Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa: The Full Guide 2025

Updated in January 2025!

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica beckons with its breathtaking natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture.

Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation, this tropical paradise offers much more than just sun-soaked beaches and lush rainforests.

In recent years, Costa Rica has emerged as a hotspot for digital nomads, offering an enticing blend of work, adventure, and exploration.

Through its innovative digital nomad program, Costa Rica invites international residents to live, work, and explore its diverse landscapes while enjoying the famed pura vida lifestyle.

Let’s explore the specifics.

Benefits of the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

Costa Rica’s digital nomad program invites international residents to work remotely while enjoying the country’s pura vida lifestyle. Under this program, visitors can extend their 90-day tourist visa to a full year, with the option to renew for an additional year.

Digital nomads enjoy benefits such as exemption from income tax, the ability to open a national bank account, and the ability to validate their home country’s driver’s license.

They may also avoid customs taxes on necessary telecommunications and electronic devices for remote work (conditions apply).

Legal Benefits

Digital nomads are not considered normal residents for tax purposes, exempting them from certain tax obligations to the Costa Rican Ministry of Finance. They can use their home country’s driver’s license for the duration of their stay.

Requirements for Applicants of the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

If you’re a foreign national or have dependents and want to stay in the country as a Remote Worker or Service Provider, here’s what you’ll need to qualify:

• Fill out and sign the application form, which you can download from the “Form, Regulation, and Legal Aid” section on the official website.
  You can submit it online through the Tramite Ya digital platform or in person at the General Directorate of Immigration (DGEM) offices (central or regional).
• Pay $100 (or the equivalent in Costa Rican colones) to the Government, as required by Article 256 of the General Immigration Law.
  Make the payment to account no. 242480-0 at Banco de Costa Rica and keep proof of payment handy.
• Include a copy of the photo page of your valid passport and the page with your Costa Rican entry stamp if you’re already in the country.
  Make sure your passport is up-to-date, as you’ll need to show it during the process.
• If you need a visa, check the rules outlined in Executive Decree no. 36626-G (about entry visas to Costa Rica) to see what applies to your nationality.
  Some exceptions might apply, so double-check the General Visa Guidelines for Non-Residents.
• Provide bank statements proving you earn at least $3,000 per month (based on the official exchange rate from the Central Bank of Costa Rica). Attach an affidavit confirming the statements came from your bank.
  Alternatively, you can submit a certification from a public accountant or notary (from Costa Rica or abroad), which must be properly legalized or apostilled.
• If any documents are in a language other than Spanish, get them officially translated. For applications involving children or dependents with disabilities, the parent or legal guardian must sign.
  If a representative is submitting the application, include a power of attorney as per the legal requirements.

As part of the legal and national security requirements, getting a visa in this category involves a security review by the Directorate General of Migration and Aliens (DGME). This includes checking criminal and police records using both national and international databases.

For added security, the DGME may also perform biometric checks.

Requirements for Dependants

Spouses, common-law partners, children under 25 (or of any age with disabilities), and seniors living with the remote worker or service provider need to submit the required information listed in items 1–4 for this visa category.

You can find the necessary forms under the “Formularios según Trámite” section on the official website. Forms can be submitted online through the Tramite Ya platform or in person at DGEM’s central or regional offices—whichever works best for you.

To prove family relationships, you’ll need one of the following documents from your home country:

• A marriage certificate issued within the last six months.
• A declaration or recognition of a civil union issued within the last six months by the relevant authority.
• A birth certificate for children under 25 or unmarried minor children.
• A medical certificate confirming the disability of a dependent, if applicable.

For seniors traveling with you, you’ll need to provide an affidavit confirming your family relationship or cohabitation.

How To Get the Digital Nomad Visa Costa Rica: The Procedure

If you’re a foreign national or dependent applying for the Stay (Estancia) program for Remote Workers and Service Providers, here’s what you need to do, whether you’re applying online or in person:

1. Complete the registration process on the digital platform and give your legal consent.
2. For in-person applications, book an appointment through the DGME’s Web Appointments Portal under the “Stay (Estancia) for Digital Nomads” option.
3. Bring all your documents to the Foreign Nationals Administration Service Platform. You can do this at the main DGME office in La Uruca or at regional offices that handle these procedures.
4. What happens next?
   • Once you’ve submitted everything, the DGME has 15 days to decide on your application.
   • Within 5 days, they’ll notify you if anything is missing or if they need more info.
   • You’ll have 8 working days to fix or clarify things.
5. If everything checks out, the DGME will finalize the decision within the remaining 15 days.
6. Miss the 8-day deadline? Your application will be rejected, and the file will be closed, so make sure to stay on top of it!

Immigration Document Issuance Process

Once your legal stay in Costa Rica under the Stay (Estancia) program for Remote Workers is approved, you’ll have three months to complete the immigration process. If you don’t finish it in time, your immigration status might be canceled.

To schedule your documentation appointment, call the Immigration Call Center at 1311 or the Bank of Costa Rica at 800-227-2482.

