COSTA RICA
Known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, Costa Rica is a prime holiday and relocation destination and a pioneer of ecotourism. The country has a strong commitment to protecting human rights and provides residents with a high standard of living.
INVESTMENT
USD 150,000 under the Investor Residency category
KEY BENEFIT
The right to live and retire anywhere in Costa Rica
THE COSTA RICA RESIDENCE BY INVESTMENT PROGRAM
Costa Rica offers a business-friendly landscape, a favorable tax regime, and a safe environment. For those who wish to reside in this Central American nation with a steadily growing upper-middle-income economy, the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program is the most efficient way to acquire such status. Under this program, applicants can contribute to the country’s economy and become Costa Rican residents within nine to twelve months, with the possibility to acquire citizenship after seven years (or five years for Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish citizens).
BENEFITS OF COSTA RICAN RESIDENCE BY INVESTMENT
Business-friendly environment, with supportive business policies and a strategic location for trade
Favorable tax regime
Ability to include a spouse and children under the age of 18, as well as single, dependent adult children under 25
Eligibility to apply for citizenship after five years of residence for Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish citizens, and after seven years for other nationalities
REQUIREMENTS OF THE COSTA RICA RESIDENCE BY INVESTMENT PROGRAM
To obtain residence in Costa Rica, applicants must have a clear criminal record and a valid entry visa.
Apply under one of the following categories:
Investor Residency category
Applicants must invest USD 150,000 into one of the following options:
1.Real estate
2.Shares of an operational Costa Rican corporation
3.The Costa Rican stock market
4.Retired People category
Applicants must receive a monthly lifetime pension of at least USD 1,000. The pension may be provided by a government or private entity.
Fixed-Income Residency category
Applicants must receive a monthly income of at least USD 2,500 from abroad or in Costa Rica. The income must originate from their investments or business.
PROCEDURES FOR COSTA RICAN RESIDENCE BY INVESTMENT
After the necessary documents have been prepared, the application for residence is filed with the Immigration Department. Once the application has been approved and the requirements fulfilled, successful applicants must register for social security within 90 days.
Individuals are granted a temporary residence permit that is valid for two years and renewable for a further two years. To maintain residence status, residents must keep their investment or continue to receive a monthly pension or income (depending on the chosen program option), visit Costa Rica once a year (for at least one day), and maintain their social security registration.
ACQUIRING COSTA RICAN CITIZENSHIP AFTER THE RESIDENCE BY INVESTMENT PROGRAM
Successful applicants are eligible to apply for citizenship after seven years of residence in Costa Rica. Citizens of Central America, Ibero-America, and Spain are eligible to apply after only five years of residence.
COSTA RICA RESIDENCE BY INVESTMENT PROGRAM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program?
The Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program offers residence to individuals and their families through significant economic contributions to the country.
What are the investment options available for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program?
Investment options include real estate, shares of a Costa Rican corporation, or the Costa Rican stock market. Alternatively, qualify by receiving a lifetime pension or a monthly income from investments or business.
What are the benefits of obtaining Costa Rican residence through investment?
Benefits include the right to live and study in Costa Rica, access to a tropical climate and natural beauty, and a favorable tax regime.
What is the minimum investment required for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program?
The minimum investment starts at USD 150,000 for real estate purchases or shares of a Costa Rican corporation or the Costa Rican stock market.
How long does it take to process an application for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program?
Processing times for residence by investment applications may vary. Please contact us to find out more.
Can family members be included in the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program application?
Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse and dependent children in their application.
What are the residence requirements for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program?
Applicants must spend at least one day per year in Costa Rica to maintain their residence status.
What documents are required for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program application?
Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment or contribution, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents.
Is it possible to obtain Costa Rican citizenship through the residence by investment program?
Yes, after maintaining residence for seven years (or in certain cases five years), investors may be eligible to apply for Costa Rican citizenship.
What is the process for applying to the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program?
Applicants must choose a qualifying investment, submit the application with the necessary documents, and undergo a due diligence process.