US citizens can enter and stay in Costa Rica for up to 3 months without being requested to apply for visas. Things change for those interested in moving to Costa Rica from USA on the long term. However, they have several choices in terms of residence permits.
If you want to immigrate to Costa Rica from USA and the main ways you can relocate here, our immigration specialists are at your service. You can rely on us for support in immigration to Costa Rica from USA, as well as in starting a business here.
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The main ways through which one can immigrate to Costa Rica from USA
Americans moving to Costa Rica for more than 90 days must apply for one of the following types of residence permits:
- short-term permit;
- long-term permit.
Any of them will enable an American citizen to obtain permanent residency and even citizenship in Costa Rica if desired.
Business immigration is also available for American entrepreneurs who can rely on our company formation officers in Costa Rica for registering a legal entity here. We can also offer detailed information about how to immigrate to Costa Rica.
The simplest way of moving to Costa Rica from USA is by applying for a temporary residence permit under one of the 2 programs available:
- the one dedicated to retired persons;
- the one dedicated to those who can sustain themselves while living here.
The main advantage of this type of residence permit is that it enables immigration to Costa Rica from the United States with one’s family.
Feel free to ask about how you can relocate here through this type of visa. We are also at the service of foreigners who want to work from here as digital nomads.
You must select the best-case scenario if you wish to move to Costa Rica. Although many businesspeople choose to invest, there are other ways to accomplish that as well. Depending on your preference, our experts can offer specialized assistance. If you need help deciding on a good option, get in touch with us.
Moving to Costa Rica from USA and becoming a permanent resident
Living in Costa Rica as an American for a minimum period of 3 years can lead to permanent residency. The easiest way to obtain a permanent residence permit is through the one of the 2 temporary visas presented above. However, Americans moving to Costa Rica this way must submit the following financial proof:
- retired persons must have a minimum monthly income of $1,000;
- the same income threshold applies to married couples retiring to Costa Rica;
- those who want to live here through independent means must secure a minimum of $2,500 per month for a minimum period of 2 years;
- the entire amount of $60,000 must be deposited in a local bank account.
Our local consultants can help you set up a bank account in Costa Rica.
Unless you want to apply for citizenship, the permanent residence permit must be renewed every 5 years. However, many Americans love living here and decide to apply for citizenship which can be acquired after 7 years. Our immigration lawyers in Costa Rica can also help you apply for a Costa Rican passport.
There are several ways to gain citizenship in Costa Rica, however, all of them entail obtaining permanent residency first. This type of permit can be obtained by various means and provided that the candidate is eligible for it. Feel free to address our immigration lawyers for details and support in determining whether you meet these conditions or not and how you can find another option.
Buying real estate in Costa Rica as an American
One of the most appealing parts of moving to Costa Rica from the United States of America is the possibility of acquiring a property without any hassle. Real estate here is cheaper compared to the USA, not to mention the fact that the USD is accepted, so there is no need to go through currency exchange procedures.
Considering the living costs in Costa Rica are more than 26% cheaper compared to the US, immigration to Costa Rica from USA becomes a very convenient option. Moreover, renting a property here is 60% cheaper compared to the United States. Expats in Costa Rica usually need between $1,000 and $2,500 to live comfortably here, which is one of the main reasons to immigrate here.
Income-based residency in Costa Rica is one of the most important benefits of moving there. The main ways through which it can be obtained are by renting a property as a self-sufficient person or as retiree. Each category of applicants must meet specific income requirements, however, the affordable costs associated with the program make it quite appealing to people from all over the world.
According to the US State Department, there are approximately 70,000 Americans living in Costa Rica.
We are at your service if you want to move to Costa Rica. From support in preparing and filing the documents to residence permit renewal, you can rely on us for various immigration matters. Get in touch with us no matter if you are in or outside Costa Rica and let us know how we can help you in accordance with your plans.
If you need to immigrate to Costa Rica, contact us for details on your relocation options. Our immigration lawyers in Costa Rica are at your service with complete services.