Here’s what you’ll need to bring to your appointment:

• Proof of payment to the government as specified in your approval resolution (based on Article 215 of the General Immigration Law).
• $90 payment receipt for processing your legal stay documents, certification, and Special Social Immigration Fund fees.
• Deposit receipt for the guarantee required for non-residents in this program, as outlined in Executive Decree 36539-G.
• Your passport—it must be valid and undamaged. If your passport has expired, bring it along with a valid travel document.
• Medical insurance that covers you and your dependents for the entire period of your stay.

Medical Insurance Requirement for Legal Stay

• Coverage Amount: The policy should cover medical expenses for illnesses in Costa Rica, with a minimum of $50,000.
• Duration of Coverage: Ensure the policy remains valid for the entire stay in the country.
• Insurance Providers: Choose insurance companies authorized by Costa Rica’s insurance regulatory authority or opt for international insurance with the required coverage.

For families, each member must have their own policy meeting these criteria. Find the best Digital Nomad Insurance providers here.

Renewal Requirements for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

If you want to renew your stay in Costa Rica under this immigration category, here’s what you’ll need to do:

Minimum Presence

You must show that you’ve been in Costa Rica for at least 80 days, as required by Article 15 of the Law.

Renewal Steps

1. Application Form
   Fill out and sign the application form online through the Tramite Ya platform (https://tramiteya.go.cr/dgme/) or any other official DGME platform.
2. Financial Documentation
   • Provide bank statements with an affidavit confirming that your income comes from outside Costa Rica.
   • You need to show at least $3,000 per month for individual applications or $4,000 per month for family applications.
   • Alternatively, submit a certification from a public accountant or notary public (properly legalized or apostilled).
3. Government Fees
   Pay the required fees outlined in your approval resolution and the legal stay documents, including contributions to the Special Social Immigration Fund.
4. Passport
   Bring your valid passport. If you have any expired passports used for ID purposes, bring those too.
5. Medical Insurance
   Get a medical insurance policy that covers you and your dependents for the entire authorized stay.

How safe is it to live in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is generally a safe place to live, with a low crime rate compared to other countries in Latin America. Here’s a breakdown of some key facts about safety in the country:

Global Peace Ranking

Costa Rica is one of the most peaceful countries in Latin America! In the 2024 Global Peace Index, it ranked 58th out of 163 countries worldwide, remaining the most peaceful country in Central America.

Crime Rates

• The homicide rate in Costa Rica has recently increased. In 2023, the country experienced a surge in violent crime, with the homicide rate rising by over 35%, reflecting changes in drug-trafficking patterns. Despite this, it still remains safer than many other countries in the region.
• Petty crimes, like theft and pickpocketing, can happen in crowded areas, so it’s best to stay aware, especially in tourist spots.

Tourist Safety

Costa Rica takes tourist safety seriously. Popular areas are well-policed, and violent crimes targeting tourists are rare. Just keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing.

Government Actions

To improve safety, the government has:

• Boosted police presence in higher-crime areas.
• Strengthened border security.
• Invested in crime prevention programs.

Areas to Watch Out For

While Costa Rica is mostly safe, some urban areas, like parts of San José, can have higher crime levels. Be cautious at night and stay alert.

Community Policing

The country has also introduced community policing programs to build trust and cooperation between locals and law enforcement, which helps reduce crime.

Natural Disasters

While it’s not about crime, it’s good to know that Costa Rica can experience earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods. The government has solid disaster response plans to keep people safe.

The Bottom Line

Costa Rica is a safe and welcoming place to live, but like anywhere, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

How Family-Friendly is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica’s totally awesome for families! Here’s why:

• Nature Galore: Imagine hiking through cool rainforests, chilling on beautiful beaches, and checking out epic volcanoes like Arenal.
• Adrenaline Rush: Get ready for some serious fun! You can fly through the treetops on zip lines or brave the rapids while whitewater rafting.
• Wildlife Galore: Say hi to some of the coolest critters around! From colorful birds to lazy sloths, you’ll spot all kinds of awesome animals. Don’t forget your camera!
• Sweet Places to Stay: Whether you’re into chill resorts, eco-friendly spots, or cozy rentals, Costa Rica’s got you covered. Plus, lots of places have cool stuff like pools and games for the kiddos.
• Safety First: As written above, Costa Rica’s pretty safe, so you can relax and enjoy your vacay. Just keep an eye out like you would anywhere else, and you’re good to go!
• Culture Vibes: Immerse yourselves in Costa Rica’s awesome culture! Check out local markets, join in on cool festivals, and try your hand at making some traditional dishes.

