RESIDENCY

How to stay in Costa Rica:

The requirements to enter Costa Rica depend on your country of nationality. Generally, citizens of the United States, Canada and the European Union countries do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. With their passport they can enter Costa Rica and remain in the country for up to a maximum of 90 days.

There are 4 options that most people use to stay in Costa Rica longer then 90 days:

Tourist:
You are allowed to stay in the country of Costa Rica for 90 days on your tourist visa.If you plan to stay longer then 90 days simply leave the country for a 72 hour period, and then return to Costa Rica. Leaving the country for a 72 hour period will reset your tourist visa and allow you to stay another 90 days. There are many individuals that live full time in Costa Rica and use this method.
Retiree or “Pensionado”:
The Pensionado (Retiree) applicant must demonstrate a permanent fixed income from a pension or similar retirement income of at least US$600 per month<. A married couple only has to show proof of one pension in the amount of $600 or more to qualify for both persons.
Legal Resident or “Rentista”:
Individuals must show proof of a verifiable monthly source of income of at least $1000 per month that is payable to the applicant for a minimum time period of 5 years. For married applicants, each spouse must show $1000 monthly in income and an additional $500 per month for each child.
Investor or “Inversionista”:
Under the new immigration law the Investor Category requires an applicant to demonstrate to the Department of Immigration that they will be coming to Costa Rica to invest in the country a minimum of $200,000. The investment must provide an economic and social benefit to Cost Rica. The law specifically excludes personal investments such as purchase of home, lots or buildings to qualify for this category.

Most people retiring or relocating to Costa Rica initially take the tourist route because it does not involve any paperwork, and many people enjoy the opportunity to go to Panama where American goods can be purchased cheaply

If you choose to start the process for residency either as a retiree, legal resident, or investor you will need to provide the following documentation to the Costa Rican authorities:

Certified copy of your birth certificate
Notarized letter from your local police authority(stating you are a good citizen)
Current passport and 8 passport size photos
Certified marriage certificate(if applying jointly)
Retirees and legal residents need a notarized proof of income letter

Whether you choose to immediately start the process to become a resident of Costa Rica or simply take a 3 day “vacation” every 90 days, the Costa Rican authorities have made the process of moving and living in Costa Rica a very simple and uncomplicated matter. The general mindset of the government and all Costa Ricans is one of acceptance and openness toward foreigners and individuals desiring to relocate to this wonderful country.

For more detailed information, consult: www.costaricalaw.com/legalnet/residency.html