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ResIdency

Residency Options

Pensionado (Retiree)

Proof of a guaranteed pension of US $1,000/month (government or private pension)

Key Conditions

  • Temporary residency (initially 2 years, renewable)
  • Access to public healthcare via the healthcare system
  • Allows spouse and dependent children under certain age to be included under same pension requirement
  • After a period (often 3 years) of continuous legal residency, eligible to apply for permanent residency.
  • Note: With temporary status, “employment as an employee” is generally not allowed (though some business-ownership or self-employment may be possible).

Rentista (Independent Income)

Demonstrate US $2,500/month of stable, irrevocable income for at least 2 years — OR deposit US $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank (from which you withdraw $2,500/month)

Key Conditions

  • Temporary residency (2-year terms, renewable) for applicant + eligible dependents (spouse & children under certain age)
  • Does not rely on pension income; suitable for those with investments, rental income, dividends, etc.
  • After around 3 years of continuous residency (with renewals) — possible path to permanent residency
  • Note: Income must be non-employment income (i.e. passive income, not a salary from a job).

Inversionista (Investor)

Minimum US $150,000 invested in Costa Rican real estate, business, or approved projects.

Key Conditions

  • Temporary residency (initially) — possibility of renewing and, after 3 years, applying for permanent residency.
  • Suitable for those willing to commit capital to property, business, or other investments in Costa Rica.
  • Gives a path for investors to stay long-term; in some cases, may lead to eligibility for citizenship (residency → permanent → eventually citizenship, depending on conditions and length of stay)
Scenic mountain village surrounded by green hills

Permanent Residency, Long-Term Stay, and Additional Notes

  • All these residency categories (Pensionado, Rentista, Inversionista) generally start as temporary residency. After continuous legal residency (with timely renewals), typically after 3 years, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
  • Once permanent residency is granted, the original income/investment requirements often no longer apply for renewals — simplifying long-term stay.
  • For Pensionado and Rentista, residency allows you and your dependents (spouse, children under certain age) to move together under the same application, which is often a benefit for retirees or families.

Residency FAQ

Do I need to live in Costa Rica to apply?

You must show intent to relocate, but parts of the process can start abroad.

Yes — documentation and income requirements apply.