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
Eligibility check
Confirm foreign-source income of USD 3,000/month (USD 4,000 with family) sustained over 12 months.
Document preparation
Gather income proof, health insurance of at least USD 50,000 and a clean record.
Application
Apply to Costa Rican immigration for the Remote Worker Stay under Law 10008.
Approval and card
On approval, complete registration and receive your stay authorization.
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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