Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

The Costa Rica digital nomad visa is finally available as of July 2022! This is extremely exciting news for digital nomads looking to make a temporary home in a gorgeous country with ideal weather. Costa Rica has long been a favorite destination for digital nomads. With its white sandy beaches, incredibly fresh fruit, and friendly culture, digital nomads have called this country home for many years. 

Up until now, digital nomads could stay in the country for 90 days and would have to leave. Now, they are being officially welcomed with their own digital nomad visa to work remotely for one year. If the digital nomad has spent 180 days in Costa Rica during the visa period, they may renew it for a second year. 

Along with the ability to stay for a year in Costa Rica, digital nomads can also open a local bank account with their visas. They are also exempt from paying local taxes in Costa Rica and may drive with their driver’s license from their country of origin. 

Visa holders will also be exempt from import taxes when they make their temporary move to Costa Rica. They are allowed to import two vehicles, computers, and other items tax-free.

Applicants may bring their spouse and dependents with them to Costa Rica with this visa.

Costa Rica Visa Requirements:

• Valid Passport
• Proof of health insurance that will cover you throughout your stay
• Proof of sufficient funds (approximately $3,000 per month or $4,000 for family) 
• Work Remotely – You must be employed by or own a company registered outside of Costa Rica or freelance with clients outside of the country
• Application fee

Cost Of Living In Costa Rica:

Costa Rica is an amazing place to get a bang for your buck, with its cost of living significantly lower than in the USA. Rent costs are also 30% lower than in the USA. With rent and other living expenses, you could live comfortably in Costa Rica with around $1,500 a month.

Visa Process 

Step 1: Gather Documents

Before you begin your application, it’s a good idea to gather all of the documents you will need to submit. It’s important to note that all documents must be translated into Spanish by an accredited translator before submitting.

You will need the following documents:

• Copy of Passport
• Proof of Remote Work
• Bank Statements with Signed Affidavit
• Proof of Health Insurance

Once you have all of these documents together, translated, and digitized, you may start the application process.

Step 2: Submit Application

You can fill out your application right online here.

You will have to create a username and passport to register your profile and upload your documents.

Step 3: Wait for Approval

It will take about 14 days for the government to process your digital nomad visa application. They will then notify you whether your application was approved or denied.

Step 4: Obtain Residence Documents

Once approved and you have arrived in Costa Rica, you have three months to obtain your residence permit with biometric data. You will have to make an appointment in the country and bring all of the documents you needed to apply for the visa with you.

Here, you will pay standard residence and immigration fees to receive your temporary residence permit.

Extra Visa Info

If you are interested in checking out other possible locations for your next digital nomad adventure, please check out my Digital Nomad Database to see the overview of countries and places that have special visas for digital nomads and remote workers. You can find detailed articles on each location as well.

Digital Nomad Visa Database

DisclaimerPlease note the information provided in this post is of general interest only and is not to be construed or intended as a substitute for professional legal advice.

Happy travels xx