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Rentista (Fixed Income) Visa
VisasCosta RicaRentista (Fixed Income) Visa
Costa RicaCosta Rica•North America
Open

Rentista (Fixed Income) Visa

Work Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Application Fee

50 USD

Stay Duration

3 years

Renewable

Yes

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Allowed

PR Pathway

No

Remote Work

Not Required

Official Information

Overview

Temporary residency visa for persons with fixed monthly income of at least USD 2,500 from a guaranteed source lasting minimum 2 years. Alternatively, can deposit USD 60,000 in Costa Rican bank with monthly disbursement schedule. Can lead to permanent residency after 3 years.

The Rentista (Fixed Income) Visa is a temporary residency category designed for individuals who can demonstrate a consistent, reliable income from sources outside of Costa Rica. Unlike the Pensionado visa, which is specifically for retirees with lifetime pension benefits, the Rentista visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and investors who have a stable financial stream. This visa allows holders to live in Costa Rica for two years at a time, with the possibility of renewal, provided they continue to meet the financial and residency requirements. It is a popular choice for those looking to establish a long-term base in the country without seeking local employment.

While the Rentista visa allows for self-employment or the establishment of a business, it strictly prohibits working as an employee for a Costa Rican company. Applicants must prove a minimum monthly income of US$2,500, which can be verified through bank deposits or certified income statements. After maintaining temporary residency for three years, individuals may become eligible to apply for permanent residency. This pathway offers a stable, legal way to enjoy the 'Pura Vida' lifestyle while managing foreign-sourced income, making it a cornerstone of Costa Rica's immigration strategy for independent-means individuals.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Permanent Residency by Prior Temporary Status (Residencia Permanente — Libre Condición)
Costa Rica flagCosta Rica

Permanent Residency by Prior Temporary Status (Residencia Permanente — Libre Condición)

Validity5 years
ProcessingVaries
View Visa Details

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Proof of a stable, guaranteed monthly income of at least US$2,500 for a minimum of two years.

Income must originate from sources outside of Costa Rica (e.g., investments, rental income, or dividends).

The applicant must not be employed by a Costa Rican company (though self-employment or business ownership is permitted).

Must be able to provide documentation of the income source, such as a letter from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or bank certification.

Must maintain legal residency status and comply with renewal requirements, including living in the country for at least 4 months per year.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

none or higher

Min. Income

30,000 EUR/yr

Min. Savings

60,000 EUR

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Passport photos

Income verification letter

Bank deposit proof

Criminal background check

Health insurance

Birth certificate

Fingerprints

Dependent documents

Application Process

1

Gather documentation: Collect income verification or prepare bank deposit proof

2

Prepare documents: Have all documents apostilled and translated to Spanish if necessary

3

Option A: Income Method: Provide official income verification letter from bank or financial institution for 2-year period

4

Option B: Deposit Method: Deposit USD 60,000 in Costa Rican bank account with agreed USD 2,500 monthly transfer schedule

5

Submit application: Apply through Costa Rican immigration office or licensed attorney

6

Pay application fees: Application fee and processing costs

7

Await decision: Processing typically 6-12 months

8

Receive permit: Temporary residency permit issued for 2 years

Application Forms

Rentista Residency Application—

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