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Estudio — Student Residency (Residencia Temporal — Estudiantes)
VisasCosta RicaEstudio — Student Residency (Residencia Temporal — Estudiantes)
Costa RicaCosta Rica•North America
Open

Estudio — Student Residency (Residencia Temporal — Estudiantes)

Study PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

3-6 months

Application Fee

383 USD

Stay Duration

1 year

Renewable

Yes

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Allowed

PR Pathway

Available

Remote Work

Not Required

Overview

Temporary residency for foreign nationals enrolled in a recognized Costa Rican educational institution, with no work authorization.

The Student Residency in Costa Rica is intended for foreign nationals who wish to pursue academic, technical, or professional studies within the country. This visa allows students to reside legally in Costa Rica for the duration of their educational program, provided they remain enrolled in an institution recognized by the Costa Rican authorities. It is a popular choice for international students seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture while completing their degrees, certifications, or specialized training.

Applicants must prove their enrollment and demonstrate that they have the financial resources to support themselves without needing to rely on local employment. The process involves submitting academic credentials and personal documentation, all of which must be properly legalized or apostilled. This residency status provides a stable legal framework for students, allowing them to focus on their studies without the need for frequent border runs or concerns regarding their immigration status.

Fee Breakdown

Application fee
50 USD
Change of category
200 USD
DIMEX issuance
133 USD

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant1 year
Extension increments1 year

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must be enrolled in a public or private educational institution recognized by the Ministry of Public Education or CONESUP in Costa Rica.

Must provide an official acceptance letter from the institution specifying the duration of the studies.

Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover living expenses during the stay.

Must hold a valid passport.

Must have a clean criminal record from the country of origin or residence for the last three years.

Must provide a birth certificate.

Must be in legal status (e.g., tourist) at the time of application.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

high_school or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Application letter signed by the applicant and authenticated by a lawyer.

Completed and signed personal information form (Hoja de Filiación).

Official acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution.

Proof of economic solvency (e.g., bank statements or certification by a CPA).

Birth certificate (apostilled or legalized).

Criminal record certificate (apostilled or legalized).

Certified copy of all pages of the passport.

Two recent passport-sized photos.

Proof of consular registration.

Proof of payment of government fees and stamps.

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Pathway to permanent residency
  • Access to education

Worth Knowing

  • No work authorization
  • Requires proof of enrollment

Application Process

1

Enter as tourist

2

Submit application to DGME

3

Pay change of category fee

4

Register fingerprints

5

Receive DIMEX ID card

Ready to see if the Estudio — Student Residency (Residencia Temporal — Estudiantes) is your path?

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