How to Get Residency in Costa Rica: A Complete Guide

1. Pensionado (retirees)

For people with a permanent, lifetime pension or retirement income. The most common choice for retirees.

2. Rentista (stable income)

For people who are not yet retired but have stable, guaranteed income for a set period, or funds deposited in a Costa Rican bank. The exact proof required depends on your situation and is reviewed in your consultation.

3. Investor (Inversionista)

For people making a qualifying investment in Costa Rica, commonly in real estate or a business. Spouse and dependent children can usually be included.

4. Family ties (Vínculo)

Marriage to a Costa Rican, or being the parent of a Costa Rican child, can open a direct path to residency without income requirements.

5. Digital Nomad stay

For remote workers earning foreign income. It is a long stay permit rather than residency, with its own income proof requirement—the current figures are confirmed in your consultation.

Documents most categories require

• Apostilled birth certificate
• Apostilled criminal background check
• Proof of income or investment, apostilled
• Valid passport and photos
• Fingerprints and consular registration
• Official Spanish translations

The process

• Choose your category in a consultation
• Gather and apostille your documents
• File with the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería
• Respond to any requests while the case is reviewed—we give you a realistic timeline in your consultation
• Enroll in the Caja (CCSS) and receive your DIMEX

From temporary to permanent and citizenship

Most categories begin as temporary residency. Permanent residency and citizenship each have their own timing rules; we map out your route and when you qualify in a consultation.