The cost centres on the qualifying investment, with official filing fees and ongoing requirements on top. Here is how it adds up.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
The largest cost is the qualifying investment. Under Law 9996 the figure is USD 150,000, but that reduced level is tied to a sunset date of 14 July 2026, after which it is expected to return to USD 200,000 unless renewed.
The investment can take the form of real estate, shares in registered businesses or other approved assets. Confirm the figure that applies on your filing date with the authority.
Plan for immigration filing fees, a change of status fee and document, translation and legalisation costs. Costa Rica also requires applicants to enrol in the public social security system, the Caja, which carries a recurring contribution based on declared income. Confirm the current figures with the authority.
Many applicants use independent advisors and translators to prepare and file the application. Fees vary with the route, the asset and your family size. Compare scope and fixed quotes before you commit. You can use Get Matched below to reach vetted independent advisors.
Begin with the qualifying investment, then add official fees, the recurring Caja contribution and professional costs. Because the investment threshold is in transition, build your budget around the figure that will apply on your expected filing date.
| Item | Indicative amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying investment | USD 150,000 to USD 200,000 | Lower figure tied to the 14 July 2026 sunset |
| Immigration filing and change of status | Confirm the current figure with the official authority | Set by the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners |
| Social security (Caja) enrolment | Confirm the current figure with the official authority | Recurring contribution based on declared income |
| Professional fees | Varies | Depends on route, asset and family size |
Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Direccion General de Migracion y Extranjeria (General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners) publishes the binding detail. Verify before you act.
The figure is in transition. Law 9996 set USD 150,000, tied to a 14 July 2026 sunset, after which USD 200,000 is expected unless renewed. Confirm the figure for your filing date with the authority.
Yes. Residents must enrol in the public social security system, the Caja, which carries a recurring contribution based on declared income. Confirm the current amount with the authority.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
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