Immigration
Rentista, pensionado and inversionista categories
The General Migration Act sets out temporary and permanent categories administered by the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería. The pensionado, rentista and inversionista routes are the best-known, and after three years of temporary residence a holder may usually apply for permanent status.
Key rules
- Pensionado requires a lifetime pension of at least USD 1,000 per month.
- Rentista requires stable unearned income of USD 2,500 per month for two years, or a USD 60,000 deposit.
- Inversionista requires an investment of at least USD 150,000 in property, shares or a productive project.
- All residents must enrol in and contribute to the CCSS social-security system.
- Permanent residence is generally available after three years, or immediately for a first-degree relative of a Costa Rican.
Governing law
- Ley General de Migración y Extranjería (Ley 8764 of 2009)Principal migration statute.
- Reglamento de ExtranjeríaCategory requirements and evidence.
In practice
Foreign documents need apostille and official Spanish translation. Appointments are booked through the DGME's online system and can take months, so start well before any current permission expires.