Frequently Asked Questions
Here we have gathered the answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding obtaining residency in Costa Rica.
Tourist Entry & Visa Groups (2025 Rules)
1How long can I stay in Costa Rica as a tourist in 2025?
Many visitors can now be admitted for up to 180 days as tourists, but this is only the maximum. When you arrive, the immigration officer looks at your documents and then writes the exact number of days you are allowed to stay in your passport. That number is what you must follow.
2What does “up to 180 days” really mean?
“Up to 180 days” means the law allows a maximum of 180 days for some nationalities in Group 1, but you are not guaranteed that amount. The officer can give you fewer days based on your situation. You must leave Costa Rica on or before the last day written in your passport stamp.
3What are Costa Rica’s four visa groups?
Costa Rica groups countries into four main visa categories. Group 1 nationals usually do not need a visa and can get up to 180 days. Group 2 also does not need a visa but generally gets up to 30 days, with a possible extension. Group 3 must obtain a consular visa before travelling. Group 4 must obtain a restricted visa that is reviewed more strictly by a special commission.
4Who is usually in Visa Group 1?
Group 1 generally includes countries like the United States, Canada, most Western European nations, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and some Latin American partners. These visitors normally do not need a visa and may receive up to 180 days, but each case is still decided at the border. You should always confirm your country’s status on the official Immigration website.
5Who is usually in Visa Group 2?
Group 2 includes countries that do not require a visa but receive shorter stays, typically up to 30 days on arrival. Some visitors can apply for an extension of their stay up to a total of 90 days if they meet certain conditions. Examples in this group have included Russia, Ukraine and some Central American and island nations, but you must check the current list with Immigration.
6What is a Group 3 consular visa for Costa Rica?
Group 3 nationals must apply for a visa at a Costa Rican consulate before coming to Costa Rica. If approved, they can usually stay up to 30 days as tourists. Any extensions or changes are decided by Immigration in Costa Rica. The consulate may require financial proof, travel plans and a clear reason for the visit.
7What is a Group 4 restricted visa?
Group 4 is the most restrictive category. These nationals must apply for a special visa that is reviewed by a commission within Immigration. If approved, the stay is usually limited to up to 30 days and may carry extra conditions. People in this group typically come for very specific, short-term purposes.
8How can I find out which visa group my country is in?
The only reliable way is to consult the official list from the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME) or contact a Costa Rican consulate. Blogs and social media often share outdated information, so always double-check with official sources before you travel.
9If my country is in Group 1, do I automatically get 180 days?
No. Group 1 allows a maximum of 180 days, but the officer at the border decides how many days you actually receive. They may match your allowed stay to your return ticket or travel plans and give you less than 180 days.
10Does being in Group 2, 3 or 4 mean I can’t apply for residency later?
No. Your visa group only affects how you enter as a tourist. Once you meet the requirements for a residency category, you can apply for residency regardless of whether you were in Group 1, 2, 3 or 4.
11Can visa groups or rules change without warning?
Visa groups and entry rules can change, and updates are published by Immigration and sometimes by Costa Rican consulates or the tourism board. Because of this, it’s a good habit to re-check the latest information each time you plan a trip, even if you have visited Costa Rica before.
12Does my nationality affect how strictly the 180-day rule is applied?
Yes. Immigration officers consider your nationality, how often you enter and leave Costa Rica, your travel history, your financial means and whether you appear to be living in Costa Rica on repeated tourist entries. Two travelers arriving on the same flight can receive different numbers of days.
Length of Stay, 180-Day Rule & Extensions
1How does the 180-day tourist stay actually work at the airport?
When you arrive, you show your passport and any requested documents, such as proof of onward travel and funds. The officer then decides how many days you can stay and writes that number in your passport. That date is your legal limit for that visit, even if the law allows up to 180 days.
2Can I ask the officer to give me 180 days?
You can politely explain your plans and show that your onward ticket and insurance cover that period, but the officer is not obligated to grant 180 days. They can always issue fewer days if they feel it is appropriate.
3Can tourist stays be extended from inside Costa Rica?
Extensions are limited and depend on your visa group. Group 1 visitors are generally expected to leave when their stamped days end. Group 2 visitors may sometimes request an extension up to a total of 90 days. Group 3 and 4 visitors must follow their visa conditions, and any extension is at Immigration’s discretion.
4Is a 180-day stay enough if I’m considering moving to Costa Rica?
