The premier choice for real estate buyers and investors looking to secure their slice of paradise.
If you have the capital to invest, the Investor category is often the most direct route to securing temporary residency for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents.
The Investment Requirements:
Minimum Investment: You must invest a minimum of $150,000 USD .
Real Estate Focus: Purchasing a home, condo, or land is the most popular way to qualify.
Crucial Title Update: In recent practice, Costa Rican immigration (DGME) requires the property to be titled directly in your personal name to qualify for residency. Historically, buyers used corporate structures (like an LLC or SA ), but this is now heavily scrutinized and often rejected for residency purposes.
No Mortgages: The $150,000 value must be unencumbered equity. You cannot use a property with a mortgage or lien to qualify.
Eco-Investment Alternative: Costa Rica also offers a lowered threshold of $100,000 USD if you are investing in government-approved forestry, reforestation, or environmental projects.
The Benefits: Once approved, you receive a two-year temporary residency card (DIMEX). This status is renewable as long as you hold the investment. After three consecutive years of temporary residency, you become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency , which offers fewer restrictions and the right to work legally for Costa Rican employers.
Costa Rica is more than a destination — it’s one of the most stable and investor-friendly countries in Latin America.
A long-standing democracy with no standing army and decades of political stability.
After 3 years as a temporary resident, you may apply for permanent residency.
Residents gain access to Costa Rica’s highly regarded public healthcare system.
Residency facilitates opening local bank accounts, securing financing, and conducting formal financial transactions.
Costa Rica taxes only income generated within the country. Foreign-sourced income is generally not taxed.
Residency applications can include spouses and dependent children. The year-round tropical climate, strong expat community, natural beauty, and high quality of life are also notable.
No matter which path you choose, the Costa Rican Directorate General of Migration (DGME) requires a standard set of documentation. Preparation is key , as documents must be recent and strictly formatted.
Time in Country: Temporary residents must visit Costa Rica for at least one day per year to keep their status active.
Grupo Diria strongly recommends that you consult with a qualified, licensed Costa Rican immigration lawyer to navigate this process. A legal professional will ensure that all information given on this page is currently up to date and valid, and they can provide personalized guidance tailored specifically to your unique situation, saving you valuable time and ensuring a smooth and successful transition.