Digital Nomad Visa in Costa Rica

Obtaining a digital nomad visa for Costa Rica is one of the most flexible ways of staying long-term in this country (as a non-resident, not a residence permit). Discover the particularities of this type of visa below and rely on our specialists for support with the application.

Who can obtain a digital nomad visa in Costa Rica?

Any foreign citizen who is considered a digital nomad and who has the minimum income required under the conditions of the visa. Specifically, the visa addresses:

• remote workers;
• freelancers;
• self-employed persons;
• business owners.

For those interested, we can also assist with company formation services in Costa Rica.

What is the minimum income to obtain a Costa Rican digital nomad visa?

USD 3,000 per month.

What is the procedure to apply for a digital nomad visa in Costa Rica?

You can apply while in the country, if you are here for tourism purposes, for example, or directly from your home country.

What are the documents to prepare to obtain a Costa Rican digital nomad visa?

• the specific application form;
• a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months;
• valid health insurance with a minimum value of USD 50,000;
• proof of income from abroad (employment contract, invoices, freelancing agreements, etc.);
• a declaration stating the intention to work remotely;
• bank statement(s) showing self-sufficiency.

NOTE: Foreign-issued documents must be translated into Spanish before submission.

Can I bring family with me based on my Costa Rican digital nomad visa?

Yes, you can bring your spouse and children, including adult ones.

What are the requirements to bring family members with me through a digital nomad visa?

The freelance visa holder may sponsor the spouse, children under the age of 25, children with disabilities of any age, and parents and parents-in-law who reside with them.

A minimum income of USD 4,000 per month is required when bringing family members. Additionally, you will need to submit supporting paperwork, such as:

• if you are the spouse’s sponsor, you must present a marriage license that was just granted within the last six months;
• another document proving your relationship with your life partner (the document cannot be older than 6 months);
• birth certificates for the children;
• for a person with disability, documentation of their medical condition;
• parents and in-laws need to prove their relationship or familial ties with the main applicant.

Where do I submit the documents?

You can submit them with the nearest Costa Rican Embassy if you are abroad. If you are in the country, you must file them with the General Immigration Department through our local specialists.

How long does it take for a digital nomad visa for Costa Rica to be issued?

After submitting your application, it will take about 15 days for it to be processed. If accepted, the immigration office will give you a list of the necessary paperwork, which you must submit within 8 days of receiving it.

You will get the final answer in the next 15 days after submitting the extra paperwork. Finally, you have 3 months to obtain your residence permit following the application’s approval. Consequently, it can take up to 2 months to process your full application and get your residence permit.

What is the validity of a Costa Rican digital nomad visa? Can it be renewed?

The validity is one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to 2 years.

Can I obtain permanent residency in Costa Rica through a remote worker visa?

Not directly: the digital nomad stay is a non-resident category; you can apply for permanent residency only after being there for at least three years with a residence permit.

If you want to apply for a Costa Rican remote worker visa or for immigration to Costa Rica, please contact our local specialists for assistance.