Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa — 2026 Update

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 17 March, 2026

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Quick Visa Facts

Visa length 1 year

Possible to extend? Yes, for an additional 1 year (must spend at least 180 days in Costa Rica during the first year)

Who can apply? Remote workers, freelancers, and business owners who earn income from foreign sources

Minimum Income Requirements $3,000 USD/month for individual applicants and $4,000 USD/month for applicants with dependents

Time for visa applications Approximately 15 calendar days for initial review and up to 90 days to enter Costa Rica and finalize documentation after approval.

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Imagine starting your day with the sound of ocean waves, wrapping up work surrounded by lush rainforests, and spending your weekends surfing, hiking, or simply soaking up the pura vida lifestyle. With the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa, this dream can become your reality.

Launched to attract remote workers from around the globe, this visa lets you live and work legally in Costa Rica for up to one year, with the option to renew. Whether you're a freelancer, tech entrepreneur, or remote employee, Costa Rica offers the perfect balance of natural beauty, stable infrastructure, and digital nomad-friendly policies.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements and application steps to tax perks and what life is really like as a digital nomad in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa Overview

Costa Rica officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa (officially known as Estancia para Trabajadores Remotos) in 2022 to attract remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs looking to live and work in one of the world’s most naturally stunning and politically stable countries.

The program was introduced to bring in global talent while supporting the local economy, offering a special legal stay permit for digital nomads and their families. Thanks to its straightforward application process and generous tax benefits, it has quickly become one of the most attractive options for location-independent professionals.

Who Is It For?

The Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa is designed for:

• Remote employees working for companies based outside Costa Rica

• Freelancers and entrepreneurs offering services to international clients

• Families of remote workers who want to relocate together

To qualify, you must demonstrate a stable monthly income of at least $3,000 USD for individuals or $4,000 USD for families, typically verified through bank statements or a certified affidavit.

All income must come from sources outside Costa Rica, as working for local companies is not permitted under this visa.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

With this visa, you can:

• Live and work legally in Costa Rica for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year, provided you meet minimum stay and income requirements

• Work remotely for a foreign company or international clients

• Import essential work equipment tax-free (such as laptops and tech gear)

• Open a local bank account

• Remain fully exempt from Costa Rican income tax on foreign-earned income during your stay

• Access Costa Rica’s national banking system and digital infrastructure

However, this visa does not permit employment with Costa Rican companies or provide a direct pathway to permanent residency or citizenship.

Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

To apply for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa (officially known as Estancia para Trabajadores Remotos), you’ll need to prepare a set of required documents. While many are standard for visa applications, others are specific to Costa Rica’s remote worker program.

Make sure you have the following documents ready when submitting your application:

• Completed application form

• Copy of your passport (photo page and entry stamp if applying from within Costa Rica)

• Recent passport-sized photo

• $100 USD government filing fee (proof of payment required)

• Affiliation form, completed through the official online platform

• Certified translations for any documents not originally in Spanish

• Birth certificate (if applying with children under 25)

• Marriage certificate or proof of civil union (issued within the last 6 months, if applying with a spouse)

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

This is one of the most important requirements.

You must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of $3,000 USD for individual applicants or $4,000 USD for families, consistently confirmed in the 2026 official guidance.

This income must meet the following criteria:

• It must come from sources outside Costa Rica (foreign employers, clients, or businesses)

• It must be verified with bank statements covering at least the past 12 months

• It must be supported by a sworn affidavit, notarized or certified by a CPA or Public Notary

• The affidavit must be apostilled or legalized, depending on your country of origin

Private Health Insurance

You’ll need to provide proof of valid health insurance covering your entire stay in Costa Rica.

The policy must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum coverage of $50,000 USD

• Coverage must include you and any dependents included in your application

• The policy can be international or purchased locally in Costa Rica

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans for digital nomads here.

How to Apply for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa (officially known as Estancia para Trabajadores Remotos) is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed entirely online through the official platform (Trámite Ya).

While some applicants begin the process from abroad, you can also apply from within Costa Rica. Once approved, you’ll need to complete the final steps in the country to activate your status.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to walk you through the process:

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Before starting your application, make sure you have all the required documents ready, including identification, proof of income, and health insurance.

• Ensure all non-Spanish documents are officially translated

• Complete any required notarizations and apostilles in advance

Incomplete or incorrectly formatted documents are one of the most common reasons for delays.

Step 2: Create an Account on the Trámite Ya Platform

Visit the official government platform (Trámite Ya) and create your user account.

