Costa Rica is a renowned destination for travelers, as well as those seeking to relocate or retire. The country appeals to many for a variety of different reasons. Costa Rica has one of the highest standards of living in Latin America, with the oldest and most stable democratic government, and it boasts one of the highest literacy rates in the world (96%). Costa Rica is home to more Americans (per capita) than any other country outside of the U.S. and there are many good reasons for this. With a delightful tropical climate, low cost of living, stable democratic government and myriad outdoor activities to partake in year round, Americans seem to have no trouble adopting Costa Rica as their new home.

General Information:

The information in this section describes how to become a permanent or temporary resident of Costa Rica.

If you want to live in Costa Rica permanently, please access Permanent Residency Information.

If you want to stay in Costa Rica for a short or specific period of time See Temporary Visitor information. You may stay in Costa Ricaas a temporary visitor if you are a:

• Business person/person with a job offer, see Employment Authorization Document

• Students, see Student Visas

• Diplomat, see Diplomatic Visas

More Info:

Opening a Personal Bank Account

Permanent Residency Info

Temporary Visitors

Employment Authorization Documents