A 180-day stay is a good way to explore the country and test daily life, but it does not replace residency. It doesn’t give you the right to work for a local employer or guarantee long-term stability. If you plan to move, it is better to look into residency categories while you are here.
5Does the 180-day rule apply to every visit in the same year?
The 180 days apply per entry, not per year, but Immigration can see your travel history. If you use nearly the maximum allowance on multiple visits, they may conclude you are living in Costa Rica as a tourist and decide to reduce your stay or question you more closely.
6If I get 60 or 90 days instead of 180, can I change it later?
Most of the time, no. You are expected to leave on or before the date written in your passport. Extensions exist in certain cases, but they are not guaranteed and usually involve paperwork and specific requirements.
7Does time on a tourist stamp count toward residency qualification?
No. Time spent on a tourist stamp does not count toward the years required for residency or citizenship. Your “clock” for residency starts only after your residency is approved and you receive your DIMEX card.
8Can I stay in Costa Rica while my residency is pending, even if my tourist days run out?
If your residency application has been filed and accepted, you typically receive a file number or receipt. In many cases, this lets you remain in Costa Rica legally while your case is processed, even if your tourist stamp has expired. However, this does not automatically extend your right to drive with a foreign license.
Onward Travel, Passport Validity & Overstays
1Do I really need a return or onward ticket to enter Costa Rica?
Yes. All tourists must be able to show that they will leave Costa Rica before their authorized stay ends. This is usually a return flight or a ticket to another country. Airlines often check this before you board, and Immigration can ask to see it on arrival.
2What happens if my onward ticket is dated after the maximum stay allowed for my nationality?
If your ticket shows a later return date than your permitted maximum stay, the officer may either reduce your allowed days to match the ticket or question your plans. In some cases, airlines might refuse to board you if your flights conflict with entry rules.
3How much money do I need to show at the border?
Immigration may ask you to show that you can support yourself during your stay. As a guideline, they may look for proof of at least around US $100 per month of stay, although this can vary. You can show bank statements, credit cards or cash if requested.
4What are the passport validity rules for entering Costa Rica?
The legal minimum depends on the visa group, but in practice the safest approach is to arrive with at least six months of validity left on your passport. This helps avoid issues with airlines or Immigration staff who might be stricter than the minimum rule.
5Is it risky to arrive with only a few weeks left on my passport?
Yes. Even if some groups are technically allowed shorter validity, airline and border officials can still deny boarding or entry if they feel your passport expires too soon. Renewing your passport before travel usually avoids these problems.
6What happens if I overstay my tourist days?
If you stay beyond the date written in your passport without a valid extension or pending residency, you are considered out of status. You may face fines, delays at the airport and difficulties returning to Costa Rica later. Repeat or serious overstays can lead to entry restrictions.
7Can I pay a fine and “fix” an overstay?
Paying a fine when leaving does not erase the record of your overstay. It simply allows you to exit the country. Immigration will still see that you stayed longer than allowed, and that history can affect future entries or residency applications.
8Is it safer to leave before my tourist days expire, even if I plan to come back soon?
Yes. Respecting the dates written in your passport shows that you follow the rules. If you want to live in Costa Rica long-term, it is better to apply for residency instead of stretching tourist stays or relying on frequent border runs.
Residency Pathways & Long-Term Stay Options.
1What are the main residency options in Costa Rica?
Common options include Pensionado (lifetime pension), Rentista (fixed income or deposit), Investor (Inversionista), family-based categories (for spouses, parents and children of Costa Rican citizens), as well as certain work and student permits. Each one has its own requirements and documentation..
2How does Pensionado residency work?
Pensionado residency is aimed at retirees who receive a guaranteed lifetime pension of at least US $1,000 per month from a recognized source, such as a government or company pension. It’s a popular choice for people who want to live in Costa Rica on a stable, predictable income.
3What is Rentista residency?
Rentista residency is for applicants who don’t have a lifetime pension but can prove a fixed income. The standard requirement is to show US $2,500 per month for at least two years, often by depositing US $60,000 in a bank or meeting another accepted method for demonstrating guaranteed income.
4How does Investor (Inversionista) residency work?
Investor residency is based on investing at least a legal minimum amount (often US $150,000) into qualifying assets such as real estate, certain businesses or approved projects. The investment must be properly documented and valued under Costa Rican law.
5Can I get residency by marrying a Costa Rican citizen?
Yes. If you are legally married to a Costa Rican citizen and the marriage is registered in the Costa Rican Civil Registry, you may apply for a family-based residency category. You still need to provide standard documents like a police record and meet other general requirements.
