Parent Residency
Costa Rica
Last updated: December 22, 2025
(renewable) every 2 years
$150
9-12 months
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you move to Costa Rica permanently if your child is a Costa Rican citizen. You can start working and living there right away—no waiting period. You don't need to prove you have money or a job to qualify. What makes this special: You get permanent residency immediately. Other family visas require you to wait 3 years before becoming permanent. Parents get permanent status from day one.
Key Benefits
- Work legally without restrictions
- Free/cheap public healthcare
- Bring unmarried children under 25
- Travel in and out freely
- Apply for citizenship after 7 years
- No language requirement needed
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Your child must be a Costa Rican citizen
- Your name must be on your child's birth certificate
- Your child must be born (cannot apply while pregnant)
- No serious criminal record
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- No age limits
Financial Requirement
None. No income or savings required. After moving, pay for public healthcare (7-11% of monthly income).
Documents
- Child's birth certificateFrom Costa Rica's Civil Registry
- Your birth certificateOfficial Spanish translation required
- Passport copyAll pages
- Criminal background checkLess than 6 months old, official Spanish translation required
- FingerprintsRegistered at Costa Rica's Ministry of Public Security
- Passport photos4-6 photos
- Application formFrom Costa Rica immigration office
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.