Permanent Residency:
It’s a migratory status allowing indefinite stay in Costa Rica with the possibility to work without issues. Those eligible for this residency include individuals whose parents or children are Costa Rican citizens, or foreigners who have had temporary residency for three consecutive years.
Temporary Residency:
Granted for a maximum of two years under the following categories:
Residency as a spouse of a Costa Rican:
Given to a foreigner providing credible evidence of legal marriage to a Costa Rican citizen. Once meeting this requirement, a one-year residency is granted, extendable for the same period. After three years as a legal resident, one can apply for Permanent Residency.
Residency as a religious person:
Available to individuals practicing a religion accredited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Residency for company members:
Applies to foreigners (and their spouses and children) in executive, representative, managerial, or technical positions in companies established in Costa Rica.
Residency for scientists, professionals, or interns:
These individuals and their dependents can apply for this category.
Residency as correspondents and press agency personnel:
For professionals in journalism whose work requires residing in the country.
Residency for athletes:
Athletes accredited by Costa Rica’s National Sports Council can apply for this residency.
Residency for investors:
Includes individuals associated with
a) productive or national interest project
b) real estate properties
c) stocks and securities
d) forestry plantations.
Residency for pensioners:
Granted to those providing evidence of a monthly lifelong pension of $1,000 USD or equivalent.
Residency for rentiers:
Those proving they will receive a monthly income not less than $2,500 USD or equivalent for at least two years can apply.
To apply for any of the aforementioned residencies, the applicant must also have a valid visa, present their birth certificate, criminal record, provide fingerprints, recent photographs, among other requirements.
