Digital Nomad Visas for Costa Rica Made Simple
Costa Rica, a jewel of Central America nestled between the Caribbean and Pacific, offers a paradise of lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant “pura vida.” Its Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers who want to live, work, and thrive here—effortlessly.
Why Choose Costa Rica as Your Digital Nomad Destination?
Unmatched Natural Beauty
From cloud forests to white‑sand beaches, it’s an ideal setting for both productivity and adventure.
Enjoyable environment: Costa Rica is safe, affordable, and brimming with coworking options—even in scenic rural regions.
Micro‑climates & Modern Infrastructure
Work near buzzing cities or tranquil surf towns—fast internet and co‑working hubs make either easy.
Friendly, Stable Culture
Enjoy a relaxed democracy, affordable healthcare, and a welcoming local lifestyle
Living and Working in Costa Rica
Residency perks: Open bank accounts, convert your license, access public healthcare, and more.
Tax advantage: Only taxes local (Costa Rican-source) income—foreign-earned dollars stay tax-exempt.
Why Choose HQ Simple for Your Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa
Navigating the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa process can be complex and time-consuming. HQ Simple simplifies every step, from verifying your eligibility and preparing your application to managing renewals and compliance. Our expert team ensures your submission meets all legal requirements, reducing delays and increasing your chances of approval.
With HQ Simple, you gain personalized support tailored to your unique situation, including guidance on income documentation, health insurance, and local regulations. We handle the bureaucracy so you can focus on embracing your new lifestyle in Costa Rica. Trust HQ Simple to make your transition to working remotely in this beautiful country smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Program at a Glance:
Visa Name - Stay (Estancia) for Remote Workers & Service Providers (Digital Nomad)
Initial Term - 1 year + renewable for a second year
Cost - $100 USD application fee; ~$90 USD renewal
Income Required - ≥ $3,000/month (individual); ≥ $4,000–5,000/month (with dependents)
Health Insurance - Must cover the full duration of stay
Tax Benefits - Exempt from Costa Rican income & import taxes on remote‑earned income
- Pay your fee
- Deposit ~$100 USD for VISA application fee, hold on to receipt.
- Name your documents
- Passport
- Fee receipt
- 12‑month income proof + notarized affidavit
- Health insurance proof
- Application form
- Dependent documentation (birth/marriage certificates, translated if needed)
- Submit your application
- File via the Tramite Ya platform (DGME) or in‑person at a DGME office.
- Get approval
- Government decision within 15 days (usual). Incomplete apps receive notice within 5 days; you have 8 days to correct.
- Finalize on arrival
- Within 3 months: register biometrics in San José with passport photos, consular registration, criminal history, apostilled birth certificate, plus a personal letter.
Yes, digital nomads in Costa Rica can be subject to taxes, but the country's tax system offers significant advantages for remote workers.
Tax Exemptions for Digital Nomads
Costa Rica operates under a territorial tax system, meaning that foreign-sourced income is not subject to local income tax. This exemption applies to digital nomads earning income from clients or employers outside of Costa Rica. Additionally, remote workers are exempt from paying social security contributions under the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS).
Home Country Tax Obligations
While Costa Rica may not tax foreign income, digital nomads must consider their home country tax obligations. For instance, U.S. citizens are required to file federal tax returns and may owe taxes depending on their income level and time spent abroad. However, they can utilize the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), which allows them to exclude a certain amount of foreign-earned income from U.S. taxation, provided they meet specific criteria
Health Insurance and Social Security
While digital nomads are exempt from contributing to Costa Rica's social security system, they are also not eligible for public healthcare services. Therefore, obtaining private health insurance is a requirement for visa holders to ensure access to medical care during their stay .
The easiest places to become a digital nomad are countries that offer streamlined digital nomad visa programs, a lower cost of living, and strong infrastructure for remote work. Some of the easiest destinations for digital nomads include:
Estonia: Known for being the first country to offer a Digital Nomad Visa, Estonia has a straightforward application process and a thriving tech ecosystem, making it an ideal destination for remote workers.
Portugal: With a Digital Nomad Visa and a relatively low cost of living, Portugal is a popular choice for remote workers, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Barbados: The Barbados Welcome Stamp offers an easy visa process and no income tax for remote workers, making it an attractive option for those seeking a tropical lifestyle.
Bermuda: The Work From Bermuda Certificate offers a quick and easy process for digital nomads, along with a high quality of life and beautiful scenery.
Georgia: The Remotely from Georgia program is a simple, affordable option for digital nomads, with no income tax for visa holders.
These countries typically have simple application processes, affordable living costs, and established communities of remote workers. Additionally, HQ Simple can assist with navigating the visa processes and ensure compliance with international employment standards for a smooth transition to life as a digital nomad.
- Foreign nationals working remotely for non‑Costa Rican companies or clients, including freelancers.
- Must meet:
- Stable monthly income requirement.
- Valid health insurance.
- Standard documentation (passport, bank statements, insurance proof).