6Can parents of Costa Rican children apply for residency?
Yes. Parents of Costa Rican citizens, including children born in Costa Rica, may qualify for residency under family-based options. The child’s birth registration and proof of the parent–child relationship play a key role in these applications.
7Does the Digital Nomad visa count as a residency category?
No. The Digital Nomad visa is a temporary, non-resident status. It lets you stay in Costa Rica while working remotely for foreign clients or employers, but it does not count as residency time and does not convert automatically into permanent residency.
8How long must I hold temporary residency before I can apply for permanent residency?
Most temporary residency holders can apply for permanent residency after three years in a qualifying temporary category, provided they have maintained their status and met all obligations during that period. Certain family-based cases may move faster.
9Does permanent residency allow me to work in Costa Rica?
Yes. Permanent residents are allowed to work as employees in Costa Rica without a separate work permit. Temporary residents in categories like Pensionado or Rentista are generally not allowed to work as employees.
10Does residency automatically lead to citizenship?
No. Residency and citizenship are separate processes. Long-term residents can apply for citizenship once they meet the required number of years and other conditions like language and civics tests, but approval is not automatic.
Residency Application Process & Timelines.
1Can I start a residency application while I’m still outside Costa Rica?
In many situations, yes. You may file through a Costa Rican consulate or use a representative in Costa Rica. However, you will still need to travel to Costa Rica for steps such as fingerprints, medical checks and Caja enrollment.
2Can I apply for residency while I am already in Costa Rica as a tourist?
Yes. Many people enter as tourists and later decide to apply for residency. As long as your application is filed correctly and accepted, you can generally stay in the country legally while Immigration reviews your case.
3How long does it usually take to get a residency resolution?
Processing times vary, but many applicants wait close to a year from the time a complete file is submitted. Some cases are faster, while others are slower, depending on the category, the quality of the documents and the overall workload at Immigration.
4What basic documents are required for most residency categories?
Most applicants will need a recent birth certificate, a police certificate (criminal record) from their country of origin or residence, proof of income or investment, passport copies, and, if applying through family, marriage or birth certificates. Most foreign documents must be apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish.
5Why do foreign documents have to be apostilled or legalized?
Apostilles and legalizations are international certifications that confirm a document is genuine. Costa Rican authorities rely on these stamps to accept foreign documents as valid. Without them, your papers might be rejected.
6Do my documents expire for residency purposes?
Yes. Immigration typically requires that police records and certified copies of key documents be issued recently, often within six months of submission. If they are older, you may be told to obtain updated versions.
7What is a residency “file number,” and why is it important?
Once Immigration accepts your application, it assigns an expediente number. This file number, along with the receipt, shows that your case exists in the system and is usually what allows you to stay in Costa Rica legally while your application is processed.
8Can I change to a different residency category later?
Yes. For example, someone who starts as a Rentista might later switch to Pensionado once they receive a formal pension. When done correctly, your time as a temporary resident typically continues to count toward permanent residency.
9What happens if my residency is approved but I don’t finish the final steps?
Approval alone is not enough. You still must join Caja, pay any required guarantee deposit, schedule your DIMEX card appointment and complete any remaining obligations. If you do not complete these steps, your approval can be cancelled.
10Can my residency application be denied?
Yes. Applications may be rejected if the information is incomplete, doesn’t match the requirements, or if there are serious issues in your background check. In some cases, you can correct the issues and reapply, but it depends on the reason for denial.
Driving & Transportation in Costa Rica.
1How long can I drive with my foreign driver’s license in Costa Rica?
You can drive with your foreign license for the same number of days you are legally admitted as a visitor. That period is shown on the entry stamp in your passport, up to the maximum allowed for your nationality.
2Does the 180-day tourist rule also apply to driving?
Yes, in practice the driving period is tied to your authorized stay. If you are granted 180 days at entry and your group allows it, you may drive for those 180 days. If you are granted fewer days, your driving privilege usually ends on that earlier date.
3Can I keep driving if my tourist stamp expires but I have a residency application in process?
Not automatically. Having a pending residency case may allow you to stay in the country, but it does not extend the validity of your foreign driver’s license. After your stamped days expire, you typically must stop driving until you convert your license after residency approval.
4When can I get a Costa Rican driver’s license as a resident?
After your residency is approved and you receive your DIMEX card, you can apply to convert your foreign license to a Costa Rican one at the traffic authority. You will need your foreign license, DIMEX, a medical exam, and to follow the procedures set by the authorities.
