Digital Nomad Visa Costa Rica 2026 — Requirements, Cost & How to Apply

Everything you need to know about working remotely from Costa Rica — updated for 2026.

Home › Digital Nomad Visas › Costa Rica
Income Requirement
$3,000/month (or $60,000/year)
Processing Time
2-4 weeks
Duration
1 year (renewable for 1 additional year)
Renewable
Yes (once)
Tax Implications
Territorial tax system — no tax on foreign-sourced income
Path to Residency
Possible through other visa categories after DN visa

Requirements for Costa Rica's Digital Nomad Visa

  • Proof of remote work for a foreign company or own business
  • Monthly income of at least $3,000 or annual income of $60,000
  • Health insurance valid in Costa Rica
  • Clean criminal record
  • Valid passport with 6+ months validity
  • Proof of remote work capability

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. 1Create an account on the Costa Rican immigration (DGME) website
  2. 2Complete the online application form
  3. 3Upload all required documents
  4. 4Pay the application fee
  5. 5Wait for processing (2-4 weeks)
  6. 6Receive approval and travel to Costa Rica
  7. 7Visit the immigration office for your ID card

Cost Breakdown

Application Fee
$100-250
Health Insurance
$80-200/month
Monthly Living Costs
$1,200-2,500/month (San Jose, beach towns); $800-1,500/month (rural areas)

Tax Implications in Costa Rica

Costa Rica operates a territorial tax system, meaning only Costa Rican-sourced income is taxed. Foreign income earned through remote work for foreign clients is generally not subject to Costa Rican tax. Progressive rates from 10-25% apply to local income.

Pros and Cons of Costa Rica for Digital Nomads

Advantages

  • ✔ No tax on foreign-sourced income (territorial system)
  • ✔ Stunning natural beauty (beaches, rainforests, volcanoes)
  • ✔ Pura Vida lifestyle and friendly culture
  • ✔ Stable democracy with no military
  • ✔ Growing digital nomad community
  • ✔ Year-round warm climate

Disadvantages

  • ✘ Internet can be unreliable outside urban areas
  • ✘ Road infrastructure is poor in many areas
  • ✘ Rainy season (May-November) can be intense
  • ✘ Higher cost of living than other Latin American countries
  • ✘ Limited public transportation
  • ✘ Healthcare quality varies outside San Jose

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I pay taxes in Costa Rica as a digital nomad?+
Costa Rica uses a territorial tax system, so foreign-sourced income is generally not taxed. Only Costa Rican-sourced income is subject to local taxation.
What is the income requirement?+
$3,000/month or $60,000/year from remote work for foreign employers or your own foreign business.
Is Costa Rica safe?+
Generally one of the safest countries in Central America. Beach towns and expat areas are generally very safe.
Where do digital nomads typically live?+
Popular: Santa Teresa, Tamarindo, Nosara (surf towns), San Jose (capital), La Fortuna (volcano area).
How is the internet?+
Urban areas and tourist towns have decent internet (30-100 Mbps). Remote areas can be unreliable.
Can I bring my family?+
Yes, spouse, children under 25, and parents over 55 can be added as dependents.

Check If You Qualify for Costa Rica

Take our free assessment to find out if Costa Rica's digital nomad visa matches your profile, income, and goals.

Get Your Free Verdict

How Costa Rica Compares to Other Digital Nomad Visas

See how Costa Rica's income requirements, tax benefits, and visa duration stack up against other popular destinations.

Income: $3,000/month (or $60,000/year)Duration: 1 year (renewable for 1 additional year)Processing: 2-4 weeks
View full comparison table →