Obtaining residency in Costa Rica can be a significant step for those planning a more permanent stay. Here are the main routes for obtaining residency and the associated requirements:
Temporary Residency:
Upon entering Costa Rica, you are granted a 90-day tourist visa.
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, consider applying for temporary residency to avoid the need for frequent exits and re-entries.
There are four main routes for temporary residency:
a. Business/Investor (Inversionista):
- Make a direct investment of at least USD 200,000 in any business or real estate.
- Provide proof of the registered or verifiable value of the investment.
b. Retiree (Pensonado):
- Already retired and receiving pension benefits.
- Prove a monthly income from a qualified pension plan of at least USD 1,000.
c. Legal Resident (Rentista):
- Not retired but not required to work in Costa Rica.
- Show guaranteed, unearned income of USD 2,500 per month for 24 consecutive months.
- Prove the income through a bank letter or other sources like rental income or dividends.
d. Marriage/Relation (Vinculo):
- Married to or related to a Costa Rican citizen.
Permanent Residency:
After being a temporary resident for three years, you can apply for permanent residency.
The application process involves submitting required documents, including a birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), police report, and more.
The process typically takes between 10-15 months.
Health Care Requirement:
Upon approval for residency, you need to obtain a health care card, requiring registration with the Costa Rican Social Security Medical System (CCSS).
The monthly fee for health care depends on the income reported during the application process.
Additional Information:
For the business/investor category, the investment can be in various sectors such as manufacturing, hospitality, tourism, and commercial non-commercial real estate.
The bank account proving income for the rentista category doesn't need to be held in Costa Rica, but having it in a Costa Rican bank might simplify the process.
Documentation and Timeline:
Required documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, police reports, and proof of income.
The residency application process typically takes between 7-15 months.
Renewal and Permanent Residency:
Once approved, you won't need to leave the country to renew your tourist visa.
After three years of temporary residency, you can apply for permanent residency.
It's essential to work with a reputable immigration attorney or consultant to ensure a smooth application process and compliance with Costa Rican immigration laws.