5Is public transportation reliable in Costa Rica?
Buses between towns and cities are widely used and very affordable. Inside the Central Valley, buses, taxis and ride-sharing services are common. In more remote or coastal areas, schedules may be limited, so having a personal vehicle can make daily life easier.
6Are roads in Costa Rica difficult to drive?
Main highways are generally paved and in reasonable condition, but many secondary and rural roads are narrow, curvy or unpaved. Heavy rain, fog and night driving increase the difficulty. New drivers should be cautious until they adjust to local conditions.
7Do I need vehicle insurance to drive in Costa Rica?
Yes. All vehicles must have basic mandatory insurance, and most drivers purchase additional private coverage for better protection. Rental cars include required coverage by law, but you can often upgrade to extended coverage if you choose.
8Can I drive a car with foreign plates in Costa Rica long-term?
No. Cars with foreign plates are subject to customs rules and short-term permissions. In most cases, you must properly import and register the vehicle in Costa Rica for long-term use. Driving a foreign-plated car indefinitely without proper procedures can lead to legal and customs issues.
Banking, Money & Practical Finances.
1Can I open a bank account in Costa Rica as a non-resident?
Some banks allow foreigners to open basic accounts using just a passport.. These accounts might have limits on balances and transaction types. Having a DIMEX (residency ID) usually makes the process easier and unlocks more banking options.
2Is it difficult to transfer money into Costa Rica?
Wire transfers are common, but banks must follow anti–money laundering rules. They may ask for documents that prove where the funds come from, such as pension letters, contracts or proof of property sales. Providing clear documentation usually makes the process smoother.
3Should I keep most of my savings inside or outside Costa Rica?
Many foreign residents choose to keep part of their funds in their home country and bring in only what they need for living costs and local investments. This choice depends on personal financial planning and may be best discussed with a professional advisor.
4How are foreign pensions treated for tax purposes in Costa Rica?
Under Costa Rica’s territorial tax system, foreign pensions are usually not taxed in Costa Rica. You still need to respect tax rules in the country paying the pension, but Costa Rica generally focuses on income earned within its borders.
5What currency will I use day-to-day in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s currency is the colón. Daily expenses like groceries and utilities are typically paid in colones, while some rents, real estate prices and certain services are often quoted in US dollars. Many residents use both currencies regularly.
6Are ATMs easy to find?
ATMs are common in cities and tourist areas but can be less frequent in rural regions. Most international cards work here, but withdrawal limits and fees vary. To reduce costs, some people use a combination of ATMs and local accounts.
7Can I use cryptocurrency directly in Costa Rica for daily purchases?
Cryptocurrency is not legal tender in Costa Rica. A few individuals or businesses might accept it informally, but most do not. For residency, banking and major transactions, you generally need to convert crypto to regular currency and show clear records of the conversion.
8Do Costa Rican banks accept transfers coming directly from crypto exchanges?
Many banks are cautious with transfers that clearly originate from cryptocurrency platforms. These transfers can trigger extra questions or even be blocked. It is usually simpler to convert cryptocurrency to traditional currency elsewhere and then send the funds from a regular bank account with proper documentation.
9Is it possible to build a credit history in Costa Rica as a foreigner?
Yes, although it takes time. Paying bills on time, maintaining local accounts and eventually using local financial products can help build credit. Each bank has its own criteria, and credit limits may start low and increase gradually.
10Do I need a local bank account to qualify for residency?
Most residency categories do not require a local bank account before approval, but once you are living in Costa Rica, a local account is very practical for paying rent, utilities and other daily expenses.
Healthcare & Insurance.
1What is the public healthcare system in Costa Rica?
The public system is operated by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, commonly known as Caja or CCSS. It provides healthcare services, including consultations, hospital care and many medications, to residents who are enrolled and up to date with their contributions.
2Is Caja enrollment mandatory for residents?
Yes. Once your residency is approved, enrolling in Caja and paying monthly contributions is a legal requirement. The amount you pay is based on your declared income and usually covers you and qualifying dependents.
3Can I rely only on private healthcare instead of joining Caja?
Even if you prefer to use private clinics and hospitals, you are still required to enroll in Caja if you are a resident. Many residents use a combination of the two: Caja for certain services and private healthcare to reduce wait times or access specific treatments.
4Are private hospitals in Costa Rica modern?
