Dive into everything you need to know about securing Costa Rican residency through investment. You’ll learn the latest requirements, how to include your family, the path to citizenship, and some lesser-known options that can save you money.

What Is the Costa Rica Investor Visa?

Costa Rica offers foreign nationals the chance to live—and eventually work—as residents by investing in the country (opens in new tab). You’ll gain:

• Legal residency status
• Access to public healthcare and education
• The option to bring your spouse and dependents
• A clear path to permanent residency and citizenship

Investment Requirements and Options

To qualify, you must make a minimum investment in one of the approved sectors:

1. Real estate, business, or government-approved projects:
   US $150,000 (reduced from US $200,000 in 2023), reflecting the latest update to the Costa Rica Investor Visa Investment Thresholds (opens in new tab).
2. Forest plantations:
   US $100,000, thanks to a special lower threshold for reforestation initiatives in Costa Rica (opens in new tab).

You’ll need official proof of purchase or corporate documentation and bank statements demonstrating the legal origin of your funds.

Types of Eligible Investments

• Real Estate: Property titles registered at the National Registry
• Business Ventures: Articles of incorporation and capital contribution records
• Government-Approved Projects: Certificates issued by the Costa Rican Development Agency
• Forest Plantations: Reforestation contracts and environmental ministry approvals

Temporary vs. Permanent Residency

Costa Rica’s investor visa begins as a temporary permit, renewable every two years. To maintain it, you must:

• Visit Costa Rica at least once annually
• File renewal documents six months before expiration

After three years of temporary residency, you can apply for permanent residency (opens in new tab). At that stage:

• You’re allowed to work as an employee (not just run your own business)
• Renewals occur every four years instead of two

Bringing Your Family Along

Under temporary residency, your spouse and dependents (children under 25) are included automatically. For permanent residency, each family member must file individually—but the process mirrors yours.

Path to Naturalization and Dual Citizenship

Once you hold permanent residency for five years, you can seek naturalization. Requirements include:

• Demonstrating basic Spanish proficiency
• Passing a written test on Costa Rican history and values
• Two witnesses (Costa Rican citizens) testifying to your good conduct
• No need to renounce your original citizenship; Costa Rica allows dual nationality (opens in new tab)

“The final step to become truly Costa Rican is committing to local culture and community,” said José Campos, Costa Rica immigration attorney.

Maintenance: Income and Consular Registration

Beyond your initial investment, you must show ongoing means of support:

• A minimum monthly income of US $2,000 (opens in new tab) from abroad or investment returns
• Enrollment with your home country’s embassy or consulate in San José

Next Steps on Your Costa Rican Journey

Congratulations—you now have a roadmap to residency, family inclusion, and future citizenship in Costa Rica. Whether you choose beachfront real estate, a new business, or sustainable forest planting, this visa unlocks a new chapter under the “Pura Vida” lifestyle.

Make sure to engage qualified legal counsel, gather your documents early, and plan annual visits to keep your status active. Soon enough, you’ll call Costa Rica home.