For applicants with stable funds who do not need local employment.
Route overview
Fixed income or deposit proof
Typical timeline / duration: 3-8 months
Important notes
Prove permanent and stable monthly rentista income of at least US$2,500 from abroad or from a Costa Rican national banking system source.
Submit the identity, criminal-record, financial, and other application documents required by the Directorate General of Migration or the competent Costa Rican consulate, with foreign documents apostilled or legalised as required.
If including dependants, use the same qualifying rentista amount to request status for a spouse and children under 25, or adult children with disabilities, subject to the official family-document rules.
Maintain the conditions for the category and obtain or maintain the required Costa Rican Social Security Fund coverage for renewal and residence documentation.
Costa Rica classifies rentistas as temporary residents: the authorisation is for more than 90 days and up to two years, and may be extended for the same period when the conditions remain satisfied.
Temporary residents may only perform remunerated or profit-making activities specifically authorised by the Directorate; rentista status is not an automatic open work permit.
Preparation checklist
Save submitted files and track the next application, reporting, or renewal date.