Self-Employed Residency
Costa Rica
Last updated: December 22, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$100
3-12 months
High
About this Visa
This visa lets you start your own business in Costa Rica. You can be self-employed or own a company. Unlike other visas that require you to show a fixed monthly income, this one lets you prove you have a real, working business instead. It is for skilled workers and business owners. It is less common and harder to get than other visas. Immigration officers have more say in whether you get approved. This residency is valid for 2 years and can be renewed every 2 years. After 3 years, you can switch to permanent residency. After 7 years, you can become a Costa Rican citizen (5 years if from Central America, Spain, or Latin America).
Key Benefits
- Start and own a business in Costa Rica
- Pay yourself from your business
- Bring spouse and children under 25 (if in university)
- Get national healthcare covering doctors, medicine, and hospital visits
- Travel freely in and out of Costa Rica
- Switch to permanent residency after 3 years
- Become Costa Rican citizen after 7 years (5 years if from Central America, Spain, or Latin America)
- Foreign income usually not taxed
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 or older
- No serious criminal record
- Have a real business plan or professional skills
- Some professions are restricted - check if yours is allowed
- Prove you have enough money to support yourself
- Spanish not required to get visa
- Must enroll in national healthcare system
Financial Requirement
No minimum monthly income required. Must prove business can support you. Start with $10,000+, depending on business type.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be good for 6+ months
- Birth certificateOfficial translation and certification required
- Criminal record checkFrom home country, recent within 6 months
- Proof of residenceUtility bill or rental agreement
- Passport-size photos6 photos
- FingerprintsRegistered with Costa Rican police
- College degree or technical certificate or portfolioRequired for self-employed workers
- Professional licenseIf required for your job
- Costa Rican tax IDFor your business
- Business registration documentsRequired for business owners
- Business licenseGovernment proof of registration
- Bank statements3-6 months of business account activity
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.