How to get to Costa Rica

Getting to Costa Rica is relatively easy, with several options available:

• By Air: The most common way to reach Costa Rica is by flying into one of its international airports. The two main airports are Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José, the capital city, and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Guanacaste. These airports receive flights from major cities in North America, Europe, and other parts of the world.
• By Land: If you’re already in a neighboring country, you can also reach Costa Rica by land. Costa Rica shares borders with Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. There are bus services and organized tours that cross these borders, although travel times and routes may vary.
• By Sea: While less common, some travelers opt to arrive in Costa Rica by cruise ship. Cruise ships often dock at ports such as Puntarenas or Puerto Limón, allowing passengers to explore the country’s coastal regions.

Where are the Best Places to Live in Costa Rica?

Some of the best places to live in Costa Rica include:

• San José: As the capital city, San José offers a bustling urban lifestyle with modern amenities, cultural attractions, and a diverse expat community.
  It’s a great option for those who enjoy city living and want access to a wide range of services and entertainment options.
• Guanacaste: Known for its stunning beaches, warm climate, and laid-back atmosphere, Guanacaste is a popular choice for expats seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
  Cities like Tamarindo and Playas del Coco offer excellent amenities and easy access to outdoor activities like surfing, fishing, and snorkeling.
• Central Valley: The Central Valley region, which includes cities like Heredia, Alajuela, and Escazú, offers a temperate climate, lush landscapes, and proximity to San José.
  It’s a favorite among expats looking for a more tranquil setting with cooler temperatures and beautiful mountain views.
• Arenal: Nestled in the northern lowlands near the iconic Arenal Volcano, this area boasts stunning natural beauty, including lush rainforests, hot springs, and picturesque lakes.
  It’s ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
• Southern Zone: The Southern Zone, encompassing areas like Dominical, Uvita, and Ojochal, is known for its pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and a slower pace of life.
  It’s a haven for eco-conscious individuals seeking a more off-the-grid lifestyle surrounded by nature.

When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

Generally speaking, the best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This period offers plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, beachgoing, and wildlife spotting.

If you’re planning to visit the Pacific coast or central regions of Costa Rica, the dry season is an excellent time to enjoy sunny days and clear skies. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations may be more crowded, and prices for accommodations and activities may be higher.

On the other hand, if you’re interested in visiting the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, you may want to consider traveling during the region’s dry season, which typically occurs from September to October. During this time, you can enjoy sunny weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the stunning beaches and lush rainforests of the Caribbean coast.

The Most Important Words and Phrases in Spanish

Here are just a few basic words and phrases to get started with Spanish. Learning these can be helpful for travelers or anyone interested in the language!

1. Hola – Hello
2. Adiós – Goodbye
3. Por favor – Please
4. Gracias – Thank you
5. De nada – You’re welcome
6. Sí – Yes
7. No – No
8. ¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
9. Bien – Good
10. Mal – Bad
11. ¿Cómo te llamas? – What’s your name?
12. Me llamo… – My name is…
13. ¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
14. Sírvase – Help yourself
15. Lo siento – I’m sorry
16. ¿Qué tal? – How’s it going?
17. Mucho gusto – Nice to meet you
18. Disculpe – Excuse me
19. ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
20. ¿Dónde está el baño? – Where is the bathroom?
21. La cuenta, por favor – The bill, please
22. ¿Puedo ayudarte? – Can I help you?
23. Perdón – Pardon me
24. Estoy perdido/a – I’m lost
25. ¡Salud! – Cheers!

10 Fun Facts and Interesting Insights About Costa Rica

1. Biodiversity Hotspot: Despite its small size, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, hosting around 5% of the planet’s biodiversity.
2. No Army: Costa Rica abolished its army in 1948 and redirected its defense budget towards education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
3. Pura Vida: “Pura vida” is a common saying in Costa Rica that translates to “pure life” and embodies the country’s relaxed and optimistic outlook on life.
4. Volcano Wonderland: There are over 200 volcanic formations in Costa Rica, with some still active, providing stunning landscapes and geothermal hot springs for relaxation.
5. Blue Zones: Several regions in Costa Rica, known as Blue Zones, have been identified as places where people live significantly longer and healthier lives.
6. Eco-Tourism Haven: Costa Rica is a leader in eco-tourism, with over 25% of its land protected as national parks, reserves, and wildlife refuges.
7. Coffee Paradise: Costa Rica produces some of the world’s finest coffee beans, with coffee plantations offering tours to learn about the production process.
8. Adventure Playground: From zip-lining through rainforests to whitewater rafting and surfing on its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, Costa Rica is an adventurer’s paradise.
9. Scarlet Macaws: The vibrant scarlet macaw, one of the most colorful birds in the world, can be found flying freely in certain areas of Costa Rica.
10. Happy People: Costa Ricans, or Ticos, consistently rank among the happiest people on the planet, thanks to their strong social support networks, close-knit communities, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

👉 You might also find these articles interesting:
– Top 10 Digital Nomad Friendly Countries
– Digital Nomad Visa Japan
– Turkey Digital Nomad Visa
– Malta Digital Nomad Visa
– Greece Digital Nomad Visa

Are you planning to visit Costa Rica? Do you have any questions? Please let me know in the comments!

Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu

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