Costa Rica’s remote worker stay permit gives digital nomads up to two years in the country, with an exemption from local income tax on foreign-sourced income and duty-free import of work equipment. It is one of the most straightforward programmes in Latin America, with a clear income test and a short decision time.
| Official name | Estancia para Trabajadores o Prestadores de Servicio Remoto |
| Income requirement | US$3,000 a month for one person, US$4,000 with dependants |
| Duration | 1 year, renewable once, for a maximum of 2 years |
| Insurance | Minimum US$50,000 medical cover |
| Decision time | About 15 calendar days (as reported) |
| Citizenship pathway | No |
Income Rules
You need to show US$3,000 a month if you apply alone, or US$4,000 a month if you bring dependants. Income must come entirely from outside Costa Rica. Reported rules allow proof of stable income or a 12-month average, converted at the Central Bank’s official rate.
Requirements
- A signed application form and a copy of your passport
- Proof of income, such as 12 months of bank statements, or a certification from a public accountant or notary, apostilled if issued abroad
- Medical insurance with at least US$50,000 of cover for your whole stay, including every family member
- Proof of payment of the government deposit
- Extra documents may apply to dependants or particular nationalities
Costs
Reported government costs are a US$100 deposit and a separate US$90 immigration document fee. Bank transfer charges are extra, so send enough to cover the full amount. Check the current fees with the immigration authority.
How to Apply
- Gather income proof and buy qualifying insurance.
- Pay the deposit as instructed by the immigration authority (DGME).
- Apply online through the official portal or in person at a DGME office.
- Respond within the deadline if the authority asks for missing documents.
- After arrival, complete biometric registration in San José within three months to obtain your residency card.
Renewal
The permit lasts one year and can be renewed once. Renewal reportedly requires at least 180 days of physical presence in Costa Rica and must be done in person.
Tax and Equipment
Costa Rica taxes income on a territorial basis, and holders are exempt from local income tax on foreign-sourced income. Local purchases carry VAT of 13%. Electronic and telecommunications equipment you need for remote work can be imported duty-free under the programme. Your home country may still tax you, so check with an adviser.
Family
A spouse or partner, unmarried children under 25 and children of any age with disabilities can be included.
Common Mistakes
- Using income earned from Costa Rican sources, which does not count.
- Buying insurance that does not cover every family member.
- Missing the 180-day presence rule for renewal.
- Forgetting the biometric appointment after arrival.
Where to Live
San José, the Central Valley and beach towns on both coasts are popular. Read our destinations hub for related guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay longer than two years? Not on this permit. After two years you would need a different residency category.
Do I pay Costa Rican income tax? As reported, not on foreign-sourced income.
Can my family come? Yes, with a higher income threshold and their own insurance.
These figures come from secondary sources checked in 2026 and may change. Confirm the current requirements and fees with the Costa Rican immigration authority before applying.
Related: All digital nomad visas | Colombia Digital Nomad Visa | Health insurance for digital nomads