This is Costa Rica’s official online system for immigration procedures, and all digital nomad visa applications are processed through it.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

Once your account is set up, complete your application and upload:

• The Digital Nomad Visa application form

• Scanned copies of all supporting documents

• Proof of payment of the $100 USD government filing fee

While it is technically possible to apply in person, most applicants complete the process online. Even for in-person applications, the affiliation form must still be submitted digitally.

Step 4: Wait for Application Review (Around 15 Working Days)

Costa Rican immigration authorities typically review applications within approximately 15 working days.

• If additional documents or corrections are needed, you’ll usually be notified within the first few days

• Processing times may vary slightly during high-demand periods

Step 5: Receive Approval and Complete Final Requirements

If your application is approved, you’ll receive an official resolution outlining the final steps.

These typically include:

• Payment of any additional administrative fees or deposits

• Confirmation of passport validity

• Submission or verification of your health insurance policy

Step 6: Enter Costa Rica and Finalize Your Application

To complete the process, you must be physically present in Costa Rica.

If you applied from abroad, you’ll need to enter the country to finalize your documentation and activate your legal status under the visa.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa and Start Your Stay

Once all final documents and payments are completed, you’ll receive your Digital Nomad Visa, valid for 1 year.

You can renew it for an additional year, provided you:

• Meet the minimum stay requirement (typically 180 days)

• Continue to meet the income requirements

Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa Stay Requirements

To maintain your legal status and qualify for a visa renewal, the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa comes with a minimum physical presence requirement.

Minimum Time in Costa Rica

If you plan to extend your visa beyond the initial one-year period, you must spend at least 180 days (six months) physically in Costa Rica during your first year.

This requirement ensures that digital nomads are genuinely residing in the country, not just using the visa as a travel loophole.

Initial Entry After Approval

If you apply from abroad, you’ll have up to 90 days after approval to enter Costa Rica and complete the remaining documentation steps in person. Your visa officially begins once you've entered and completed the in-country requirements.

How Much Does the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa Cost?

The total cost of the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa depends on whether you apply independently or choose to work with a legal service provider, as well as whether you include dependents or require additional services like document translations.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

• Government filing fee: $100 USD

• Legal assistance (optional):

  • Around $525 USD (+13% VAT) for the main applicant

  • Around $325 USD (+13% VAT) per dependent

• Official translation costs: Vary depending on the number and type of documents

• Additional administrative fees or guarantee deposit: May be required after approval and specified in your resolution

If you choose to work with a lawyer or agency, payment is typically structured as follows:

• Around 75% of legal fees are paid upfront at the time of application

• Remaining 25% are paid upon approval

Government fees and translation costs are usually paid in advance.

Common Reasons Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa Applications Get Rejected

While the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa process is relatively straightforward, applications can still be delayed or rejected if certain requirements aren’t met.

Here are the most common reasons:

• Insufficient proof of income: Failing to clearly demonstrate the minimum income requirement ($3,000/month or $4,000 for families), or submitting incomplete bank statements

• Incorrect or missing documents: Missing paperwork, outdated certificates, or documents that haven’t been properly translated into Spanish

• Lack of proper legalization: Required documents that are not notarized, apostilled, or legalized where applicable

• Invalid or insufficient health insurance: Policies that don’t meet the minimum coverage or are considered travel insurance instead of long-term coverage

• Inconsistent application information: Mismatched details across forms, bank statements, and supporting documents

• Applying with local income sources: Indicating income from Costa Rican clients or employers, which is not allowed under this visa

To avoid issues, double-check that all documents are complete, consistent, and meet the official requirements before submitting your application.

Taxes for People With a Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

One of the biggest advantages of the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa is its favorable tax treatment for remote workers.

Costa Rica operates under a territorial tax system, which means that income earned from foreign sources is not taxed locally. As a digital nomad visa holder, you are generally not treated as a tax resident for foreign-earned income.

This means:

• You are fully exempt from Costa Rican income tax on foreign-earned income

• You can legally receive income from foreign employers or international clients without being taxed locally

• You are not required to file local income tax returns on foreign income under this visa

• This exemption applies for the entire duration of your visa, including any approved renewal period

However, this benefit only applies if your income comes from outside Costa Rica. You are not permitted to work for a Costa Rican company or provide services to local clients, as this would violate the terms of the visa.

