Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa: 10 Key Things for a Successful Application
This guide covers everything you need to know before applying for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa: eligibility requirements, application process, benefits, taxes, and important tips for remote workers ready to enjoy the Pura Vida life.
1. What Is the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa?
The Costa Rica digital nomad visa is a remote work visa for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers who earn income outside of Costa Rica. It allows you to legally live and work in Costa Rica for one year, extendable for another year, while enjoying a low cost of living, warm climate, and modern amenities.
Unlike a tourist visa (90-day stay), this visa permits extended residence with the ability to legally work remotely.
2. Who Can Apply for the Digital Nomad Permit?
- Stable income: $3,000/month (or $4,000/month if applying with family).
- All income must originate outside Costa Rica.
- Valid health insurance covering your entire stay.
- Clean criminal record from your home country.
If you meet these requirements, you’re eligible to apply and start enjoying life in Costa Rica.
3. Top Benefits of the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa
- Tax-free: No Costa Rica income tax on foreign earnings.
- Legal status: You can live and work remotely, legally.
- Import exemption: Bring work gear (laptops, cameras) without import taxes.
- Family-friendly: Bring your spouse and children (income requirement increases).
- Extended stay: 1 year, with the option to renew.
- Bank access: Open local accounts; use foreign driver licenses.
4. How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
- Complete the application via Banco de Costa Rica, a Costa Rican embassy, or online.
- Submit proof of income (bank statements, notarized contracts).
- Obtain a criminal background check from your home country.
- Show valid health insurance covering your entire stay.
- Pay the application fee (typically $100–$140 USD); wait 2–4 weeks for approval.
Once approved, you’ll receive an entry stamp and can legally work in Costa Rica.
5. Income Requirements
- $3,000/month for single applicants.
- $4,000/month if applying with spouse or children.
Proof via bank statements, contracts, or certified financial records is mandatory.
6. Visa Duration & Extensions
The visa permits 1 year in Costa Rica, and can be extended if you reside at least 180 days. Extendable upon meeting same ongoing requirements.
7. Do Digital Nomads Pay Taxes?
- ✅ No income tax in Costa Rica on foreign-earned income.
- ✅ No local business tax if working remotely for foreign clients/employers.
- 🔻 Import taxes may apply for personal belongings unrelated to work.
8. Can You Bring Your Family?
Yes. You can bring your spouse and children if you show monthly income of $4,000.
- Marriage or birth certificates (official Spanish translations required).
- Health insurance coverage for all dependents.
9. Documents Needed
- Completed application form.
- Bank statements and signed affidavit or certified financial records.
- Valid passport with entry documentation.
- Proof of health insurance valid throughout your stay.
- Criminal background check from home country.
Translations into Spanish must be official. A certified Costa Rican translator may be required.
10. Final Tips for Living in Costa Rica
- Prepare all documents thoroughly before applying.
- Costa Rica offers excellent coworking spaces and strong remote-work infrastructure.
- The affordable cost of living is a major advantage.
- If already in the country, check if exiting and re-entering is needed for application.
Why Choose the Costa Rica Remote Work Visa?
- 🌴 Live and work in paradise, legally and stress‑free.
- ✅ No Costa Rica tax on foreign income earned.
- Quick and streamlined application process.
- ✅ Family-friendly: bring your spouse & children.
- Your path to permanent residency in Costa Rica starts here!
Let AG Legal’s expert migration team handle your digital nomad visa — every step, hassle‑free!
Associated with the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply while inside Costa Rica?
Yes – but most applicants need to exit and re-enter the country to finalize the process.
2. Is a translator or translated documents required?
Official documents must be translated into Spanish by a certified translator; this is mandatory for legal processing.
3. How long does the visa approval process take?
Usually between 2 to 4 weeks after submitting a complete application.
4. Can I open a bank account with this visa?
Most banks accept this visa, but policies may vary; check with the bank before applying.
5. Can I bring my pet or personal belongings?
Personal belongings are allowed, but import taxes may apply if items are not work-related.
6. Can this visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes – after your visa period ends, you can explore Costa Rica’s permanent residency pathways.