Relocating to Costa Rica is possible. With our guide, you can start organizing your transfer today. The country boasts incredible beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife—something definitely worth considering. But what are the steps involved in moving to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica Tourist Visa
Citizens of the US and certain other countries have the privilege to visit Costa Rica without a tourist visa. This can last for up to 90 days, but minors need to carry their own travel documents.
If you are from a country that requires a tourist visa to visit Costa Rica, then you will need to personally go to the Costa Rican consulate in your home country with a visa request. You’ll need to provide information such as your full name, nationality, passport number, date and place of birth, home address, e-mail, and phone number.
You must also disclose the reason for your trip and its duration, your place of arrival in the country, your profession/occupation, and a Costa Rican address where you plan on staying.
You will also need to fill out an official application form and provide the following documents:
- Documentation of lawful residency in the nation where you are from
- A passport that has been valid for at least six months, plus a photocopy of your passport
- A passport-sized color photo
- A clean, up-to-date criminal record
- Your travel itinerary including where you plan on staying
- Proof of sufficient funds for travel – at least US $300
- Any additional paperwork your consulate requires
Make sure to budget extra time in your visa application process for approval and processing, which entails a fee of approximately US $32.
If you have plans to stay in Costa Rica for more than three months, it’s best to go through the process of establishing residency. During that time, your stay will be extended as you go through with the application process.
Those looking to visit Costa Rica as students, volunteers, academics, or researchers can apply for a Provisional Visa.
Costa Rica Work Visa
Costa Rica has implemented stringent laws for obtaining a work visa due to their commitment to giving priority to its citizens. There is a special category of immigration for work permits, and each permit has specific restrictions.
You might be able to get a work permit in Costa Rica if a local isn’t available to fill the position you’re applying for. Keep in mind that the criteria for obtaining these permits are subject to change. Here are some categories that may be eligible for a Costa Rica work permit:
- Maintenance and repair employees
- Professional technical employees
- Domestic employees
- Temporary employees
- Trans-frontier workers
- Athletes, entertainers, and artists
A work visa, if granted, is only valid for the duration of your contracted job. However, certain resident permits stretch further and offer the possibility to freelance or even manage a business.
How to Get a Costa Rica Work Visa
Firstly, you’ll have to find an employer who’s interested in you. After that, you must obtain a temporary residence permit in order to enter the country. Finally, once inside the country, you and your employer can apply for a work visa from the Dirección General de Migración y ExtranjerÃa (Immigration Department).
Before traveling to Costa Rica, you’ll need to provide supporting documents that must be officially translated and notarized. Ensure you obtain them in advance of your trip.
Generally, it takes 3 to 8 months to get through the application process; however, it can take longer in some cases.
Temporary Residence in Costa Rica
Costa Rica provides different varieties of temporary residency permits tailored to specific requirements. Spanish citizens have the privilege of applying for permanent residence right away.
Here are some temporary residency options available for Costa Rica:
- Temporary Pensionado (Retiree) Residency
- Temporary Rentista (Fixed Income) Residency
- Temporary Investor Residency
- Temporary Residency for Spouses
Permanent Residence and Costa Rica Citizenship
After having spent three years as a retiree, on a fixed income or from investments in Costa Rica, you can apply for permanent residency. With this status change, it will be possible to gain an income from the country itself. You may also be able to gain permanent residence without needing to go through temporary residence if you are the parent of a Costa Rican.
For those with permanent residency status, it is required that you visit Costa Rica at least once per year.
A permanent residence permit is specific to each individual and does not extend to their dependents. It must be renewed every 5 years. If you are interested in acquiring Costa Rican citizenship, contact a Costa Rica immigration lawyer for advice.
Moving from the US to Costa Rica
The US has 10 Costa Rican consulates for individuals looking to begin the visa application process for relocating to this amazing country. So, if you are considering moving to Costa Rica, these consulates can help you get started.
Moving Your Goods and Pets to Costa Rica
Importing goods into Costa Rica usually entails paying customs duties ranging from 1-15%, with the rate depending on the estimated value of the item. However, if you’re looking to import a car that is less than 3 years old, the tax can jump up to an astounding 52.29%.
While pets don’t have to worry about a microchip or quarantine, it is necessary to have proof of their vaccinations. If you are planning on relocating to Costa Rica, it would be wise to consult an expert Costa Rica immigration lawyer.
Banking in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, customers have the option to choose between two types of banks: state-owned and private. The former is more accessible, while the latter provides a more customized experience. Unlike private ones, state-run banks don’t generate profit and guarantee no limit insurance on any amount you deposit.
Depending on your residency status, the banking institution you can open an account with may be limited. Opening an account usually involves providing the necessary documents and is best done in person. Most banks don’t charge any fee to open an account, but there could be a minimum deposit requirement.
If you are planning to relocate to Costa Rica, many banks provide the facility of banking in dual currencies, making it easier for you to make international funds transfers from your homeland without any complications.
Tax in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is no longer a tax haven and no taxes are required to be paid on money not earned within its borders. However, it is necessary to pay income tax in the country of origin for any earned money.
If you are eligible to earn money in Costa Rica, income generated from both employment and non-employment sources (e.g. rental income) is subject to taxation. Tax paid on properties is quite low but the rate for sales tax stands at 13%, while companies earning revenue over US$191,000 have to pay a corporation tax of around 30%.
Contact a Reputable Immigration Lawyer Today and Start Living La Pura Vida!
Traveling to Costa Rica? You should definitely familiarize yourself with the popular phrase “Pura Vida” which translates to “Pure Life”. It is used by locals both as a greeting and an expression of approval – so make sure you practice saying it before you visit!
When beginning your journey in Costa Rica, the most important step is to obtain a visa and a reputable Costa Rica immigration lawyer can be of great help to guide you through it. We highly suggest using one for a stress-free process. Contact us today to get started!