Special Category Temporary Residence
Costa Rica
Last updated: December 22, 2025
1 year (renewable)
$52
6-12 months
High
About this Visa
This visa lets you work in Costa Rica for a specific employer. Your employer sponsors you and proves they need your skills. You can't change jobs without getting a new permit. The visa is good for people with specialized skills—like engineers, doctors, software developers, or managers. Costa Rica prefers to hire Costa Ricans, so your employer must show that no local person can do your job.
Key Benefits
- Work legally for your sponsor employer
- Bring your spouse and children
- Access to Costa Rica's public healthcare (CAJA)
- Travel freely within Central America
- Path to permanent residency after 3 years
- Can apply for citizenship after 7 years
- Family members can apply for their own work permits
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have special skills or professional qualifications
- Employer must prove no Costa Rican can do the job
- Clean criminal record - no felonies or pending charges
- No communicable diseases
- No drug trafficking or terrorism charges
- Must be able to work - no serious health issues
- Do not need to speak Spanish to get this visa
Financial Requirement
Employer must be able to pay your salary. No minimum personal income required.
Documents
- Valid passportAt least 6 months validity
- Birth certificateOfficial copy, stamped by government
- Police clearanceFrom your home country, showing no criminal record
- Employment contractSigned by you and your employer
- Employer letterExplaining why they need you
- Professional qualificationsYour degrees or certifications
- Medical exam certificateProof of good health
- Proof of financial meansBank statements or similar
- Passport photos2 photos, passport size
- Consular registration receiptRequired as of July 2024
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.