Costa Rica
Digital Nomad Visa (Law 9996)
Program Details
- Visa Duration
- 1 year (renewable for 1 additional year)
- Dependents Allowed
- Yes
- Spouse Can Work
- No
- Application Fee
- USD 100
- Application Method
- Consulate abroad. Apply at the Directorate General of Migration and Immigration (DGME) in Costa Rica or at a Costa Rican Embassy or Consulate abroad
Who Can Apply
- Eligible Stage
- Entrepreneurs; Digital nomads; Remote workers; Freelancers
- Funding Requirement
- Monthly income of at least USD 3,000 from remote employment or USD 5,000 if bringing dependents; health insurance covering the stay in Costa Rica
Notes
Program Description: Costa Rica enacted Law 9996 to establish a Digital Nomad Visa, which allows non-Costa Rican nationals who work remotely for foreign employers or clients, or who operate businesses legally registered outside Costa Rica, to reside in Costa Rica for up to 1 year.
Visa Duration: The initial visa is valid for 1 year and may be renewed once for an additional year, for a maximum stay of 2 years.
Eligibility: Applicants must work remotely for a foreign employer or operate a business registered outside Costa Rica, demonstrate the required monthly income, and hold health insurance valid in Costa Rica.
Proof of Funds Requirement: Monthly income of at least USD 3,000 for the main applicant, or USD 5,000 if dependents are included.Application Fee: The application fee is USD 100.
Tax Incentives: Holders of the Digital Nomad Visa are exempt from Costa Rican income tax on foreign-sourced income and are exempt from import duties on work equipment such as computers and cameras.
Family Members: Dependents including a spouse and children may be included in the application.
Last Verified: March 2026