7 YEARS · Digital Nomad Visa (Ley de Trabajo Remoto, launched 2022)
Costa Rica's digital nomad visa (launched 2022) counts toward the 7-year naturalization requirement. Costa Rica is Central America's most stable democracy with excellent infrastructure.
Visa Type
Digital Nomad Visa (Ley de Trabajo Remoto, launched 2022)
Income Requirement
$3,000/month
Visa Cost
$100–$200 (visa fees) + legal fees
Citizenship Timeline
7 years
Presence Required
Must not be absent for more than 1 year at a time
Passport Rank
#40 globally
Visa-Free Countries
~145 destinations
EU Passport
No
Overview
Costa Rica launched its digital nomad visa in 2022, allowing remote workers to live legally in Costa Rica for up to 2 years. The visa counts toward the 7-year naturalization requirement. Costa Rica is Central America's most stable democracy — it abolished its military in 1948 and has had uninterrupted democratic governance since. The country has excellent infrastructure, beautiful nature, and a high quality of life. The 7-year timeline is longer than other options, but Costa Rica's stability and quality of life make it attractive.
Step-by-Step Process
1: Apply for Digital Nomad Visa at Costa Rican consulate or online — Costa Rican consulate or online · 4–8 weeks · $100–$200 + legal fees
2: Arrive in Costa Rica and register with DIMEX (immigration) — Costa Rica · 1–4 weeks · Minimal
3: Obtain DIMEX card (residency card) and CÉDULA (national ID) — Costa Rica · 2–4 weeks · Minimal
4: Maintain residence for 7 years — renew visa as needed — Costa Rica · 7 years · $100–$200/year
5: Apply for Costa Rican citizenship (naturalización) after 7 years — Costa Rica · 12–24 months · $200–$400
6: Pass Spanish language test and Costa Rican history/culture test — Costa Rica · Preparation time varies · $100–$200
7: Receive Costa Rican passport — Costa Rica · 2–4 weeks · $50–$100
Advantages
Costa Rica is Central America's most stable democracy
7-year timeline — longest of the main DNV pipelines
Spanish language and civics test required for citizenship
Higher income requirement ($3,000/month)
Traffic and urban sprawl in San José
Cost of living is higher than other Central American countries
Requirements
Valid passport
Proof of income ($3,000+/month)
Employment contract or proof of self-employment
Criminal background check
Health insurance
Proof of accommodation in Costa Rica
Tax Considerations
Costa Rica uses a territorial tax system. Foreign-source income earned by residents is generally exempt from Costa Rican income tax — only Costa Rican-source income is taxed. This makes Costa Rica very tax-efficient for digital nomads who work for foreign clients. Costa Rica has limited tax treaties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Costa Rica safe?
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America. It has no military and has maintained democratic governance for over 75 years. While petty crime exists in tourist areas, violent crime against expats is rare. The country consistently ranks as one of the happiest in the world.
What does 'pura vida' mean?
'Pura vida' (pure life) is Costa Rica's national motto and cultural philosophy — it expresses a positive, laid-back approach to life. It's used as a greeting, farewell, and expression of contentment.
Does Costa Rica allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Costa Rica allows dual citizenship. You do not need to renounce your existing citizenship.