Latin America
Costa Rica immigration and visa guide
Costa Rica offers the popular Estancia para Trabajador Remoto (Digital Nomad Visa) with 100% income tax and import duty exemptions, plus the Rentista visa.
Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería
- Processing time
- 2 – 6 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- Yes
Visa options in Costa Rica
Key requirements
- Proof of monthly foreign income of at least $3,000 USD (or $4,000 USD if including family members) over the past 12 months
- Bank statements certified by issuing bank with sworn translation if not in Spanish
- Medical insurance policy covering the applicant throughout their stay in Costa Rica with $50,000+ medical expense coverage
How to apply for a Costa Rica visa: step by step
- 1
Online Tramite ¡Ya! Portal Submission
Submit digital application on the official Migración y Extranjería portal with bank statements and health insurance.
15 business days
- 2
Digital Approval & Entry
Receive official resolution letter and digital permit accreditation.
Immediate post-approval
- 3
DIMEX Card Biometrics
Schedule appointment for physical DIMEX identification card processing.
2 - 3 weeks
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
What tax perks apply to Digital Nomads in Costa Rica?
Law 10008 grants Digital Nomad permit holders complete exemption from Costa Rican income tax on foreign-sourced earnings, as well as exemption from import taxes on personal telecommuting equipment (laptops, cameras, tablets).
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Costa Rica. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Dirección General de Migración y ExtranjeríaGeneral information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería on the official website before applying.