Living in Costa Rica with the Digital Nomad Visa

Living in Costa Rica as a digital nomad means combining remote work with a relaxed, nature-rich lifestyle. With access to modern infrastructure, reliable internet, and a growing community of remote professionals, you'll find it easy to stay productive while enjoying everything from tropical beaches to cloud forests. Cities like San José, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa offer coworking spaces, cafés, and digital nomad hubs, while more rural areas give you the chance to disconnect when the workday ends fully.

Thanks to the visa’s benefits, such as tax exemptions, access to local banking, and the ability to import work equipment duty-free, you can settle in quickly and focus on what matters most: living well. Whether you're surfing before a morning meeting or hiking volcanoes on the weekend, Costa Rica offers a unique balance of work and adventure that makes it one of the most attractive destinations for location-independent professionals.

Best Cities to Live in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a range of cities and towns that cater to different digital nomad lifestyles, from beach lovers and surfers to urban professionals and eco-conscious adventurers. Here are three of the best places to live while holding the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa:

San José

As the capital city and economic heart of Costa Rica, San José is ideal for digital nomads who prefer an urban environment with access to modern conveniences. You'll find a strong infrastructure, fast internet, coworking spaces, international restaurants, and cultural attractions. It’s also the country’s main transportation hub, making weekend trips to the beach or jungle easy and accessible.

Tamarindo

If you dream of working just steps from the ocean, Tamarindo is your spot. Located on the Pacific coast, this laid-back surf town is popular among digital nomads for its vibrant expat community, coworking cafés, and stunning sunsets. Tamarindo combines natural beauty with enough amenities to stay productive, making it perfect for remote workers who want a slower pace of life without sacrificing connectivity.

Santa Teresa

For a more off-the-grid experience with a creative, bohemian vibe, Santa Teresa is a favorite among nomads and entrepreneurs. Tucked away on the Nicoya Peninsula, this beach town offers a mix of yoga studios, organic food spots, and beachfront coworking lounges. While the infrastructure is more limited than in San José, the relaxed atmosphere and strong community of like-minded travelers more than make up for it.

Cost of Living

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). ₡1,000 = approximately $1.85 USD.

The average net monthly salary in Costa Rica is around ₡580,000 CRC, which equates to approximately $1,075 USD. Keep in mind that costs and salaries vary significantly depending on the region and your lifestyle.

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

San José

• Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $650 per month

• Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $950 per month

• Basic Utilities – $85 per month

• Wi-Fi – $35 per month

• Public Transport – $0.90 one-way

• Groceries (2 people) – $300–$450 per month

Tamarindo

• Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $950 per month

• Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $1,400 per month

• Basic Utilities – $100 per month

• Wi-Fi – $45 per month

• Public Transport – $1.20 one-way

• Groceries (2 people) – $400–$550 per month

Santa Teresa

• Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $900 per month

• Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $1,300 per month

• Basic Utilities – $90 per month

• Wi-Fi – $50 per month

• Public Transport – $1.50 one-way

• Groceries (2 people) – $350–$500 per month

FAQs

Do I need a job to apply for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa?

No, you don’t need a traditional job. You can qualify as a remote employee, freelancer, or business owner, as long as you meet the minimum income requirement and your income comes from sources outside Costa Rica.

What is the minimum income requirement?

You must earn at least $3,000 USD per month as an individual or $4,000 USD per month if applying with dependents. This must be proven with bank statements and a sworn affidavit.

How long does it take to process the visa?

Processing typically takes around 15 working days, although delays may occur if additional documents are requested or during busy periods.

Can I apply from outside Costa Rica?

Yes, you can apply entirely online through the official Trámite Ya platform from abroad. However, you must enter Costa Rica to finalize the process and activate your visa.

Do I have to pay taxes in Costa Rica as a digital nomad?

No. Costa Rica operates under a territorial tax system, meaning you are not taxed on foreign-earned income while on this visa, as long as you do not generate local income.

How long can I stay in Costa Rica with this visa?

The visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed for an additional year, provided you meet the income requirements and minimum stay conditions.

Can I bring my family with me?

Yes, you can include dependents such as your spouse or children. In this case, you must show a minimum monthly income of $4,000 USD.

Do I need health insurance?

Yes, you must have valid health insurance covering your entire stay, with a minimum coverage of $50,000 USD. Travel insurance is not accepted.

Can I get help applying for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa?

If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.

Author

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

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Nadia Dardón is a content creator from Guatemala. She has worked fully remotely for the past six years as a copywriter, editor, and content creator, working for different industries. She started her digital nomad journey in 2022 and currently lives as an expat in Spain.