Costa Rica Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa (2026)
Requirements, income thresholds, and step-by-step application guide
Visa Type
Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa
Min. Income (USD)
$3,000/mo
Tax Residency After
183 days
Entry for US Citizens
90-day tourist + visa
What is the Costa Rica Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa?
Costa Rica's Digital Nomad Visa allows a 1-year stay, renewable for a further year. Requires proof of remote income of at least USD 3,000/month (or USD 4,000 with dependants), valid health insurance covering Costa Rica, and a clean criminal record. Apply at a Costa Rican consulate before travel.
Important note: US citizens receive 90 days visa-free. The digital nomad visa is the route for longer stays. Costa Rica does not border any Schengen countries, so there's no cross-border day-trip reset option.
What are the requirements for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?
Most Costa Rica digital nomad visa applications require the following documents. Requirements can change — always verify with the official Costa Rica immigration authority or a licensed immigration attorney before applying.
Valid passport
Typically required to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
Proof of remote income
Bank statements or employment contracts showing at least $3,000/month in consistent remote income.
Health insurance
Valid international health insurance covering your stay in Costa Rica. SafetyWing and Cigna Global are common choices.
Proof of accommodation
Lease agreement, coliving contract, or hotel reservation for initial accommodation.
Clean criminal record
Background check from your home country, often requiring an apostille and certified translation.
Application fee
Consulate application fees vary by nationality and processing location.
Does the Costa Rica digital nomad visa trigger tax residency?
Tax residency in Costa Rica is typically triggered after spending 183 days in a calendar year. If you stay under this threshold, you may avoid Costa Rica tax residency — but you still have obligations in your home country.
183 days in a calendar year triggers Costa Rican tax residency, though the territoriality system means only Costa Rican-source income is taxed — foreign remote income is generally not subject to Costa Rican income tax. This makes it one of the more tax-efficient residency options in the region.
Banking and money in Costa Rica
USD is widely accepted alongside colones, especially in tourist areas, for rent, and in Escazú/Santa Ana. ATMs dispense both currencies. Wise is recommended for receiving money. Local bank accounts (Banco Nacional, BCR) require a cédula de residencia — not practical for short-stay nomads. Most coworking spaces and landlords in expat areas are comfortable with USD transactions.
Top cities in Costa Rica for digital nomads
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Need help with your application?
Visa requirements change fast and mistakes are costly. A qualified immigration attorney can review your application, flag issues before they become rejections, and handle filings on your behalf.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Costa Rica Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa?
Costa Rica's Digital Nomad Visa allows a 1-year stay, renewable for a further year. Requires proof of remote income of at least USD 3,000/month (or USD 4,000 with dependants), valid health insurance covering Costa Rica, and a clean criminal record. Apply at a Costa Rican consulate before travel.
How much income do I need for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?
The Costa Rica Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa requires proof of at least $3,000 per month in remote income. Income proof typically includes bank statements, employment contracts, or client invoices.
Does the Costa Rica digital nomad visa lead to tax residency?
In Costa Rica, tax residency is typically triggered after 183 days in a calendar year. 183 days in a calendar year triggers Costa Rican tax residency, though the territoriality system means only Costa Rican-source income is taxed — foreign remote income is generally not subject to Costa Rican income tax. This makes it one of the more tax-efficient residency options in the region.
Can US citizens get the Costa Rica Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa?
Yes — US citizens can enter Costa Rica visa-free for up to 90 days as tourists, and can apply for the Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa to extend their stay legally for remote work.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa rules, income requirements, and processing times change frequently — always verify current requirements on the official Costa Rica government website or consulate before applying. Settled Nomad is not responsible for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.