Learn the requirements, application process and how an experienced Costa Rica immigration lawyer can help you obtain legal status in Costa Rica.
The Estancia para Trabajadores o Prestadores Remotos de Servicios (Digital Nomad Visa) is a legal status designed specifically for remote workers, freelancers, and business owners who want to live in Costa Rica while working for foreign clients or companies.
This visa allows you to stay in Costa Rica for up to one year, with the option to renew for an additional year, providing a streamlined alternative to traditional residency for those who don't plan to settle permanently or don't yet qualify for other residency categories.
Valid for 12 months with a simple renewal process for a second year.
Leave and re-enter Costa Rica freely during the validity of your visa.
Income must be generated from sources strictly outside of Costa Rica.
To qualify for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet specific financial and employment criteria.
Proof of stable monthly income of at least $3,000 USD.
Income must be generated from outside Costa Rica.
Bank statements from the previous 12 months demonstrating this income.
Valid medical insurance covering your entire stay in Costa Rica (at least $50,000 coverage).
Proof of stable monthly income of at least $4,000 USD combined.
Marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificates (for dependents under 25).
All documents must be properly apostilled or legalized.
Valid medical insurance covering all family members.
Why remote workers are choosing Costa Rica.
Total exemption from income tax on your foreign-earned income.
Exemption from import taxes on equipment needed for your remote work.
Use your home country's driver's license for the duration of your visa.
Ability to open local Costa Rican bank accounts.
Gather bank statements, apostilled vital records (if applying with family), and proof of employment or freelance contracts.
All foreign documents must be officially translated into Spanish by a certified Costa Rican translator.
Your attorney submits the complete digital or physical application to the Costa Rican immigration department (DGME).
Once approved, you will process your immigration ID card (DIMEX) and register your fingerprints.
While the Digital Nomad Visa is designed to be faster than traditional residency, the bureaucratic process still requires precise attention to detail. An immigration lawyer ensures your application is complete and correctly formatted.
A common misconception is that the online portal is easy to navigate alone. However, minor errors in document formatting, translation requirements, or bank statement presentation frequently lead to rejections or lengthy delays.
Avoid these pitfalls that can delay or derail your Digital Nomad Visa approval.
Providing summaries instead of full, officially stamped bank statements showing the exact required income deposits.
Submitting travel insurance that does not explicitly cover medical expenses up to $50,000 for the full year in Costa Rica.
Failing to properly apostille or legalize foreign documents like marriage certificates or background checks.
Connect with a qualified attorney to handle your Digital Nomad Visa.
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Discuss your visa options directly with the attorney.
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