Costa Rica

Costa Rican naturalization route under constitutional articles 14 to 16. The Constitution sets a five-year residence threshold for nationals of other Central American countries, Spaniards, and Ibero-Americans by birth, a seven-year threshold for other foreigners and non-birth members of those groups, and a two-year marriage-and-residence route for spouses of Costa Rican citizens. Applicants must also show good conduct, a known occupation or means of living, Spanish literacy, knowledge of Costa Rican history and values, and an oath to respect the constitutional order.

Non-resident estancia subcategory for foreign nationals who work or provide services remotely for persons or entities outside Costa Rica and are paid from abroad.

• 1 year, renewable
• Remote/foreign employment only

Temporary-resident investor subcategory for foreigners who make a qualifying investment in Costa Rica.

• 2 years, renewable
• No work rights
• Path to residency

Temporary-resident pensionado subcategory for foreigners who prove a stable foreign pension.

• 2 years, renewable
• Limited work rights
• Path to residency

Permanent-resident category for foreigners granted indefinite residence, including people who have held temporary residence for three consecutive years and qualifying first-degree relatives of Costa Rican citizens.

Temporary-resident rentista subcategory for foreigners who prove stable monthly rent or other recurring income.

• 2 years, renewable
• Limited work rights
• Path to residency

Non-resident tourist category for foreign nationals admitted to Costa Rica for stays under 90 days. The law allows pre-expiry extensions when the applicant proves sufficient means to subsist.

• 90 days, renewable
• No work rights

Employer-sponsored work authorization under Costa Rica's occupation-specific worker category. The regulation covers applications filed by a legal entity or an individual employer, grants the permit for one year, and allows annual renewal while the approved employment conditions continue.

• 1 year, renewable
• Employer-sponsored only