Do I need residency to buy property in Costa Rica?

No. You do not need residency to buy or own property in Costa Rica. Foreigners have the same property rights as citizens, including the right to hold titled (fee simple) property, sell, rent, and pass it to heirs. Many buyers choose to pursue residency for the lifestyle benefits, ease of travel, and long-term stability, but it is not required to purchase.

What are the main residency options in Costa Rica?

The most common categories are Pensionado (a guaranteed pension of at least $1,000/month), Rentista ($2,500/month of stable income for two years, or a $60,000 bank deposit), and Inversionista (a minimum $150,000 investment, often in real estate). There is also a Digital Nomad visa for remote workers, though it does not count toward permanent residency.

How much do I need to invest for investor residency?

The Inversionista (investor) residency requires a minimum investment of $150,000, reduced from $200,000 under Law 9996. This can be in real estate or a qualifying business; for real estate the property must be registered in your personal name rather than held by a corporation.

Can I start the residency process from abroad?

Yes, and it's recommended. Much of the documentation — apostilled certificates, background checks, and financial proof — is easier to gather in your home country before you arrive, which helps avoid delays.

Does residency lead to citizenship?

It can. Temporary residency is renewable every two years, and after maintaining legal residency for seven years you may become eligible to apply for citizenship, subject to the applicable requirements.

Costa Rica Residency Guide — Pensionado, Rentista & Investor Options

Costa Rica

Why Get Residency?

The benefits of Costa Rica residency.

Costa Rica is one of the most welcoming countries in the world for foreigners. Residency gives you flexibility, stability, and access to benefits that make living, investing, and doing business here even better.

Live, work, and invest legally in Costa Rica

Open local bank accounts and access financial services

Access Costa Rica's well-regarded healthcare system (CAJA)

Import a vehicle and household belongings

A pathway to permanent residency and citizenship

Long-term stability and peace of mind

Residency Options

Which residency is right for you?

Pensionado

Pension of $1,000+/month

For retirees with a guaranteed lifetime pension from social security or a private plan. No minimum age.

Rentista

$2,500/mo income or $60K deposit

For those with stable passive income — show $2,500/month for two years, or deposit $60,000 in a CR bank.

Inversionista

$150,000 investment

For real-estate investors and business owners. Property must be titled in your personal name, not a corporation.

Digital Nomad Visa

Remote foreign income

A temporary permit for remote workers earning abroad. Note: it does not count toward permanent residency.

Figures are current general guidelines and can change; immigration is documentation-heavy and fact-specific. We're buyer representatives, not immigration attorneys — we'll connect you with vetted professionals to confirm your best path.

Do You Need Residency?

Do you need residency to buy property in Costa Rica?

No. You don't need residency to buy or own property in Costa Rica. Foreigners have the same property rights as Costa Rican citizens — including titled, fee-simple ownership.

Many buyers still choose to pursue residency for the lifestyle benefits, ease of travel, healthcare access, and long-term stability. You can explore opportunities or browse our area guides while you weigh the decision.

The Process

How to get residency in Costa Rica.

A clear, five-step path — and we help you line up the right people at each stage.

Choose Your Path

Identify the residency option that fits your income, goals, and situation.

Gather Documents

Collect apostilled birth/marriage certificates, background checks, and financial proof — ideally from your home country.

Submit Application

Your file is filed with Costa Rica's immigration authority (DGME) through your attorney.

Receive Approval

Once approved, you complete CAJA registration and receive your residency (DIMEX) card.

Renew & Enjoy

Temporary residency is renewable every two years; after seven years you may qualify for citizenship.

Take The Next Step

Let us help you make Costa Rica home.

Our team guides you through every step of the residency process — and connects you with trusted local attorneys — so you can focus on your new life in Costa Rica.

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