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Remote work in Costa Rica? Where do I sign up! If you’ve ever wanted to trade in your monotonous desk chair for a hammock under the palm trees, applying for the new digital nomad visa might just fulfill your wildest dreams.
This isn’t a promotional gimmick—it’s a legitimate immigration process to allow international remote workers to stay and work in Costa Rica (for up to two years) without having to do a visa run.
So how does it all happen, who qualifies, what’s the downside (if any)? Read on for all the info below, human to human.
Before We Start: No, You Can’t Just Work at a Beach Bar
Before we dive into the dreamy part—laptops by the ocean, smoothies with a side of jungle—it’s important to get one thing straight: you can’t legally work in Costa Rica without a proper permit. No “helping out at a surf camp,” no pouring mojitos in exchange for rent, no teaching yoga on the sly. It doesn’t matter how laid-back the vibe is—Costa Rican immigration takes this seriously.
I’ve covered this in another article, but it’s worth repeating: if you’re earning income locally without the right visa, you’re putting yourself at risk of fines, deportation, or worse. That’s exactly why the digital nomad visa exists—to give remote workers a legal, stress-free way to live the dream without breaking the rules. Now, let’s talk about how to do it right.
What Is the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa?
Costa Rica introduced the “Estancia para Trabajador y Prestador Remoto de Servicios” (aka the Digital Nomad Visa) in 2022 to attract remote professionals looking to legally live, work, and surf here—without falling into a tourist visa gray zone.
The visa allows:
- 1 year of residency, renewable for an additional year
- Legal remote work status from Costa Rica
- No local income tax on foreign earnings
- A tax exemption on imported work equipment
- Ability to open a local bank account
So yes—you can work on that startup, attend Zoom calls, and enjoy monkeys stealing your fruit all at once.
Digital Nomad Visa in Costa Rica – Who Can Apply?
The requirements are surprisingly straightforward. You’re eligible for the digital nomad visa in Costa Rica if:
- You work remotely for a company or clients outside of Costa Rica
- You earn at least $3,000 USD/month (or $4,000 USD if applying with dependents)
- You have proof of income from the past 12 months
- You can provide health insurance covering your stay
- You have a clean criminal record
Freelancers, business owners, full-time remote employees, and consultants – all welcome.
How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Costa Rica
Costa Rica being Costa Rica, there’s paperwork. But it’s doable. Here’s your quick-start checklist:
- Prepare your documents:
- Passport (valid at least 6 months)
- Bank statements showing your monthly income
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled)
- Proof of health insurance
- Application form (from Dirección de Migración)
- Submit online via the Costa Rica immigration website
- Pay the application fee (approx. $100 USD + $90 for the visa)
- Wait for approval – usually takes 15–45 days
If approved, you’ll get a residence permit that keeps you legal while working remotely, sipping coconut water, and not missing a single Slack message.
Costa Rica vs Other Digital Nomad Visas – Why Here?
Let’s be honest—digital nomad visas are popping up everywhere. Portugal, Spain, Barbados… So what makes Costa Rica special?
- Stable democracy, excellent healthcare, and high-speed internet in most towns
- No local taxes on foreign income (big deal)
- Year-round warm weather, surfable waves, volcanoes, jungle, and tacos
- You don’t need to rent a castle – life here can be surprisingly affordable
And then there’s the vibe. Costa Rica’s “pura vida” isn’t a cliché. It’s a way of life. People here smile more. Time slows down. Your stress levels might actually… vanish.
Remote Work Life in Costa Rica – What to Expect
So, you’ve got the visa. Now what?
- Best towns for nomads? Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Uvita, Puerto Viejo, and San José (if you need city vibes).
- Internet? Fiber is widely available, but double-check before booking long-term stays in more remote areas.
- Coworking? Yes. Dozens of cool spaces near the beach or jungle, often with smoothie bars and toucans overhead.
- Community? Absolutely. Nomads, expats, and travelers are everywhere. It’s easy to connect.
And the work-life balance? Honestly, it’s more like life-work.
Legal Notes and What NOT to Do
Just because you have Wi-Fi doesn’t mean you can “kinda-sorta” work on a tourist visa forever. Many people try. Some get away with it. But legally? It’s a risk.
The digital nomad visa protects you from legal gray zones, helps you open bank accounts, and gives you proper residence status. No stress at immigration, no shady loopholes.
And no—you’re not allowed to work for Costa Rican clients or companies on this visa. It’s strictly for foreign-sourced income.
Need Help Planning Your Remote Life in Costa Rica?
We get it—this isn’t just another vacation. It’s a lifestyle shift.
That’s why at GoExploreWith.me, we don’t just offer tours. We help remote workers find the right town, the best rentals with fast internet, and local experts for everything from car rentals to yoga retreats.
We’ve helped digital nomads settle down in jungle cabins, ocean-view apartments, and everything in between.
Ready to start your new life with your toes in the sand and laptop on a deck? Reach out—we’ll help you plan it.
P.S. Don’t Miss Our Free eBook on Hidden Gems
Before you pack, download our free guide: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
It’s perfect for nomads who want to explore beyond the tourist map. Jungle waterfalls, secret beaches, cozy mountain towns—it’s all in there.
Grab your copy at GoExploreWith.me. It’s free and awesome. Like free Wi-Fi in paradise.