Yes. Private hospitals in San José and some other areas are modern and well-equipped, with many doctors who trained internationally. They offer shorter wait times than the public system, but costs are higher, so many people use private insurance to help pay for care.
5What kind of medical insurance can I use before my residency is approved?
Before your residency is finalized and you can join Caja, you can use travel medical insurance, international expat insurance or local private policies. These can cover emergencies and routine care while your status is still in process.
6Are prescription medications easy to find?
Common medications are generally available in Costa Rica, sometimes under different brand names than in your home country. For some medicines, you may not need a prescription, but for controlled substances or more specialized treatments you will need to see a local doctor.
7Does Caja cover pre-existing conditions?
Caja operates as a social security system and generally does not exclude people due to pre-existing conditions. However, access to non-urgent treatments can involve waiting periods, which is one reason some residents combine Caja with private insurance.
8Do spouses and children get coverage under one Caja contribution?
Yes. When the main contributor enrolls, eligible dependents can usually be added to the same Caja coverage. This makes the system attractive for families even though there can be wait times for some services.
Working, Business & Taxes.
1Can I work for a Costa Rican employer while I am in the country as a tourist?
No. Tourist status does not allow you to work for a local employer. Working on a tourist stamp is not permitted and can create legal problems for both you and the employer.
2Can I own a business in Costa Rica as a foreigner?
Yes. Foreigners can own corporations and property in Costa Rica. Many foreigners own businesses here. However, depending on your residency status, you may not be allowed to be an employee of your own company and might be limited to managing or overseeing investments.
3Does Costa Rica tax my foreign income?
Costa Rica generally taxes only income that is generated within its borders. Foreign pensions, foreign salaries and investment income from outside Costa Rica are usually not taxed here, but you must still follow the tax laws of your home country.
4Do I have to file a tax return in Costa Rica?
If you earn income from activities inside Costa Rica or operate a business here, you will likely need to file and pay local taxes. If all your income is from outside the country, you may not have to file, but you should confirm this with a local tax professional.
5Can residency help me open a corporation in Costa Rica?
Residency can make it easier to handle in-person steps like signing documents and dealing with banks, but non-residents can also form corporations through a representative. Compliance, documentation and tax obligations are usually more important than residency status alone.
6Is it easy to get a work permit in Costa Rica?
Work permits are possible, but they are not automatic. Employers must usually show that a Costa Rican cannot easily fill the position or that the foreign worker has specialized skills. Many foreigners use other residency categories and later move into permanent residency to have full work rights.
7Can I do remote work for a foreign employer while I am a resident in Costa Rica?
Yes. Many residents continue working remotely for employers or clients based abroad. From Costa Rica’s perspective, that income is generally considered foreign-source, but you still need to comply with tax rules where the employer or clients are located.
8Does owning property automatically give me the right to work in Costa Rica?
No. Property ownership and work authorization are separate issues. Owning a home or investment property does not by itself allow you to work as an employee in Costa Rica. Your work rights depend on your immigration category.
Daily Life, Housing & Living in Costa Rica.
1Is the cost of living in Costa Rica lower than in North America or Europe?
For many people, yes, especially for local food, basic services and public healthcare. However, imported items, vehicles, electronics and some specialized goods can be more expensive due to taxes and shipping. Your personal lifestyle will determine your overall costs.
2What are typical rental costs in Costa Rica?
Rent varies widely depending on location and property type. Simple apartments in non-tourist areas can be relatively affordable, while beach homes or properties in highly desirable neighborhoods can be priced closer to what you might see in mid-range markets in developed countries.
3Can foreigners buy property in Costa Rica?
Yes. In most cases, foreigners have the same property rights as Costa Rican citizens. Special rules apply in certain coastal and concession zones, so it’s important to work with a qualified attorney for those areas..
4Is it better to rent first or buy right away?
Many newcomers choose to rent for at least a year. This gives them time to understand the area, weather, local services and lifestyle before committing to a purchase. Renting first can prevent costly mistakes.
5Is English widely spoken in Costa Rica?
English is common in tourist zones and in businesses that mainly serve foreigners, but Spanish is the main language used in government offices, local neighborhoods and everyday interactions. Knowing some Spanish will make daily life much easier.
6What is the climate like throughout the year?
Costa Rica has diverse microclimates. Coastal areas tend to be hot and humid, while the Central Valley often has milder temperatures. There is a dry season and a rainy season, and some higher altitude areas can feel cool, especially at night.
7Is Costa Rica considered a safe country?
