Costa Rica
Pura Vida lifestyle, territorial tax system, and accessible residency programs for retirees, investors, and remote workers.
5.2M
Population
San José
Capital
Spanish
Language
CRC (Colón)
Currency
GMT-6
Timezone
0%
Foreign Income Tax
USD 1,000/mo
Pensionado Min
3 years
Path to PR
Residency Programs
Costa Rica offers three main residency pathways — a retiree visa for pensioners, a rentista visa for those with stable income, and an investor visa for real estate or business investors.
Pensionado (Retiree) Visa
USD 2,500–4,000 (legal + gov fees)
Processing: 3–6 months
- USD 1,000/mo guaranteed pension required
- 2-year temporary residency (renewable)
- Path to permanent residency after 3 years
- Access to national healthcare (CAJA)
Rentista Visa
USD 3,000–5,000 (legal + gov fees)
Processing: 3–6 months
- USD 2,500/mo stable income for 2 years
- Or USD 60,000 deposit in Costa Rican bank
- 2-year temporary residency (renewable)
- Can invest but not work for local employer
Investor Visa
USD 150,000 minimum investment
Processing: 4–8 months
- Investment in real estate property or business
- Immediate temporary residency
- Path to permanent residency after 3 years
- Full work authorization included
The Tax Reality
Costa Rica’s territorial tax system means foreign-sourced income is completely exempt. Here’s what you need to know.
Territorial tax system — foreign-sourced income not taxed
No tax on foreign dividends, interest, or capital gains
Corporate tax: 30% on Costa Rica-sourced income only
Free Trade Zone companies: 0% tax for up to 12 years
No inheritance tax between direct family members
Social security contributions provide universal healthcare access
Ready to explore Costa Rica?
Our local partners handle residency applications, banking setup, and real estate guidance — we coordinate the entire process.
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