintain compliance with residency requirements.