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Costa Rica's Independent Means Visas

The Independent Means Visa in Costa Rica, also known as the Costa Rica Retirement Visa or the Pensionado Visa, offers temporary residency to qualified individuals who can demonstrate a stable passive income from foreign sources.

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Costa Rica - Independent Means Visas

Discover Independent Means Visa in Costa Rica

The Independent Means Visa program in Costa Rica provides a pathway to temporary residency for individuals with stable foreign-sourced passive income. This program is designed to attract retirees, investors, and other individuals looking to establish residency in a Central American paradise known for its natural beauty and high quality of life.

Minimum Income Amount

US$2,500 per month

Visa-Free Travel Countries

145

Months to Visa

2-3 months

Overview

A Snapshot of Independent Means Visa in Costa Rica

A route to temporary residency for qualified individuals with passive income in Costa Rica

Eligibility Requirements

Individuals with passive income from a foreign source

Anchor Ancestor restrictions

Months to citizenship

Length of Visa

Temporary residency, renewable every 2 years

Months to Visa

2-3 months

Physical Presence Requirement

4 months per year

Availability

High

Family Allowance

Spouse and children

Overview

Benefits of Independent Means Visa in Costa Rica

Independent Means Visa in Costa Rica

The program offers numerous advantages for individuals looking to establish their presence in Costa Rica's tropical paradise.

  • Fast-track to temporary residency for you and your immediate family
  • Access to Costa Rica's public healthcare system (Caja)
  • Potential pathway to permanent residency after 3 years

How to Apply for the Independent Means Visa in Costa Rica

Submit application in person at the Costa Rican Immigration Office or through a licensed attorney

Overview

Requirements for Costa Rica's Independent Means Visa

To qualify for the Independent Means Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria demonstrating their stable passive income.

  • Prove a monthly passive income of at least US$2,500 from foreign sources
  • Demonstrate that the income is stable and guaranteed for at least 2 years
  • Be able to transfer the income to a local bank in Costa Rica
  • Have a clean criminal record
  • Contribute to the Costa Rican Social Security system (Caja)
  • Reside in Costa Rica for at least 4 months per year

Overview

Documents Needed for Costa Rica's Independent Means Visas

Completed and signed visa application form

Recent Passport Photo

Copy of the Information of Passport

Proof of passive income for the last 2 years

Bank statements showing income transfers

Police clearance certificates

Birth Certificate

Marriage Certificate

Proof of address in Costa Rica

Letter explaining reasons for seeking residency

Discover How GlobalPassport Simplifies the Application Process for Costa Rica's Independent Means Visas

Step-by-Step Guidance

Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.

Document Preparation

We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.

Application Submission

Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.

FAQs about Costa Rica's Independent Means Visas

How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?

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Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?

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What types of income qualify as passive income?

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How often do I need to renew my residency permit?

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Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for Costa Rican citizenship?

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Why Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a stable democracy, excellent healthcare, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Benefits:

  • High-quality public healthcare system
  • No tax on foreign-source income
  • Beautiful beaches and lush rainforests

Advantages:

  • Stable political environment
  • Friendly local culture
  • High standard of living

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