Invest $150,000 in Real Estate.
Get Costa Rica Residency.
Purchase qualifying property and obtain permanent residency in one of the world's most beautiful countries. We guide you every step of the way.
How It Works
Three simple steps to your new life in Costa Rica
Choose Your Property
Browse our curated collection of properties across Costa Rica. From beach villas to mountain retreats, find an investment that matches your lifestyle and budget ($150,000+ to qualify for residency).
Complete the Legal Process
Our trusted immigration attorneys handle your residency application while our team manages property due diligence, closing, and title transfer. We coordinate everything.
Receive Your Residency
Once approved, you receive your DIMEX residency card granting permanent residency in Costa Rica. Enjoy visa-free living, healthcare access, and all the benefits of being a resident.
Investment Requirements
What You Need
- ✓Minimum $150,000 USD real estate investment
- ✓Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- ✓Clean criminal background check (from home country)
- ✓Proof of investment (property deed registered in your name)
- ✓Immigration application forms and fees (~$300)
- ✓Local attorney to process your application
Qualifying Properties
- ✓Residential homes, villas, and condos
- ✓Commercial and business properties
- ✓Undeveloped land and agricultural farms
- ✓Multiple properties can be combined to meet the threshold
- ✓Property must be legally titled and registered
- ✓Must maintain investment while holding residency
Benefits of Costa Rica Residency
Territorial Tax System
Only taxed on Costa Rica-sourced income. Foreign pensions and investments are typically tax-free.
Healthcare Access
Enroll in CAJA (public healthcare) for comprehensive coverage at ~$100/month, or choose excellent private healthcare.
No Minimum Stay
Visit Costa Rica just once every 2 years to maintain residency. Perfect for part-time residents and investors.
Path to Citizenship
After 7 years of residency, you can apply for Costa Rica citizenship and passport.
Family Included
Spouse and dependent children qualify as dependents under your investment residency.
Low Property Taxes
Property tax is just 0.25% of the registered value per year. No capital gains tax on primary residence.
Stable Democracy
Costa Rica has been a stable democracy since 1948. No military, strong institutions, and rule of law.
World-Class Nature
6% of the world's biodiversity, 800+ miles of coastline, volcanoes, rainforests, and year-round warm climate.
Growing Expat Community
Join 120,000+ expats from North America, Europe, and beyond who already call Costa Rica home.
Residency Options Compared
| Feature | Inversionista | Pensionado | Rentista |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirement | $150K+ property | $1,000/mo pension | $2,500/mo income |
| Asset Ownership | Yes - real estate | No | No |
| Rental Income | Yes | No | No |
| Property Appreciation | Yes | No | No |
| Best For | Investors & families | Retirees | Remote workers |
| Processing Time | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 6-12 months |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum investment for Costa Rica residency?
As of 2024, the minimum real estate investment required for Costa Rica investment residency (Inversionista) is $150,000 USD. The property must be registered in your name and maintained for the duration of your residency.
How long does the investment residency process take?
The typical timeline is 6-12 months from property purchase to receiving your residency card (DIMEX). This includes property due diligence, purchase closing, residency application filing, and immigration processing.
Can I work in Costa Rica with investment residency?
Investment residency grants you the right to live in Costa Rica permanently. However, to work as an employee, you need a separate work permit. You can operate your own business or receive income from your investment property (rentals) without additional permits.
What types of property qualify for investment residency?
Any legally registered real estate in Costa Rica qualifies, including residential homes, condos, commercial properties, land, and farms. The total investment must meet or exceed the $150,000 USD threshold. Multiple properties can be combined to meet the requirement.
Do I need to live in Costa Rica full-time?
As a resident, you must visit Costa Rica at least once every two years to maintain your residency status. There is no requirement to live full-time in the country. Many investors use their property as a vacation home or rental investment.
What are the tax implications of Costa Rica residency?
Costa Rica uses a territorial tax system - you are only taxed on income earned within Costa Rica. Foreign income, pensions, and investment returns from outside Costa Rica are generally not taxed. Property taxes are very low (0.25% of registered value annually).
Can my family also get residency through my investment?
Yes! Your spouse and dependent children (under 25 if studying, or under 18) can obtain residency as dependents of the primary investor. Each dependent requires their own application but does not need a separate investment.
What is the difference between Investment, Pensionado, and Rentista residency?
Investment (Inversionista) requires a $150,000+ real estate investment. Pensionado requires $1,000/month in pension income. Rentista requires $2,500/month in stable income for 2+ years. Investment residency is the most popular for those wanting to buy property.
Ready to Start Your Costa Rica Journey?
Browse qualifying properties starting at $150,000 or speak with our relocation experts today.