Temporary Residence for Work (Residencia Temporal por Trabajo)

The Temporary Residence for Work (Residencia Temporal por Trabajo) is designed for foreign nationals who have secured employment with a company based in Costa Rica. This visa is part of the 'Special Category' of residency, as it allows the holder to engage in a labor relationship within the country. Because Costa Rica prioritizes its local workforce, employers are generally required to demonstrate that they have made a good-faith effort to hire a local candidate before sponsoring a foreign worker. This ensures that the foreign hire brings specialized skills or expertise that are not readily available in the local labor market.

The application process is rigorous and requires close coordination between the employee and the employer. The employer must provide extensive documentation regarding their legal standing and their commitment to the employee's social security contributions. Once the application is approved, the worker receives a residency card that authorizes them to live and work in Costa Rica for the duration of their contract. This status is temporary and typically requires renewal if the employment relationship continues. It serves as a vital pathway for international professionals to contribute to Costa Rica's growing sectors, such as technology, engineering, and specialized services.