Immigration Law at Costa Rica
Immigration Guide to Costa Rica ... Costa Rica's immigration framework is primarily governed by Law No. 9996, enacted in July 2021, which aims to attract foreign investment, retirees, and individuals with foreign income streams. This law, along with its 2023 regulations, has significantly influenced residency options and visa policies. (About Costa Rica’s Immigration Law 9996: What You Need to Know in 2024 – CRIE)
🏠 Residency Options Under Law 9996
Law No. 9996 introduced several residency categories to bolster the country's economic recovery post-pandemic: (About Costa Rica’s Immigration Law 9996: What You Need to Know in 2024 – CRIE)
Investor Residency: Requires a minimum investment of US$150,000 in Costa Rica.
Pensionado Residency: For retirees, necessitating a monthly pension income of at least US$1,000.
Rentista Residency: For individuals with a guaranteed monthly income of US$2,500 or a two-year deposit of US$60,000. (Dentons - Costa Rica: What you need to know about the new regulations to attract investors, foreign income earners (“Rentistas”) and retirees, About Costa Rica’s Immigration Law 9996: What You Need to Know in 2024 – CRIE)
These categories offer tax incentives, such as exemptions from income and import taxes, and eligibility for tax residency. The benefits are available for up to 10 years and include exemptions on import duties for household goods and vehicles. (Costa Rica - Simplifies immigration procedures and provides tax incentives for foreign investors | Investment Policy Monitor | UNCTAD Investment Policy Hub, About Costa Rica’s Immigration Law 9996: What You Need to Know in 2024 – CRIE)
🛂 Tourist Visa Policies
Extended Stay: In September 2023, Costa Rica extended the maximum stay for visa-exempt tourists from 90 days to 180 days. This applies to travelers from countries like the United States, Canada, and most European nations. (Costa Rica Extends Tourist Visas to 180 Days :)
Overstay Penalties: A proposed bill in March 2025 aims to impose a US$300 fine per month for overstaying a tourist visa, up from the previous US$100. Additionally, overstayers could face a 90-day re-entry ban. The revenue from these fines would be allocated to the General Directorate of Migration (DGME) to enhance enforcement and control. (A new bill in Costa Rica aims to combat perpetual tourism – What Expats Need To Know – CRIE, New Bill Aims to Curb Perpetual Tourism in Costa Rica)
🌐 Humanitarian Measures
In April 2025, Costa Rica granted special migratory status to 85 migrants deported from the United States. These individuals, originating from countries including Afghanistan, Russia, China, Pakistan, and India, had been detained without passports and restricted mobility. Costa Rica issued a resolution allowing them a 90-day migratory status, extendable, and permitting full freedom of movement within the country. This move was in response to human rights concerns regarding the treatment of migrant children. (Costa Rica grants special status to 85 migrants deported from the US)
📄 Legal Framework and Application Process
Law No. 9996: Establishes the primary legal basis for residency and immigration policies.
Regulation to Law 9996: Published in February 2023, it simplifies immigration procedures for investors, retirees, and individuals with foreign income. It includes the creation of a preferential section within immigration's digital platforms for processing applications. (Dentons - Costa Rica: What you need to know about the new regulations to attract investors, foreign income earners (“Rentistas”) and retirees)
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