Costa Rica digital nomad visa & residency (2026)

Law 10008 ('Ley para atraer trabajadores y prestadores remotos de servicios de carácter internacional') established the digital nomad sub-category. It targets foreign nationals who provide paid services remotely using digital/telecom technologies exclusively for employers or clients located outside Costa Rica, whether as employees, freelancers, or business owners.

Applicants must demonstrate a minimum net monthly income of $3,000 USD (individual) or $4,000 USD (with dependents) from foreign sources via 12 months of bank statements, plus international health insurance with at least $50,000 in coverage valid for the full authorized stay.

The visa is valid for one year and renewable once for a second year (maximum two years total). Renewal requires proof of at least 80 days of physical presence in Costa Rica during the initial authorized period and continued satisfaction of income requirements.

Visa holders are fully exempt from Costa Rican income tax on earnings sourced abroad. Law 10008 also grants duty-free importation of personal computing and IT equipment needed for remote work.

The digital nomad visa does not convert to permanent residency. After two years, holders must depart or separately apply for long-term residency, e.g., Rentista (fixed passive income of $2,500/month for two years guaranteed) or Inversionista ($150,000 minimum investment), both governed by Law 9996.

Applications are submitted digitally via the official Trámite Ya platform or in-person at a DGME office (appointment required via the DGME portal, selecting 'Estancia Nómadas Digitales'). The non-refundable fee is $100 USD per applicant paid to Banco de Costa Rica; DGME has 15 calendar days to issue a decision.