Question 1

Which Costa Rica residency is cheapest?

Accepted Answer

Pensionado at USD 1,000/month is the lowest bar, but it requires a lifetime pension (Social Security, government pension, or defined-benefit annuity). Digital Nomad has the fastest processing but does not count toward permanent residency.

Question 2

Does Costa Rica have a digital nomad visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Ley del Nómada Digital (2022) grants a 1-year visa (renewable once) for remote workers earning USD 3,000+/month (USD 4,000 with family). It exempts you from local income tax on foreign earnings and lets you drive on your foreign license.

Question 3

Can I get citizenship in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Yes. After 7 years of legal residency (5 for nationals of Spain and Ibero-American countries, 2 if married to a Costa Rican), you may apply for naturalization. Costa Rica allows dual citizenship.

Question 4

Do I have to live in Costa Rica full-time to keep residency?

Accepted Answer

Temporary residents must enter Costa Rica at least once per year. Permanent residents must not be absent from the country for more than 4 consecutive years.

Question 5

Can I work in Costa Rica on a residency visa?

Accepted Answer

Pensionado and Rentista permits do not authorize employment by a Costa Rican company (you may own a business and receive dividends). Permanent Residency and Inversionista permits allow full work rights.