Compared to many countries in the region, Costa Rica is often viewed as relatively safe. However, petty crime like theft does occur, especially in crowded or tourist areas. Using normal precautions—such as not leaving valuables in cars—makes a big difference.
8What is the education system like for children?
Costa Rica has a free public school system plus many private and international schools. Families can choose between Spanish-language public schools and private schools that offer bilingual or foreign curricula, depending on their goals and budget.
9Is high-speed internet available in most areas?
High-speed connections, including fiber and cable, are widely available in cities and many popular expat communities. Rural zones may rely more on mobile data or slower connections, so checking internet options before choosing a home is important for remote workers.
10Do I need a car to live comfortably in Costa Rica?
In some urban neighborhoods, you can get by with buses, taxis and ride-sharing. In many coastal or rural areas, a car or 4x4 makes life much easier due to distances, road conditions and limited bus schedules.
Digital Nomad Visa.
1What is Costa Rica’s Digital Nomad visa designed for?
It is designed for people who work remotely for companies or clients outside Costa Rica and want to live in the country for a limited time while continuing their foreign-based work.
2Sample question
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3How long is the Digital Nomad visa valid?
It is usually granted for one year and can often be renewed for an additional year if the applicant meets the minimum stay and income requirements, including spending enough time physically in Costa Rica during the first year.
4What income level do I need to qualify for the Digital Nomad visa?
You must show a steady monthly income above a legal threshold, often around US $3,000 for an individual and a higher amount if you include dependents. The exact figures can change, so you should confirm the current requirements.
5Does the Digital Nomad visa allow me to work for Costa Rican companies?
No. It allows you to work for foreign employers or clients while living in Costa Rica. It does not authorize you to take on a local salaried job.
6Does time on a Digital Nomad visa count toward permanent residency?
No. The Digital Nomad visa is a separate, non-resident category. Time spent under it does not count toward the years needed for residency or citizenship.
7Do Digital Nomads pay income tax in Costa Rica on their foreign income?
Generally, no, because Costa Rica’s tax system focuses on income earned inside the country. However, Digital Nomads must continue to comply with tax rules in the countries where their companies or clients are based..
8Do I need health insurance to obtain a Digital Nomad visa?
Yes. Applicants must show valid health insurance that covers them in Costa Rica for the entire period of their intended stay. Any dependents included must also be covered.
9Can my family join me on a Digital Nomad visa?
In many cases, yes. Spouses, children and other dependents may be included as long as you meet the higher income requirement and provide the correct relationship documents and insurance coverage for everyone.
Legal Details, Documentation & Key Terms.
1What is DGME?
DGME stands for Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería. It is Costa Rica’s main Immigration authority and is responsible for managing borders, visas and residency applications.
2What is a DIMEX card?
A DIMEX card is the official identification card issued to foreign residents in Costa Rica. It shows your immigration category, your personal details and the card’s expiration date.
3What does “certificado de trámite” mean?
A certificado de trámite is an official document or receipt confirming that your residency application has been filed and accepted into the system. It includes or is tied to your file number and is important if your tourist days expire while your case is under review.
4What is an “apoderado”?
An apoderado is a person you grant power of attorney to so they can represent you in legal and administrative matters. In immigration, this person can submit your documents, receive notifications and handle many steps on your behalf.
5What is the guarantee deposit for some residents?
In certain residency categories, you may be asked to pay a refundable guarantee deposit. The amount is usually similar to the cost of a one-way ticket to your home country and is meant to cover potential repatriation costs.. If you cancel residency properly or become a citizen, you can request it back.
6What is an apostille?
An apostille is an international certification attached to a document, like a birth or marriage certificate, that confirms it is authentic so it can be used in another country that is part of the Hague Convention.
7What is consular legalization?
Consular legalization is used when a country is not part of the apostille system. In that case, the document must be certified by a Costa Rican consulate, which verifies that it is genuine so Costa Rican authorities will accept it.
8What does “Nómada Digital” mean?
Nómada Digital is the Spanish term for Digital Nomad. In Costa Rican law, it refers to the immigration category for remote workers who meet the specific income, insurance and documentation requirements.
9What is Caja or CCSS?
Caja or CCSS refers to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, which runs the public healthcare and pension system. Residents are required to enroll and pay contributions based on their income.
10Where can I verify the latest immigration rules for Costa Rica?
The most reliable sources are the official Immigration website (DGME), Costa Rican consulates and current legal publications. Immigration regulations can change, and each case is different, so it’s important to confirm details with official sources before making travel or legal decisions.
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