Costa Rica — FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to invest for Costa Rica residency?
The reduced 150,000 USD threshold under Law 9996 expired on 14 July 2026; unless it was renewed, the minimum reverts to 200,000 USD in real estate, an active business, shares or securities, with a lower 100,000 USD entry for qualifying forestry projects. Confirm the current figure with the DGME.
Does Costa Rica tax my foreign income?
No. Costa Rica uses a territorial system, so foreign-source income is not taxed, and there is no inheritance or wealth tax. Local income is taxed progressively up to about 25%. This does not remove obligations to a country that taxes on citizenship, such as the United States.
Can Costa Rica residency lead to citizenship?
Yes, but slowly: naturalisation is available after seven years of continuous legal residence, with permanent residence reachable after three. Treat it as a lifestyle and tax base first.