Known as the Golden Visa (Inversionista) Residency Programme, Costa Rica’s Investor Visa has been established to welcome foreign nationals seeking residency through investment in this beautiful Central American nation. It is an excellent solution for individuals looking to enjoy a high quality of life in a country celebrated for its biodiversity, political stability, and sustainable development. With support from Lexen Law, applicants can explore a variety of investment pathways, whether through real estate, business ventures, or government-approved projects.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers a welcoming lifestyle with a mild tropical climate, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a culture rooted in peace and hospitality. It is a nation that embraces “Pura Vida” — a philosophy of simple living, happiness, and connection to nature.
Benefits of Residence by Investment in Costa Rica
- The right to live, work, study, and establish business in Costa Rica.
- Access to Costa Rica’s universal healthcare system (CCSS) and quality education.
- Residency permit initially valid for 2 years, renewable while the investment is maintained.
- Eligible for permanent residence after 3 years.
- Eligible for citizenship after 7 years (5 years for nationals of Ibero-American countries and Spain).
- Family reunification rights spouse and dependent children can be included without additional investment.
- Favourable territorial tax system only locally generated income is taxable, foreign income is exempt.
General Requirements
- Valid passport and clean criminal record certificate.
- Minimum qualifying investment of USD 150,000 (USD 100,000 for forestry).
- Proof of legal source of investment funds.
- Registration with Costa Rica’s social security system (CCSS) within 90 days of residency approval.
- Evidence that the investment is registered under the applicant’s name (not a corporation).
Investment Options
- Real Estate or Personal Property – minimum USD 150,000.
- Business or Company Investment – shares or direct investment into a Costa Rican enterprise (USD 150,000).
- Government-approved Forestry Projects – minimum USD 100,000.
- Projects of National Interest – certified by Costa Rican authorities with feasibility studies.
Path to Costa Rican Citizenship
- Temporary Residency: Granted for 2 years, renewable while investment is maintained.
- Permanent Residency: Available after 3 years of continuous residency (with a minimum of 1 day per year in the country).
- Citizenship: Eligible after 7 years of residency (5 years for certain nationalities). Applicants must demonstrate Spanish language proficiency and pass a naturalization exam on Costa Rican history and culture.
Application Process
- Choose an eligible investment option (real estate, business, forestry, or national interest project).
- Submit application with supporting documentation to the Directorate of Immigration (DGME).
- Provide proof of investment funds and clean criminal record.
- Register with social security (CCSS) within 90 days of residency approval.
- Receive temporary residence permit (valid for 2 years).
- Renew and maintain residency until eligible for permanent residency or citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to obtain residency in Costa Rica?
A: Processing typically takes 9–15 months; delays up to 18 months are possible.
Q: Can I include my family in the application?
A: Yes. Spouses and dependent children (up to age 25, or any age if disabled) can be included without additional investment.
Q: Do I have to live in Costa Rica full-time?
A: No. The requirement is only 1 day per year to maintain residency.
Q: When can I apply for citizenship?
A: After 7 years of residency (or 5 years for Ibero-American and Spanish citizens).
Q: Is foreign income taxed in Costa Rica?
A: No. Costa Rica applies a territorial tax system only locally generated income is taxed.
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