Inmigration Info

Consulates and Embassies

Costa Rican Embassies are scattered throughout the U.S. and other foreign countries. They are there to aid their own citizens as well as help with the immigration process for foreigners wishing to live in Costa Rica.

While in Costa Rica it is wise to visit and be familiar with your own country’s Embassy and Consulate. Emergencies can arise at any time and it’s always helpful to understand the process your embassy or consulate will undergo in their assessment and aid of the situation.

1 Immigrating to Costa Rica

Costa Rica has so many benefits to offer immigrants that more and more retirees and investors are seeing the potential for a safe and happy and even profitable life in this small country. Investors look at Costa Rica as a safe investment as more and more foreigners are relocating; the Costa Rican government makes it easy to live in the country. Retirees see an economical paradise waiting for them; a place where homes are reasonably priced, the people are friendly and welcoming and the sun is always shining.

2 Immigrant Status

Immigrating to Costa Rica is a relatively easy process. There are three categories of immigration. The first is to move to Costa Rica as a “Pensionado” or pensioner. This status is defined as a person with a pension income exceeding $600 monthly. Another immigrant status is a “Rentista”. This person does not have a pension but has other verifiable income exceeding $1000 per month. The other option is to gain immigrant status as an “Inversionista”. This person will be investing in a Costa Rican Business. Investment amounts are $100,000 for an approved tourism project or $200,000 for another Costa Rican business. These categories allow the immigrant to bring in a spouse and dependent children less than 18 years of age.

Documentation will be needed for any immigrant status and may vary, but the most common documentation needed is:

1. An original birth certificate
2. first and last name of the applicant
3. father’s name and mother’s maiden name
4. nationality
5. marital status
6. passport with date of entry
7. criminal record
8. four recent photos and necessary fees

These documents must be translated to Spanish and must be verified by the Costa Rican Consulate in the applicant’s country. Though the Costa Rican government welcomes immigrants it is always advisable to obtain legal council to aid in the immigration process and to ensure a quick and smooth process with no snags or loop holes.

3 Naturalization

Once you’ve lived in Costa Rica for a while you’ll see the country’s many benefits, and may consider living in Costa Rica not just as an immigrant but as a citizen. This is quite common and popular. Since Costa Rica allows dual citizenship, most see this as the number one reason naturalization to Costa Rica is so popular. No one has to give up their status as a citizen in their own country to become a citizen in Costa Rica. Since the rules for naturalization are changing it is wise to consult with a local attorney. He or she can explain the latest rules and requirements for becoming a naturalized citizen of Costa Rica.