Costa Rica Visa Guide
Your complete guide to Costa Rica visa requirements, including tourist exemptions, the Digital Nomad Visa, Pensionado, and Rentista residency options.
Choose Your Pathway
Costa Rica offers several entry and residency options depending on your purpose of stay, income, and nationality.
Tourist Entry Requirements
Most visitors from the UK, US, Canada, and EU do not need a pre-arranged visa for short stays.
Long-Term Residency
For those looking to stay beyond the initial 90-day tourist period.
Visa Types & Durations
A summary of the most common visa and residency categories available in Costa Rica for 2026.
| Visa / Residency Type | Max Duration | Key Requirement | Work Rights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Entry Stamp | 90 Days | Onward ticket & valid passport | No |
| Digital Nomad Visa | 1 Year (Renewable) | $3,000/mo foreign income | Remote work for foreign entities only |
| Pensionado | 1 Year (Renewable) | $1,000/mo lifetime pension | No (without separate permit) |
| Rentista | 1 Year (Renewable) | $2,500/mo guaranteed income | No (without separate permit) |
| Temporary Resident (Work) | 1-2 Years | Local employer sponsorship | Yes, for sponsoring employer |
How to Apply
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process for long-term residency or visa extensions.
Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME).
Need Help?
Professional guidance can prevent costly delays.
Location: La Uruca, San José
Appointments are mandatory and often book weeks in advance.
Costa Rica Visa FAQ
Everything you need to know about visiting, working, and retiring in Costa Rica.
No, UK citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. You will receive a tourist entry stamp upon arrival, provided your passport is valid and you have proof of onward travel.
Applicants must prove a monthly income of at least $3,000 USD for individuals, or $4,000 USD for families applying together, from remote work or foreign sources. Bank statements for the last 12 months are typically required.
Yes, you can apply for a 90-day extension at the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME) before your initial stamp expires. This requires paying a fee and providing a valid reason, such as ongoing tourism or medical treatment.
The Pensionado visa is for retirees who can prove a lifetime monthly pension of at least $1,000 USD. The Rentista visa is for individuals who can prove a guaranteed monthly income of $2,500 USD for at least two years, or who deposit $60,000 USD into a Costa Rican bank.
Yes, a Costa Rican digital signature (Firma Digital) is now mandatory for submitting residency applications through the DGME online portal. You can obtain this from the Banco Popular or other certified providers once you are in the country.