Rentista Visa Costa Rica
Learn how the Costa Rica Rentista Visa works, the financial requirements, and how an experienced immigration lawyer can help you obtain legal residency.
What Is the Costa Rica Rentista Visa?
The Rentista Visa is designed for individuals who have a guaranteed, regular income but do not meet the requirements for the Pensionado (Retiree) Visa. It is an excellent option for those with savings, investments, or trust funds.
This temporary residency category allows you to live legally in Costa Rica for two years, after which it can be renewed. It is perfect for expats who want to establish a life in Costa Rica using a stable income source.
Legal Residency
Obtain your DIMEX card and formal legal status in the country.
Income-Based
Qualify using a guaranteed monthly income or a lump sum deposit.
Family Inclusion
Include your spouse and dependent children under 25.
Rentista Visa Requirements
The primary focus of the Rentista category is proving financial stability.
Income Requirements
You must prove a guaranteed income of at least $2,500 USD per month for a minimum of two years. This income cannot be from a salary; it must be guaranteed (e.g., from a trust, annuities, or dividends).
Bank Deposit Option
Alternatively, you can deposit $60,000 USD into an approved Costa Rican bank, which will disburse $2,500 per month to you over the two-year residency period.
Documentation Required
Standard documents include an apostilled birth certificate, an apostilled FBI/federal background check, and official proof of the guaranteed income or bank deposit.
Eligibility Criteria
The primary applicant must be the source of the income. Like other residencies, you must commit to staying in Costa Rica for at least one day per year to maintain status.
Benefits of the Rentista Program
Discover the advantages of choosing the Rentista path.
Business Ownership
While you cannot work as an employee, you can own a business and earn income from it in Costa Rica.
Family Coverage
The single $2,500/month requirement covers the primary applicant, a spouse, and dependent children.
Path to Permanent
After three continuous years as a temporary resident, you can apply for permanent residency.
Healthcare Access
Gain access to the Costa Rican public healthcare system (CCSS/Caja) by paying the monthly contribution.
Common Application Challenges
Proving the "guaranteed" nature of your income is often the most difficult part of the Rentista application.
Strict Income Proof: DGME is very strict about what constitutes "guaranteed" income. A regular salary does not qualify.
Bank Deposit Logistics: If using the $60,000 route, setting up the specific trust or bank letter required by immigration can be complex without legal help.
Document Expiration: Background checks and birth certificates must be issued within a specific timeframe (usually 6 months) of applying.
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