If you’re planning to live and work from Costa Rica, it’s essential to understand the difference between two popular immigration paths: the Digital Nomad Visa and Temporary Residency for Work.
What’s the difference between digital nomad visa and Temporary Residency for Works
Here are the four main difference:
- Who you work for
Temporary residency applies to individuals who are employed by Costa Rican companies. In contrast, digital nomads work remotely for clients or employers based outside of Costa Rica. - How you qualify
To apply for temporary residency, you must have a Costa Rican employer who sponsors you before you enter the country. You cannot arrive as a tourist and then look for work.
Digital nomads, on the other hand, can self-sponsor by proving a steady income of at least $3,000 USD per month from foreign sources. No local job offer is required. - Healthcare obligations
If you hold temporary residency, you are required to enroll in the public healthcare system (CCSS).
Digital nomads must instead maintain private international or local health insurance throughout their stay. - Path to permanent residency
Time spent under temporary residency counts toward permanent residency eligibility after three years.
In contrast, time spent as a digital nomad does not count toward permanent residency or citizenship.
Conclusion
Both options are valid and legal — but serve different purposes and long-term goals. If you’re unsure which one best fits your situation…
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