In order to legally work in Costa Rica, you must either be a citizen of the country or have legal permanent residence. Permanent residence or citizenship are the only two immigration statuses that carry no restrictions. Other residence options (rentista, pensionado, etc.) are considered temporary.

How can an American immigrate to Costa Rica?

There are a few ways that you can move to Costa Rica as a foreign citizen. According to the Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington, DC, you can enter the country as a permanent or temporary resident; on a tourist visa; or after receiving a permit for working, volunteering, or studying.

How long can a US resident stay in Costa Rica?

90 days
US passport must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica. As a tourist US nationals cannot stay more than 90 days. For a stay longer than 90 days a residence permit must be established.

Can an American retire in Costa Rica?

If you plan to live in Costa Rica, you should consider applying for residence. There are several categories available. The most popular for retirees is pensionado. Those seeking a pensionado visa needs to prove a minimum income of $1,000 per month from a qualified pension or retirement account or from Social Security.

How hard is it to get residency in Costa Rica?

Rentista Residency in Costa Rica Requires proof of US $2,500 per month income for at least two years, guaranteed by a banking institution, OR a US $60,000 deposit in an approved Costa Rican bank. One amount covers the family. Must visit Costa Rica at least once a year.

Can I collect Social Security if I move to Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica retirees from the U.S. have two options for receiving their Social Security benefits. If you are a U.S. citizen, you are able to continue to collect retirement, disability or survivors benefits while overseas as long as you are eligible to receive them.

How much does it cost to get residency in Costa Rica?

The cost of Residency is divided into Government related fees, translator fees and Attorney fees as follows: Government Fees to Apply = $250 ($50 application Fee and $200 Change of Status fee when you apply in Costa Rica. Translations. These vary depending on the documents and your translator but expect around $ 250.

Can you collect Social Security if you live in Costa Rica?

According to the U.S. Department of State, more than 20,000 U.S. expatriates live in Costa Rica, many of them as retirees. That’s because Costa Rica has one of the highest standards of living in Central America.

What is the highest paying job in Costa Rica?

1. Surgeons / Doctors. Salary Range: from 4,220,000 CRC to 13,800,000 CRC.
2. Judges. Salary Range: from 3,540,000 CRC to 11,600,000 CRC.
3. Lawyers. Salary Range: from 2,870,000 CRC to 9,380,000 CRC.
4. Bank Managers.
5. Chief Executive Officers.
6. Chief Financial Officers.
7. Orthodontists.
8. College Professors.

Can a U.S. citizen have dual citizenship with Costa Rica?

Costa Rica permits dual citizenship.

How to become a legal resident of Costa Rica?

Requires proof of US $2,500 per month income for at least two years, guaranteed by a banking institution, OR a US $60,000 deposit in an approved Costa Rican bank. One amount covers the family. Must visit Costa Rica at least once a year. Can claim spouse and dependents under 18 years of age. Cannot work as an employee.

How to enter Costa Rica as an US citizen?

U.S. citizens with permanent or temporary Costa Rican residency may enter Costa Rica via air regardless of where they are coming from and must present the following documentation: 1) passport, 2) Valid DIMEX, 3) evidence Caja payments are up to date for each person entering, and 4) a completed Health Pass (Pase de Salud).

How often do you have to renew your residency in Costa Rica?

Permanent Residency. Permanent residency must be renewed every year, but does not expire. Permanent residents may legally work in Costa Rica. A first-degree relationship includes parents and children (under age 25) of Costa Rican citizens, minor siblings of Costa Rican citizens, and parents or siblings of disabled Costa Rican citizens.

How long can you live in Costa Rica as a foreigner?

Costa Rican residency grants foreign nationals the legal right to live in Costa Rica. If you plan to permanently relocate to Costa Rica, you should become a legal resident. Temporary Residency. Temporary residency allows foreigners the right to live in Costa Rica for a set period of time, usually one to five years.