How to Get Residency in Costa Rica - Everything You Need to Know in 2025
- Mark Savoia
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
Categories such as : Pensionado, Rentista, Inversionista - Plus Digital Nomads, Border Runs, Caja, and Permanent Residency
The 3 Main Temporary Residency Categories
Temporary residency takes 3 years. at the end of those 3 years you will become a permanent resident. for those 3 years you cannot be employed in Costa Rica, but you can own a business in the country, or work remotely.
1. Pensionado (Retiree Residency)
Must show proof of at least $1,000/month in lifetime pension.
Spouse and dependents can be included. (1 Pension will work for a couple)
2. Rentista (Fixed Income Residency)
For non-retirees who can show income.
Must deposit $60,000 USD into a Costa Rican bank, which will be returned to you at $2,500 per month. in 2 years when the funds have ran out, you will have to have to deposit another $60,000 for the final year because temporary residency lasts 3 years, then, you become a permanent resident.
3. Inversionista (Investor Residency)
Requires a $150,000 minimum investment (property, business, or an approved project).
Unlike the other two, you can work within the business you invest in.
Alternative Pathways
Digital Nomad Visa
1-year visa, renewable for another year.
Must earn $3,000/month ($4,000 with dependents).
Perks: tax exemptions, banking privileges, duty-free import of work gear.
⚠️ Important: This is not residency. It does not count toward permanent residency or require Caja enrollment.
Border Runs
Tourist visas are usually 180 days.
some people rely on “border runs” - leaving and re-entering the country to reset the visa.
Once you’ve filed your residency application, you can legally remain in Costa Rica while waiting for approval. However, you may still need to exit every 180 days if you want to keep your driver’s license valid.
Residency and Caja (Public Healthcare System)
Once your residency is approved, you are required to join Caja - Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) - the public healthcare and social security system.
Caja Costs:
Pensionado: ~$80-$150/month, based on declared pension.
Rentista: ~$200-$475/month, based on declared income requirement.
Inversionista: ~$75-$200/month, based on declared income or business activity.
Coverage: Includes and preexisting medical conditions, primary care, hospital visits, prescriptions, maternity, and dependents.
Private Option: Many residents also purchase private insurance for faster and better healthcare, regardless, you have to pay for Caja
From Temporary to Permanent Residency
All 3 categories (Pensionado, Rentista, Inversionista) begin as temporary residency, usually granted for 2 years.
After 3 years of continuous legal residency (with renewals up to date), you can apply for permanent residency.
Why Permanent Residency matters:
No more financial requirements.
You can work freely for any employer in Costa Rica.
Still must pay Caja, but the financial burden of proving income disappears.
Conclusion
Residency in Costa Rica isn’t just about the category you choose - it’s also about understanding Caja contributions and your path toward permanent residency. Whether you’re a retiree, entrepreneur, or investor, knowing the full picture will save you headaches down the road.
At Costa Rica Playbook, we help you choose the right residency path, handle the paperwork, and connect you with trusted attorneys - so your only job is enjoying the pura vida lifestyle.
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