Investment-based temporary residency requiring minimum $150,000 investment in real estate or business with path to permanent residency.
High-net-worth individuals ready to invest minimum €138,000 in Costa Rican real estate or business and seeking eventual permanent residency
Those without substantial capital, seeking employment flexibility, or unwilling to tie funds to Costa Rica long-term
Must maintain investment throughout residency period, property must be in personal name not corporate, cannot work as employee for others, high financial requirements
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Profession Required | No |
| Job Offer Required | No |
| Sponsorship Required | No |
| License / Recognition Required | No |
| Remote Income Allowed | No |
| Business Activity Required | Yes |
| Health Insurance Required | Yes |
| Proof of Funds Required | Yes |
| Can Apply From Abroad | Yes |
Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Income | €11,484/monthly |
| Minimum Salary | €137,812/year |
| Minimum Savings | €138,000 |
| Application Fee | €243 |
| Est. Total Relocation Cost | €5,200 |
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | Yes |
| Children Allowed | Yes |
| Work Rights | limited |
| Remote Work Rights | limited |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Time to Permanent Residency | 3 years |
| Time to Citizenship | 7 years |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rentista Visa?
Investment-based temporary residency requiring minimum $150,000 investment in real estate or business with path to permanent residency.
Who is the Rentista Visa best for?
This pathway is best suited for: High-net-worth individuals ready to invest minimum €138,000 in Costa Rican real estate or business and seeking eventual permanent residency.
Who should not apply for the Rentista Visa?
This pathway is not ideal for: Those without substantial capital, seeking employment flexibility, or unwilling to tie funds to Costa Rica long-term.
What are the financial requirements for the Rentista Visa?
Applicants need minimum income of €11,484/monthly, minimum salary of €137,812/year, minimum savings of €138,000. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.
How long does it take to process the Rentista Visa?
Processing typically takes 120 to 270 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
Can I bring my family on the Rentista Visa?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents. Your spouse may also be eligible to work.
Can the Rentista Visa lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward permanent residency in approximately 3 years and citizenship in approximately 7 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.
What are the known issues with the Rentista Visa?
Known issues and warnings: Must maintain investment throughout residency period, property must be in personal name not corporate, cannot work as employee for others, high financial requirements. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.
Are there alternative pathways to Costa Rica?
Yes. Costa Rica offers 11 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Costa Rica country page.
What is the cost of living in Costa Rica?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: San José: €1,407/month; Escazú: €1,654/month; Santa Ana: €1,562/month. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Get Your Free VerdictOfficial source: https://migracion.go.cr/