Costa Rica offers temporary residence to investors under the inversionista category. A reduced threshold is in force for a limited window, so timing matters.
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 investor category, known as inversionista, grants a temporary residence permit in exchange for a qualifying investment. It is administered by the Direccion General de Migracion y Extranjeria.
The permit is reported to run for two years and to be renewable while the investment is maintained. After a period of residence, holders may move toward permanent residency and, later, naturalisation under the general rules.
Applicants document a qualifying investment in an approved category. Reported categories include real estate, an active business, company shares, securities, venture capital and tourism projects.
The qualifying amount is reported at 150,000 US dollars during the current window. Confirm the current threshold and accepted asset types with the official authority, since the figure is subject to a sunset date.
Applicants compile evidence of the qualifying investment and lawful funds, then apply for the temporary residence permit. After three years holders may apply for permanent residency, and after seven years of continuous legal residence they may apply for citizenship by naturalisation. Confirm current timelines with the official authority.
The figures below are indicative. Government fees, mandatory contributions and professional costs are additional and change over time.
Investor residency allows the holder to live in Costa Rica and renew while the investment stands. It can build toward permanent residency and a later route to citizenship. Confirm the current pathway with the official authority.
| Item | Indicative amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying investment | 150,000 US dollars | Reduced threshold reported in force through 14 July 2026 |
| Expected threshold after the sunset | 200,000 US dollars | If not renewed by the Legislative Assembly |
| Permit type | Two year temporary residence | Renewable while the investment is maintained |
Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Direccion General de Migracion y Extranjeria (DGME) publishes the binding detail. Verify before you act.
Holders may apply for permanent residency after three years and for citizenship by naturalisation after seven years of continuous legal residence. Confirm the current rules with the official authority.
No. It is reported to be a reduced threshold in force through 14 July 2026, after which it is expected to revert to 200,000 US dollars unless renewed. Verify the current figure with the official authority.
Reported categories include real estate, an active business, shares, securities, venture capital and tourism. Confirm accepted assets with the official 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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