The Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program

Costa Rica’s Residence by Investment Program offers a streamlined path for individuals seeking to reside in this thriving Central American nation. With a steadily growing economy, a favorable tax environment, and a reputation for safety and political stability, Costa Rica is an increasingly popular destination for investors looking for a second home, retirement, or business opportunities. Through this program, investors can gain residency in as little as 9 to 12 months, with the option of applying for citizenship after 7 years (or 5 years for citizens of Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish nations).

Benefits of the Costa Rican Residence by Investment Program

1. Business-Friendly Environment
   Costa Rica is known for its open economy, robust infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies. The country has a strategic location for trade, with easy access to both North and South American markets, making it ideal for entrepreneurs and businesses.
2. Favorable Tax Regime
   Costa Rica offers a tax system that is friendly to investors and entrepreneurs. It does not tax foreign income, making it an attractive option for those seeking to protect and grow wealth.
3. Residence for Family Members
   The program allows the applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under the age of 18, as well as unmarried, dependent children up to the age of 25. Parents of the applicant can also be included, under certain conditions.
4. Citizenship Eligibility
   Investors can apply for Costa Rican citizenship after 7 years of residency. However, Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish citizens can apply for citizenship after just 5 years of residency.

Requirements for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program

Applicants must meet a few basic criteria and choose from one of the investment options listed below. They must also have a clean criminal record and a valid entry visa into Costa Rica.

Investment Options:

1. Investor Residency Category
   Applicants must invest USD 150,000 or more in one of the following options:

2. • Real Estate: Purchase of residential or commercial property.
   • Costa Rican Corporation Shares: Invest in the shares of an operational Costa Rican company.
   • Costa Rican Stock Market: Invest in the local stock market.
3. Retired People Category
   Applicants must show proof of a monthly lifetime pension of at least USD 1,000. This pension can come from a government or private source and must be verifiable.
4. Fixed-Income Residency Category
   Applicants must demonstrate that they receive a monthly income of at least USD 2,500, either from investments, business, or other income sources, coming from abroad or within Costa Rica.

Procedures for the Costa Rican Residence by Investment Program

The process to obtain residency under this program involves the following steps:

1. Document Preparation:
   Applicants must prepare the required documentation, including proof of investment, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents (e.g., a valid passport, proof of income or pension, etc.).
2. Application Submission:
   Once the necessary documents are ready, the application is submitted to the Costa Rican Immigration Department.
3. Temporary Residence:
   Upon approval, applicants are granted temporary residency for two years, with the option to renew for an additional two years. The applicant must also register for social security within 90 days of approval.
4. Investment Maintenance:
   To maintain residency status, applicants must retain their investment or income source (depending on the chosen option). Applicants must also make at least one visit per year to Costa Rica, staying for at least one day.

Acquiring Costa Rican Citizenship

• After fulfilling the residency requirement (7 years for most nationalities, 5 years for Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish citizens), the applicant can apply for Costa Rican citizenship.
• The process involves a legal review and can take several months to complete. Once approved, applicants will enjoy all the rights of Costa Rican citizens, including the right to vote, work, and live permanently in the country.