How to Become a Resident of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the countries that attract a lot of people from different places. This scenic island has a lot to offer for people who enjoy tourism but also for business people. Just like any other country in the world, you will get a chance to live and do in this country once you follow the laid out legal process. Obtaining Costa Rican residency is not a difficult process at all. While some people are able to extend their stay in the country by using apparent tourism loopholes in the law, it is always advisable to follow the right process. Recent laws have particularly tightened the process and citizenship by investment will entail much more than just a desire to live in the country. Here’s how you can become a resident of Costa Rica.

Learn About and Pay Required Residency Fees

Costa Rican residency is offered to individuals as well as families. Typically, every single person needing residency permits will need to pay the required fees individually. Every family member will thus be treated individually. In general, you do not need a huge investment to complete the process. Among the fees required for residency include:

• Translation and authentication fees
• Permit fees
• Legal requirement fees

In addition, you might need to get the services of legal and immigration officers. Consulting with local firms will thus be invaluable.

Provide and Authenticate Your Documentation

In addition to making the different payments, you will also need to provide a series of documents that are legally required for Costa Rican residency. You might need to spend some money to get some of the documents if you do not have them already. Part of the documentation that every individual must have for a Costa Rican residency includes:

1. A good conduct certificate from your country’s law enforcement agencies. The certificate must be not older than 6 months.
2. A birth certificate.
3. A marriage certificate where applicable.
4. Financial statements or income certification.
5. Legal authorization in case an attorney is working on your behalf.

Liaise with the Costa Rican Authorities for the Finalization of the Process

After getting your documents authenticated and after paying the required fees, you can now obtain translation services from either your local Costa Rican consulate or from the Costa Rican immigration department. Finalizing the immigration process also involves being registered with the Costa Rican social security fund. A 3 years residency is then given to and you can make it permanent after the period is over. Generally, different types of residency are given depending on the applicant’s status. You can be registered as an annuitant, a pensioned retiree, an investor or a company representative. If you are a family member to a Costa Rican resident, you also have a chance to get the citizenship by providing the relevant proof to the authorities. Other forms of residency are given to NGOs and individuals undertaking in special research or professional work.

In Summary

Costa Rican residency is available for people from all walks of life. As long as your documentation is verified, you can be assured of obtaining a permanent stay in this great country.