In this article we tell you the difference between these three legal concepts. Their importance lies in the fact that they refer to different immigration statuses, which entail different foreign rights in the country.
Although at first glance they seem to be synonymous, there are substantial differences between three legal concepts that are of great importance for foreigners: residence, naturalization and citizenship.
Residency: what it is, existing types and how to obtain it
In Costa Rica, residency refers to the permit granted to a foreigner by the country’s government, which allows him or her to legally live on Costa Rican land. Its particularity is that it is for a specific period of time and its importance lies in the fact that it allows you to access health and education services.
Although there are different types, it can mainly be temporary that is provided for a certain time with the possibility of being renewed; and permanent, which as its name indicates is long-lasting and can become the path to naturalization.
As expected, in order to obtain residency it is necessary to meet a series of requirements. Among them: proving that you have sufficient income for your stay in the country, having a job or investing here, added to other criteria established by the immigration authorities.
Naturalization: definition, requirements, rights and responsibilities
The concept of naturalization corresponds to the process that allows a foreigner to acquire Costa Rican nationality to become a citizen of the country. This type of nationality is known as ius domicili. In order to obtain it, it is necessary to meet certain requirements, which include: having legally resided in the country for a specific period of time, having a permanent residence, demonstrating knowledge of the Spanish language and passing a naturalization exam, among others.
Once naturalization becomes effective, the individual acquires all the rights and responsibilities of any Costa Rican citizen. These include: the right to vote, access to social security, hold public office, the obligation to comply with the laws and civic duties of Costa Rica.
Citizenship: what it is, what is its particularity in Costa Rica and how can it be obtained
This term refers to the legal status that provides a person with the rights and responsibilities related to membership in a specific nation-state. In the case of Costa Rica, becoming a member of the nation allows the right to vote in elections, obtain a Costa Rican passport, take an active part in the nation’s decision-making, among others; in addition to the fulfillment of certain civic obligations.
There are two ways to acquire it. On the one hand, citizenship by birth in Costa Rican territory (jus soli), and on the other by descent (jus sanguinis) if at least one of your parents is a citizen of Costa Rica. Furthermore, as we previously indicated, it can be obtained through the naturalization process.
If you are interested in processing your Costa Rican residency, contact ERP Lawyers to receive expert legal advice.
