How to obtain legal residency in Costa Rica? Here are the top 4 options

Costa Rica is a dream destination for those seeking a peaceful, healthy, and fulfilling lifestyle. With its stunning natural beauty, top-tier healthcare system, stable economy, and convenient flight connections, it’s no wonder more people are choosing to live, retire, or invest here.

At ERP Lawyers, we help people from all over the world make their dream of legally residing in Costa Rica a reality. Here are four of the most common ways to obtain legal residency in the country:

  1. Retiree Residency


    Enjoy your golden years in paradise! If you’re retired and looking for a peaceful lifestyle, Costa Rica offers an easy path to legal residency.

Key requirements:

  • Monthly and for lifetime pension of at least US$1,000.
  • Official proof of pension. 
  • Birth Certificate.
  • Criminal background check.
  • Marriage Certificate (when applicable).
  1. Digital Nomad Visa


    Work remotely from paradise! Costa Rica welcomes digital nomads with a simple residency process, allowing you to enjoy the country’s natural beauty while staying connected.

Key requirements (Law No. 10008):

  • Minimum monthly income of US$3,000 (individual) or US$4,000 (with dependents), earned abroad.
  • Health Insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000.00 for the next year (required until the process is approved).
  1. Rentista Residency (Annuitant)


    For individuals with stable income who are not necessarily retired.

Key Requirements:

  • Minimum monthly rent income of US$2,500 guaranteed for at least 2 years, or a US$60,000 deposit in a Costa Rican bank account.
  • Birth certificate
  • Criminal background check.
  • Marriage Certificate (when applicable)
  1. Investor Residency


    Designed for foreigners interested in contributing capital to Costa Rica through real estate, business, or productive projects.

Key Requirements:

  • Minimum investment of US$150,000 in real estate, shares, or productive projects in Costa Rica.
  • Proof of the investment.
  • Birth certificate and apostilled or legalized. 
  • Criminal background check.
  • Marriage Certificate (when applicable).

General Additional Requirements:


Regardless of the type of residency you apply for, please keep in mind that:

  • All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and duly apostilled or legalized.
  • Once your residency is approved, you must enroll in the Costa Rican Social Security System (CCSS), which is a mandatory requirement to complete the process.

At ERP Lawyers, we guide you every step of the way so you can begin your new life in Costa Rica with complete peace of mind and legal security.
Ready to make Costa Rica your new home? Contact ERP Lawyers today for expert guidance tailored to your situation.

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