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Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa
The Costa Rica Rentista / Digital Nomad Visa (2026) lets remote workers live in Costa Rica for 1 year, renewable once. You need to show USD 3,000 (individual) / 4,000 (family) per month (~$3,000 USD) in remote income. Holders pay 0% income tax on foreign-earned income.
Last updated: April 2026
Min income
$3,000/mo
USD 3,000 (individual) / 4,000 (family)
Duration
1 year, renewable once
Tax rate
0%
PR path
Yes, 5y to citizenship
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Who qualifies for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?
Remote workers, freelancers and self-employed professionals with proven foreign income of at least $3,000 USD per month can apply for the Costa Rica Rentista / Digital Nomad Visa. Applicants must hold a valid passport, clean criminal record, private health insurance and proof of accommodation. The visa is valid for 1 year, renewable once and renewable.
Overview
The Costa Rica Rentista / Digital Nomad Visa is a renewable residence option for remote workers and freelancers earning income from outside Costa Rica. Income threshold: USD 3,000 (individual) / 4,000 (family) (~$3,000 USD/month). This visa leads to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.
Tax treatment: Territorial tax system. Foreign-source income not taxed regardless of residency.
Pros
- + Zero income tax on visa holders
- + Leads to permanent residency (citizenship path in 5 years)
- + Family (spouse + children) can accompany
- + Renewable visa
- + Low application fee
Cons
- - Must apply from home country or abroad
Requirements & documents
- · Health insurance (minimum coverage varies)
- · Criminal background check (clean record)
- · Proof of accommodation in destination
- · Valid passport (typically 6+ months validity)
- · Proof of income or employment contract
- · Application form completed
- · Passport photos
Processing time: 8-12 weeks once submitted.
Application fee: $100.
Apply from: Must apply from your home country or abroad, before entering Costa Rica.
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Tax details
Territorial tax system. Foreign-source income not taxed regardless of residency.
Family options
Yes — spouse and dependent children can apply alongside the primary applicant. Family surcharge: +USD 1,000/month income for family.
Frequently asked questions
How much income do I need for the Costa Rica Rentista / Digital Nomad Visa?
You need to show at least USD 3,000 (individual) / 4,000 (family) per month in income (approximately $3,000 USD). Self-employed applicants typically need to show bank statements or contracts proving recurring income over 3-6 months.
How long does the Costa Rica Rentista / Digital Nomad Visa last?
1 year, renewable once. The visa is renewable under most circumstances.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Spouse and dependent children can accompany you. Family surcharge: +USD 1,000/month income for family.
Will I have to pay tax in Costa Rica?
Territorial tax system. Foreign-source income not taxed regardless of residency.
Can I convert this visa to permanent residency?
Yes. After meeting the residency requirements (typically continuous stay + tax residency), you may apply for permanent residence. Citizenship is possible after 5 years of legal residence.
What documents do I need?
Standard: valid passport, proof of income, health insurance, criminal background check, and proof of accommodation. Documents typically need apostille or official translation. Processing takes 8-12 weeks once submitted.
Ready to apply?
Start with the official government site. Most digital nomad visas require proof of travel/health insurance — get covered with SafetyWing before you apply.
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