Costa Rica - investment
Costa Rica Investor Temporary ResidenceResidencia Temporal - Inversionista
A temporary residence for foreigners who make a qualifying investment in Costa Rica: real estate, registrable assets, securities, or projects of national interest such as tourism and forestry. Law 9996 lowered the minimum to USD 150,000 (from USD 200,000) only for people who applied during its first five years, a window that opened with its publication on 14 July 2021 and closed on 14 July 2026 (article 12). For a new application, confirm the investor minimum now in force with the DGME before you commit funds.
Who this visa is for
- Real estate buyers whose purchase meets the investor minimum in force at the DGME
- Entrepreneurs funding a Costa Rican company or productive project
- Investors in securities, stocks, or registered assets
- Applicants seeking a route with no monthly income requirement
- Families who want to relocate together under a single qualifying investment
Requirements
- Minimum investment (confirm the amount with the DGME)
In real estate, registrable assets, securities, shares, or productive projects. The USD 150,000 minimum of Law 9996 applied to applications filed up to 14 July 2026; the previous minimum was USD 200,000. Confirm the amount now in force at https://migracion.go.cr.
- Proof of investment
Deed, share certificate, or official registration showing ownership.
- Certification that the investment remains active
- Valid passport and photocopies
- Apostilled birth certificate and police clearance
- Enrollment in CCSS public health insurance
- Consular registration in Costa Rica
- Fingerprints at the Ministry of Public Security
Fees
| Fee | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Government filing fee | USD 50 | |
| Change of category fee | USD 200 | |
| DIMEX card issuance | approx. USD 125 |
Application steps
- Complete the qualifying investment
Close on real estate, form a company, or deposit funds in qualifying securities.
- Obtain official investment proof
Public deed for real estate or certified share registry.
- Apostille and translate personal documents
Birth certificate, marriage certificate, and police clearance.
- Pay filing and category fees
Deposit USD 50 plus USD 200 at Banco de Costa Rica.
- Submit file to Migracion
File in person at the Plataforma de Servicios.
- Enroll in CCSS and collect DIMEX
Activate health coverage and collect your residency card.
Official government source
Always verify the current fees, requirements and forms at the official source before applying:
Ask about the Investor ResidencyResidencia Temporal - Inversionista
Grounded on this page. Answers are informational, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
How much must I invest?
Law 9996 reduced the minimum to USD 150,000 in qualifying assets, from the previous USD 200,000, but only for applications made in its first five years, which ended on 14 July 2026. For a new application, confirm the minimum now in force with the DGME at https://migracion.go.cr before you invest.
Does buying a house qualify?
Yes, residential real estate is a recognized qualifying investment, provided its value meets the investor minimum in force when you apply. Confirm that amount with the DGME.
Can my spouse and children get residency too?
Yes, dependents can be added to the application under the same investment.
Are there tax benefits?
Not for new applicants. The Law 9996 incentives (import exemptions on household goods and vehicles, plus partial property transfer tax relief) could only be requested during the first five years of the law, which ended on 14 July 2026. People who obtained them in that window keep them for 10 years from the date they were granted (article 12).
Can I work in Costa Rica?
You cannot be a local employee, but you can manage your own investment and receive dividends.