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2026 Program Guide

Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

Costa Rica's Remote Worker Stay (Estancia para Trabajadores Remotos, Law 10008) grants one year, renewable once, to remote workers with foreign-source income of at least USD 3,000 per month (USD 4,000 with family). Foreign income is not taxed, and equipment can be imported duty-free.

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Program
Remote Worker Stay (Law 10008)
Income
USD 3,000/month (USD 4,000 with family)
Duration
1 year, renewable once (2 years)
Tax
Foreign income not taxed
Insurance
≥USD 50,000 health coverage

Who is it for?

  • Remote workers wanting a nature-rich base with no tax on foreign income.
  • Those with USD 3,000/month income (USD 4,000 with family).
  • Nomads who value stability, safety and the pura vida lifestyle.
  • Those who can spend meaningful time in-country to renew.

Remote Worker Stay (Law 10008)

Costa Rica's Remote Worker Stay, created under Law 10008, is granted to people working remotely for foreign employers or clients. It requires stable foreign-source income of at least USD 3,000 per month, rising to USD 4,000 per month for applicants bringing family. The stay is valid for one year and can be renewed once, for a total of two years.

Tax and Practical Benefits

Income earned abroad is not taxed in Costa Rica under this stay, and holders can import work equipment free of import duties. Health insurance with at least USD 50,000 of coverage is required. Renewal requires spending at least 80 days in the country during the first year; the stay does not by itself lead to permanent residence.

Benefits

  • No tax on foreign income.
  • Duty-free import of work equipment.
  • Nature, stability and the pura vida lifestyle.
  • Family members can be included (USD 4,000/month).

Requirements

  • Foreign-source income of USD 3,000/month (USD 4,000 with family).
  • Health insurance with at least USD 50,000 coverage.
  • Clean criminal record.

Costs

Proof of income
USD 3,000/month (family USD 4,000)
Fees
Additional fees apply

Process

  1. Eligibility check

    Confirm foreign-source income of USD 3,000/month (USD 4,000 with family) sustained over 12 months.

  2. Document preparation

    Gather income proof, health insurance of at least USD 50,000 and a clean record.

  3. Application

    Apply to Costa Rican immigration for the Remote Worker Stay under Law 10008.

  4. Approval and card

    On approval, complete registration and receive your stay authorization.

  5. Renewal

    Renew once for a second year; renewal requires at least 80 days in-country.

FAQ

What income is required?
At least USD 3,000 per month in foreign-source income, or USD 4,000 per month when bringing family.
Is my income taxed?
No. Foreign-source income is not taxed in Costa Rica under the Remote Worker Stay.
How long can I stay?
One year, renewable once for a total of two years; renewal requires at least 80 days in-country.
Is health insurance required?
Yes, coverage of at least USD 50,000 is required for the duration of the stay.

Sources

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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