🇨🇷 Work Permit in Costa Rica
Get to know Costa Rica’s work visa system—a practical guide for expats, digital nomads, and investors who want to live and work legally in Costa Rica. Below, you’ll find all the essential requirements, procedures, document checklists, and key legal options to work in paradise with confidence.
🛂 What Is a Work Visa and Work Permit?
A work visa lets foreign nationals work legally in Costa Rica. A work permit specifically authorizes you to take employment with a Costa Rican company. Unlike a tourist visa (which does not permit work), official authorization is required for any legal employment in the country.
Types of Costa Rica Work Permits
- Temporary Residence Permit (Employee): Sponsored by a Costa Rican employer.
- Rentista Visa: For freelancers/self-employed with steady income.
- Investor Visa: For entrepreneurs investing in the local economy.
- Digital Nomad Visa: Work remotely in Costa Rica for a foreign company.
- Permanent Residency: Granted after several years of legal stay.
Who Needs a Work Visa?
Anyone planning to work—whether for a Costa Rican business, a foreign employer, or as a freelancer—must obtain an appropriate work visa or permit. While some countries can visit as tourists, tourist status does not allow employment. For stays over 90 days with the intent to work, you must secure the correct immigration category before arrival.
How to Apply for a Work Permit: Step by Step
- Secure a job offer if needed (employee visa) or prepare evidence of income/investment (for other visas).
- Gather required documents: valid passport, job contract (or income proof), police clearance, and any health certificates.
- Submit your application to a Costa Rican consulate or directly in Costa Rica (varies by visa).
- Wait for government approval; timelines range from 3 months to 8+ months depending on visa type and process.
- On arrival, register with local authorities and begin work legally.
*If your employer is registered with the Ministry of Migration, the process may be faster.
Work Permit Requirements: Document Checklist
| Document | Who Needs It? |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | All visas/permits |
| Job Contract / Proof of Income | Employee, Rentista, Digital Nomad, Investor |
| Police Clearance Certificate | All visas/permits |
| Birth Certificate | All visas/permits |
| Application Fee | All visas/permits |
Temporary and Permanent Residency
- Temporary residency: Most foreigners begin here. Permits are usually renewed every 1–2 years.
- Permanent residency: Available after three years as a temporary resident—lets you work for any employer and offers a direct path to citizenship.
🌎 Digital Nomad Visa: Work Remotely in Paradise
- Valid for 1 year (renewable)
- No income tax in Costa Rica
- Fast-tracked approval process
- Proof of income: $3,000/mo (single), $4,000/mo (families)
💼 Investor Visa: Start a Business in Costa Rica
- Invest at least $150,000 USD in real estate, business, or tourism project
- Path to permanent residency and inclusion of full family
FAQs: Work Permits & Visas
Can I work in Costa Rica without a visa?
How long does a work visa take?
Can freelancers obtain a visa?
Ready to Secure Your Work Permit in Costa Rica?
The process can seem daunting, but AG Legal offers transparent, expert help for every visa category. Let us smooth your transition and help you live and work legally in Costa Rica.