Student Visa

The Student Visa is a special category residency permit established to facilitate international educational exchange and academic research in Costa Rica. Recognized under the country's immigration regulations, this visa fills the gap for foreign nationals who wish to pursue long-term studies at accredited educational institutions. By providing a formal legal framework for students, the government encourages the exchange of knowledge and cultural integration, ensuring that international learners have a secure and authorized status for the duration of their academic programs.

This visa is for international students who have been formally accepted into a public or private educational institution recognized by the Costa Rican Ministry of Education. It is distinctive because it is a purpose-specific permit that requires proof of sufficient financial resources—often demonstrated through savings of at least USD 29,710—to cover living expenses and tuition. Applicants must also maintain mandatory health insurance and provide proof of enrollment. It is the essential pathway for anyone planning to study in Costa Rica for longer than the 90-day period typically granted to tourists.