Costa Rica’s digital-nomad visa, without the guesswork
Who it fits, the income evidence, insurance and the difference between a temporary stay and a residency plan.
Who this category is for
Costa Rica’s remote-worker category is an estancia, or authorized stay. The tourism board’s program overview describes an initial year with the possibility of another year. Treat it as a specific temporary option rather than assuming time in the program automatically builds a permanent-residency pathway.
The detailed official requirements call for income evidence for the previous year and set US$3,000 and US$4,000 thresholds. An overview on the same official site also mentions US$5,000 for families. We use the detailed requirements here; confirm the current application rule if applying with dependents.
Assemble the application evidence
Prepare passport identification, the relevant entry-stamp page if already in Costa Rica, the application and income documentation. The official checklist describes bank statements with a declaration, or an eligible professional certification. It also explains Spanish translation and authentication requirements. Follow the current form rather than an old blog checklist.
Ask your employer or clients to confirm the arrangement allows work from Costa Rica. Immigration permission does not resolve employer payroll, information security or professional-licensing obligations.
Get the right insurance
The official insurance requirements call for at least US$50,000 in medical-expense coverage for illness in Costa Rica for the full authorized stay. Each dependent needs compliant coverage. Check the policy dates, exclusions and proof documents before buying.
Request a written quote that clearly identifies Costa Rica, the insured people and the required period. A short holiday policy may not match a year of living abroad.
Plan for renewal and the U.S. side
Calendar the permission’s end date as soon as it is issued. Check the official renewal rules before planning extended travel or a second year. Keep approval records accessible when dealing with a bank or driving authority.
A program tax benefit does not erase U.S. obligations. Read the U.S. filing guide and the separate state-tax exit guide before treating your take-home pay as settled.
Sources & notes
Sources consulted September 12, 2026. Specific rules and fees can change; use the linked authority’s current instructions for an application or financial decision.