Inversionista Visa (Investor Residency)
Category: Migration · Processing time: 6-12 months /,
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Apply through official authority
Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería
Always submit applications through the official source. Last verified 2026-10-03.
Visa type
Migration
Processing time
6-12 months /,
Fees
MinIncomePoints: Minimum investment of USD 150,000 (~EUR 138,000) in a Costa Rican business, real estate, or qualifying asset
Validity
Temporary residency valid for 2 years, renewable.
Stay duration
Indefinite as long as the investment is maintained.
Entry type
Confirm single/multiple entry rules
Insurance
Confirm if required
Bookmark
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Overview
The Inversionista Visa (Investor Residency) is a pathway for individuals who wish to reside in Costa Rica by making a significant investment. This visa allows investors to gain residency and
- Leads to permanent residency: No
- Requires job offer: No
- Language required: No
- Minimum education: Not specified
- Financial requirement: Minimum investment of USD 150,000 in a Costa Rican business, real estate, or qualifying asset.
Estimated Costs
- - MinIncomePoints: Minimum investment of USD 150,000 (~EUR 138,000) in a Costa Rican business, real estate, or qualifying asset
- - MinSavings: ,
- - PathToPr: ,
- - PathToCitizenship: ,
Required Documents
- - Proof of investment (e.g., business registration, property deed)
- - Valid passport
- - Background check certificate
- - Proof of financial means
- - Recent bank statements
Application Steps
- Gather required documents.
- Submit application to the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Wait for processing (6-12 months).
- Receive your visa approval.
Always confirm the latest steps and forms on the official portal: Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería →
Travel Insurance Requirement
- Mandatory: Confirm with official source
- Minimum coverage: Confirm current coverage rules
- Valid regions: Confirm accepted regions
- Approved providers: Use providers accepted by the official authority
Embassy, Consulate & Appointments
Embassy, consulate, jurisdiction, and appointment details vary by applicant location. Confirm the correct office before booking travel or paying fees.
Open appointment or official portal →Browse foreign embassies in Costa Rica (MigrantIQ directory) →
Directory listings are for planning only — not legal advice. Confirm jurisdiction and appointment rules on the official portal.
Application checklist
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Benefits & What This Visa Allows
- - Citizenship timeline:,
Trust & safety
Before you pay or submit documents
Use the official portal for applications and payments. Be careful with agents who guarantee approval, ask for personal-account transfers, or pressure you to send originals before a written contract.
Relevant laws
- Work Authorisation Rules
Employment · Severity: Critical
In Costa Rica, understanding work authorization rules is critical for anyone looking to work in the country, whether as a local or a foreign national. You should note that not all visas grant the right to work. For…
- Tax Residency and Income Reporting
Tax · Severity: High
Tax residency in Costa Rica is determined by various factors including the duration of your stay, employment status, and residency registration. If you live in Costa Rica for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you…
- Immigration Status and Overstay Rules
Immigration · Severity: Critical
Your ability to remain in Costa Rica is contingent upon the specific visa, residence permit, entry stamp, or visa-free allowance you possess. Many individuals, including tourists, students, workers, families, and…
Active scam alerts
In Costa Rica, some agents exploit newcomers by overcharging for essential services related to document translation, notarization, or apostille certification. This scam particularly targets visa applicants, families,…
In Costa Rica, a scam has emerged where individuals impersonate airport staff, immigration officials, or travel agents. They claim that newcomers must pay a special fee to enter the country, expedite their processing,…
In Costa Rica, the scam involving fake university or scholarship letters poses a significant risk to students, parents, and scholarship applicants. Fraudsters often impersonate educational institutions or scholarship…
In Costa Rica, a common housing scam targets newcomers, particularly students, families, and remote workers. Scammers create fake listings for apartments or houses, often using attractive photos and enticing rental…
Quick Eligibility Check
Use this self-check for Inversionista Visa (Investor Residency). It does not replace official legal assessment.
Common Rejection Reasons
- - Insufficient proof of the source of funds for the investment.
- - Inadequate documentation or missing documents.
- - Failure to meet the minimum investment requirement.
Application Tips
- - Ensure all documents are translated into Spanish and notarized if necessary.
- - Consult with a local attorney to verify compliance with all legal requirements.
- - Prepare a detailed business plan if investing in a business to support your application.
Sources & References
Use these references for verification. Official government and appointment portals override summary guidance on MigrantIQ.
- Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería
Official source for forms, appointments, fees, and final requirements.
- MigrantIQ visa record
Last verified 2026-10-03.
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Frequently Asked Questions
This visa is designed for applicants matching Migration pathway criteria.
Typical processing time is 6-12 months /,, subject to documentation quality and application volume.
Start with eligibility evidence, document checklists, and proof of funds before submitting.