... Costa Rica General Information ...

... Options for Living in Costa Rica ...
by Harry Pariser
Author of Explore Costa Rica

Pensionado
You must receive a minimum of US$600 per month from Social Security or a qualified pension or retirement plan. A minimum of US$600 must be changed into colones monthly. You must reside in Costa Rica for a minimum of four months each year. Taxes must be paid on any household goods or cars imported. Although you may set up your own business, you may not work for anyone else.

Rentista
You must prove that you have investments outside the nation which will guarantee $1,000/mo. for the next five years. An alternative is to purchase a CD from a Costa Rica bank that will guarantee you the same level of income. A minimum of $1,000/mo. must be changed in to colones. You must reside in Costa Rica for a minimum of six months each year. Although you may set up your own business, you may not work for anyone else.

Rentista-inversionista (investor)
A minimum of US$50,000 must be invested in projects involving export, tourism, or reforestation or US$200,000 in a Costa Rican business. Temporary residency will be granted for two years. Permanent residency will follow if there are no problems. You must reside in Costa Rica for a minimum of six months each year.

Residency
You must prove a tie to Costa – through blood or by proving that you can support yourself without employment. Although unconditional residency gives you the legal right to work, you must prove that you will not take jobs away from Costa Ricans.

Work permit
This is obtainable through an employer who must prove that there is no Costa Rican qualified to do the job. The permit is valid only so long as you remain employed. Taxes must be paid, but you will receive the same benefits as Costa Rican workers.

Temporary Residency
Granted to teachers, Peace Corps volunteers, diplomats, and other international workers.

Student Visa
If you can show the ability to support yourself and enrollment in a school or university, temporary residency will be granted.

Tourist
You may stay in the country up to 90 days with a passport. If staying for more than 90 days, you need to get an exit permit when you leave, and you must pay for the time you overstay which can be expensive.

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