Settling in
Costa Rica

 

 

There are different types of status for setting up in Costa Rica. You can be a temporary resident, permanent resident or even a Costa Rican citizen if you meet certain conditions.

To become a temporary resident, you need to prove that you have enough income to live in Costa Rica without working, or that you can carry out an economic activity there. You may also be eligible if you are the parent or spouse of a Costa Rican citizen, or if you have a job offer in the country.

To become a permanent resident, you must have resided in Costa Rica as a temporary resident for three years, or have invested a certain amount of money in the country. You may also be eligible if you have been married to a Costa Rican citizen for two years or more.

Finally, if you have lived in Costa Rica as a temporary or permanent resident for five years or more, you can become a Costa Rican citizen by proving your integration into Costa Rican society and taking an oath of loyalty to the country.

 

Temporary resident status :

1. Obtain a valid passport valid for at least six months.

2. Apply for a temporary resident visa at the Costa Rican embassy in the country of origin or current residence.

3. Submit documents proving your income or ability to work.

4. If you are a worker, you must submit documents proving your employment or job offer.

5. If you are married to a Costa Rican citizen, you must present a marriage certificate.

6. If you are a parent of a Costa Rican citizen, you must present a birth or adoption certificate.

7. Submit a criminal record certificate and a medical certificate.

8. Pay application fees and temporary residence fees.

9. Receive your temporary residence visa.

10. Once there, you’ll need to register with the local authorities and renew your residence permit every year.

Permanent resident status :

1. Have a temporary residence visa valid for three years.

2. Apply to the Costa Rican migration authorities for permanent residency.

3. If you meet the criteria, you will receive a five-year permanent residence card.

4. After five years of permanent residence, you may become eligible for Costa Rican citizenship.

Costa Rican citizenship status :

1. Have resided in Costa Rica as a temporary or permanent resident for five years or more.

2. Prove that you are integrated into Costa Rican society by presenting documents such as utility bills, work contracts, studies, etc.

3. Swear loyalty to Costa Rica.

4. Pay the citizenship application fee.