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Costa Rica Golden Visa Program

For eco-conscious families, Costa Rica provides investor residency with access to healthcare, education, and eventual citizenship.

Residence by Investment Framework

Costa Rica offers a structured Residence by Investment Program, often referred to as the Costa Rica Golden Visa. By making a qualified financial contribution, foreign nationals can secure legal residence for themselves and their families. With its strong democratic tradition, political stability, and growing economy, Costa Rica is seen as one of Central America’s most attractive destinations for investment, relocation, and lifestyle opportunities.

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Investment Requirement

Minimum qualifying contribution: USD 150,000 under the Investor Residency category.

Core Advantage

Gateway to Central and Latin American markets , High-quality healthcare and international education institutions , Simple and efficient application process managed by government authorities.

  • The Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program
  • Benefits of Costa Rican Residence by Investment
  • Requirements of the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program
  • Procedures for Costa Rican Residence by Investment
  • Acquiring Costa Rican Citizenship After the Residence by Investment Program
  • Costa Rica Residence by Investment Frequently Asked Questions

Overview of the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program

The Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program, also called the Costa Rica Golden Visa, allows foreign nationals to obtain legal residency through qualified financial contributions. With its political stability, strong democratic system, and attractive business climate, Costa Rica offers investors and their families a secure pathway to settlement in Central America. Residency is typically approved within 9 to 12 months, and citizenship can be pursued after 7 years, or after 5 years for Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish nationals.

We make sure the application process is simple, secure, and transparent, from eligibility checks to residence approval.

Advantages of Obtaining Costa Rican Residence by Investment

Costa Rica offers lifestyle and business opportunities supported by a favorable investment framework.

  • Safe environment with consistent political stability
  • Family inclusion for spouse, children under 18, and dependent children up to 25 if unmarried
  • Citizenship eligibility after 5 or 7 years depending on nationality
  • Supportive tax system with investor-friendly policies
  • Strong healthcare and international education systems
  • Business-friendly environment with trade access across Central America
  • Residency rights for work, study, and long-term settlement

Our experts ensure applicants gain maximum value from the residence program.

What You Need to Qualify for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program

Applicants must have a valid entry visa, a clean criminal record, and qualify under one of three categories:

  • Investor Residency: Minimum USD 150,000 investment in real estate, shares of a Costa Rican corporation, or the Costa Rican stock market.
  • Retired People Residency: Proof of lifetime pension of at least USD 1,000 per month from a government or private source.
  • Fixed-Income Residency: Proof of guaranteed monthly income of at least USD 2,500 from investments or business activities abroad or in Costa Rica.

We make sure applicants select the most suitable category for their profile and provide all necessary documentation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Costa Rican Residency by Investment

  1. Confirm eligibility and gather the required documents.
  2. Submit application forms to the Immigration Department.
  3. Undergo government due diligence checks.
  4. Await approval and complete registration with Costa Rican social security within 90 days.
  5. Obtain a 2-year temporary residence permit, renewable for an additional 2 years.

To maintain residency, applicants must keep their investment or pension active, visit Costa Rica at least once a year, and remain enrolled in social security.

We make sure every stage is handled efficiently to ensure smooth approval.

From Residency to Citizenship: Unlocking Opportunities in Costa Rica

The Costa Rica Golden Visa offers a direct pathway to citizenship.

  • General eligibility after 7 years of residence
  • Accelerated eligibility after 5 years for Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish nationals
  • Requires continuous residence and compliance with immigration obligations

We make sure clients remain compliant throughout their residency so they can secure citizenship without obstacles.

Why Partner with Globalhenel

Globalhenel provides reliable guidance for international investors pursuing Costa Rican residence.

  • Full advisory service tailored to each applicant’s profile
  • Transparent and secure application management
  • Step-by-step guidance through all program categories
  • Personalized solutions for families, retirees, and entrepreneurs

We make sure every client experiences a smooth transition from application to long-term residence.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program

Usually 4 to 12 months, depending on the investment category and document readiness.

Yes, spouses, children under 18, and dependent children under 25 who are single are eligible.

USD 150,000 under the Investor Residency route.

Initial permits are issued for 2 years and are renewable for another 2 years.

No, but you must visit at least once a year to maintain residency status.

After 7 years of residence, or 5 years if you are from Central America, Ibero-America, or Spain.

Costa Rica’s Residence by Investment Program, known as the Costa Rica Golden Visa, allows individuals and families to secure legal residency through qualified contributions to the national economy. With a stable democracy, favorable business climate, and strong reputation for safety, Costa Rica is an attractive option for investors seeking long-term settlement in Central America. Applicants can typically gain residence within 9-12 months and may apply for citizenship after 7 years, or after 5 years for Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish citizens.

We make sure the process is simple, secure, and transparent from application to residence approval.

Applicants can qualify for residency through three main routes:

  • Investor Residency: Minimum USD 150,000 investment in real estate, shares of a Costa Rican company, or the stock market.
  • Retired People Residency: Proof of a lifetime pension of at least USD 1,000 per month from a government or private entity.
  • Fixed-Income Residency: Proof of guaranteed monthly income of at least USD 2,500 from investments or business abroad or in Costa Rica.

We make sure each applicant is matched to the right category for long-term compliance and eligibility.

Residence in Costa Rica provides both lifestyle and business opportunities.

  • Family inclusion: spouse, children under 18, and dependent unmarried children under 25
  • Eligibility to apply for citizenship after 5 to 7 years depending on nationality
  • Political and social stability in a safe environment
  • Business-friendly policies and favorable tax system
  • Strong healthcare and education services
  • Strategic location for trade across Central America

Our experts ensure families maximize these benefits while maintaining secure residency status.

To keep residency valid, applicants must:

  • Maintain the qualifying investment, pension, or fixed income
  • Visit Costa Rica at least once a year (minimum one day)
  • Stay registered with Costa Rica’s social security system

We make sure applicants remain fully compliant so their residency is never at risk.

Applicants must prepare accurate and verifiable records, including:

  • Valid passport and photographs
  • Police clearance certificate from country of residence
  • Proof of qualifying investment, pension, or income
  • Financial and bank statements to verify source of funds
  • Health insurance or health certificate
  • Marriage and birth certificates for dependents (if applicable)

Our specialists ensure every document meets Costa Rican legal standards for smooth and transparent processing.

  1. Confirm eligibility and select the correct residency category.
  2. Gather required documents and undergo initial due diligence.
  3. Submit application to the Immigration Department with fees.
  4. Await government review and approval.
  5. Register with social security within 90 days of approval.
  6. Receive a 2-year temporary residence permit, renewable for a further 2 years.
  7. Apply for citizenship after the required residence period.

We make sure each stage is professionally managed so applicants transition easily from application to residency and eventually to citizenship.