Costa Rica Residency by Investment
Costa Rica offers a structured pathway to residency through investment, providing access to one of Central America’s most stable and lifestyle-oriented destinations.
With its strong governance, favorable tax environment, and high quality of life, Costa Rica continues to attract investors, retirees, and globally mobile families.
About the Program
The Costa Rica Residency by Investment Program, commonly referred to as the Costa Rica Golden Visa, allows foreign nationals to obtain legal residency through a qualifying economic contribution.
Applicants can typically secure residency within 9 to 12 months, with a clear pathway to citizenship after 5 to 7 years, depending on nationality.
Costa Rica offers a unique combination of economic stability, environmental sustainability, and a relaxed, high-quality lifestyle.
Key Details
Investment
Minimum investment of 150,000 USD under the Investor Residency category
Key Benefit
The right to live, work, and retire anywhere in Costa Rica
Why Costa Rica
- Politically stable and well-governed country
- Strong and growing economy in Central America
- Business-friendly regulatory environment
- Attractive tax system with international appeal
- Renowned for safety, sustainability, and quality of life
Key Benefits
- Residency in a stable and internationally connected country
- Inclusion of spouse and dependent children
- Flexible residency requirements with minimal physical presence
- Access to a high-quality lifestyle and natural environment
- Pathway to citizenship after 5 to 7 years
- Dual citizenship permitted
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants may qualify under one of the following pathways:
- Investor Residency
- Minimum investment of 150,000 USD
- Eligible investment options include:
- Real estate
- Shares in an operational Costa Rican company
- Investment in the Costa Rican stock market
- Retired Persons Residency
- Minimum lifetime pension of 1,000 USD per month
- Must be issued by a recognized public or private entity
- Fixed-Income Residency
- Minimum stable income of 2,500 USD per month
- Income must originate from investments or business activities
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a valid passport and entry visa
- Provide a clean criminal record
- Demonstrate a legitimate source of funds
- Meet the financial requirements of the selected pathway
Application Process
The process includes:
- Preparation of documentation
- Submission to the Immigration Department
- Government review and approval
- Registration with Costa Rica’s social security system within 90 days
Applicants are initially granted a temporary residency permit valid for 2 years, renewable for additional two-year periods.
Residency Requirements
To maintain residency status, applicants must:
- Maintain their investment or income source
- Visit Costa Rica at least once per year (minimum one day)
- Keep social security registration active
Pathway to Citizenship
Costa Rica offers a clear route to citizenship:
- Standard eligibility after 7 years of residency
- Accelerated eligibility after 5 years for certain nationalities
Required Documents
Applicants must provide:
- Valid passport
- Proof of investment or income
- Clean criminal record
- Supporting financial documentation
Important Notes
- Processing times typically range between 9 and 12 months
- Residency is renewable as long as requirements are maintained
- Citizenship eligibility depends on continuous legal residency
Start Your Application
Costa Rica combines lifestyle, flexibility, and long-term opportunity in one of the region’s most desirable destinations.