FAQ
Common questions.
How much income do I need for the Costa Rica retirement visa?
A pension from abroad of at least USD 1,000 a month, paid every month for good.
Is there an age limit for the Costa Rica retirement visa?
The law sets no age limit for pensioners.
What do I need for the Costa Rica retirement visa?
The official page asks for: proof of a monthly pension from abroad and cover from the CCSS public health system.
Do I need health insurance?
Every migration application needs cover from the public health system, the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS).
Can I work on the Costa Rica retirement visa?
Temporary residents can only do the paid work that the migration office allows.
How long do I need to spend in Costa Rica?
There is no yearly minimum in the law. Temporary residence is cancelled if you are away for more than 2 years in a row, unless there is a good reason such as health.
Does the Costa Rica retirement visa lead to permanent residence?
After 3 years in a row of temporary residence you can apply for permanent residence.
How long does the Costa Rica retirement visa last?
Temporary residence is given for up to 2 years. Yes, for the same length of time.
How much does the Costa Rica retirement visa cost?
The law adds a USD 25 charge when residence is granted and at each renewal. Other fees are set by the migration office.
Who can apply for the Costa Rica retirement visa?
Open to citizens of any other country. People who get a regular monthly pension paid from abroad.
Can I bring my family?
Pensioners can include their dependants in the application.
How do I apply?
At the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería) in Costa Rica.
Sources
- Costa Rica: Temporary residence for pensioners (Pensionado) (sinalevi.go.cr)
- Costa Rica: how to apply (migracion.go.cr)
- Costa Rica: Temporary residence for pensioners (Pensionado) (sinalevi.go.cr)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.