Temporary Residence for Foreign Workers
Costa Rica
Last updated: December 22, 2025
1-2 years (renewable)
$50
12 months
Medium
About this Visa
Costa Rica offers several work visas for foreign workers. The most popular is the Digital Nomad Visa—perfect if you work remotely for companies outside Costa Rica. You can also get a Special Category Work Visa if an employer sponsors you, or a Temporary Residence Visa if you have enough savings or pension income. These visas let you live and work legally in Costa Rica. You can hire a lawyer to help with paperwork, but it's not required. Many people apply on their own. Costa Rica welcomes workers from almost all countries. There are no nationality bans.
Key Benefits
- Work without restrictions
- Bring spouse and dependent children
- Access to public healthcare (CAJA)
- Tax-free worldwide income (Digital Nomad only)
- Path to permanent residence after 3 years
- Path to citizenship after 7 years
- Can start business (Pensionado/Rentista/Inversionista)
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- No criminal record
- Valid income source matching visa type
- Health insurance required (Digital Nomad)
- Documents must be certified and translated
- No age restriction
- No education requirement
- Spanish language not required for visa approval
Financial Requirement
Digital Nomad: $3,000-$4,000/month. Special Category: Employer dependent. Pensionado: $1,000/month pension. Rentista: $2,500/month guaranteed income. Inversionista: $150,000 investment.
Documents
- Valid passport6+ months validity
- Birth certificateCertified and translated to Spanish
- Police clearanceCertified from country of origin
- Bank statementsLast 12 months showing income
- Health insurance proof$50,000 minimum (Digital Nomad only)
- Employment/income verificationJob offer, pension letter, or investment proof depending on visa type
- Passport photos4 recent, clear photos
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.