HomeCosta Rica

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

A stable eco-paradise blending breathtaking nature, a thriving expat community, and favorable tax conditions in Central America.

Tourism-driven economy with stable services and banking
Emerging eco-tech scene with some funding access
Tropical climate, beaches, and lush nature
Territorial taxation.
Costa Rica landscape photo

Costa Rica Citizenship and Naturalization

Passport Cover

Grade:

B

Global Rank: 62

Dual Citizenship:Yes

Visa-free Access

129 out of 195 countries

Access to Major Destinations

  • European Union
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • United States
  • China
  • Russia
  • Japan
CategoryDetails
Citizenship by Descent
  • Ancestry Eligibility: Costa Rican citizenship by descent is available for individuals with Costa Rican parents, regardless of place of birth.
  • Requirements: Proof of Costa Rican ancestry (e.g., parent's Costa Rican birth certificate) Birth certificate of the individual claiming citizenship
Naturalizations
  • Minimum Residency: 7 years
  • Physical Presence: At least 6 months per year during the 7-year residency period.
  • Language Test: Yes (Spanish)
  • Renounce Original Citizenship: No
  • Minor Dependants: Yes
Spouse Naturalization
  • Living in Country: 3 years of marriage or residency within the country. Proof of cohabitation and marriage duration required.
  • Living Abroad: 3 years of marriage while living abroad. Proof of the marriage and continuous relationship.
  • Language Test: Yes (Spanish), with possible exceptions.
  • Renounce Citizenship: No
Birthright Citizenship
  • Description: Costa Rican citizenship is granted to children born on Costa Rican territory, except for children of foreign diplomats or enemy nationals during wartime.
  • Conditions: Child born in Costa Rica Child born to a Costa Rican parent abroad
Economic Citizenship (Investment)
  • Allowed: No
  • Investment Requirements:
  • Restrictions:
Other Provisions
  • Child is Citizen: Children born to Costa Rican citizens abroad can acquire citizenship automatically.
  • Specific Nationalities Benefits: No special provisions based on nationality.
Citizenship by Exception
  • Allowed: Yes
  • Details: Exceptionally through special services or contributions to the country, like investments or political contributions.

Taxation Overview

Personal Tax Overview: Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Key information about personal taxation in Costa Rica

Taxation system
Territorial tax system
Personal Income Tax Rate (Up to)
25%

Tax Residency

Normal rule: 183 days

Special rule: No information

Special Tax Regime

No information