Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa 2026
Digital Nomad Visa (Ley Nómada Digital) · Latin America
Income requirement
On the WhereNext digital-nomad-visa index this visa ranks #5 of 35 (score 72) on income floor, permitted stay, tax treatment, fee and processing time.
The modeled threshold is about $3,000/month (native figure above is binding). On that basis: at $2,000/mo you are ~$1,000 short; at $3,500/mo you clear it; at $5,000/mo you clear it with margin. Row figures verified 2026-10-13.
Key facts
- $36,000/yr minimum income (≈$3,000/mo)
- $100 official application fee
- ~15 days typical processing time
- 12 months initial term, renewable up to 24 months
- Territorial — foreign income not taxed Territorial tax: foreign income not taxed regardless of residency
- Launched 2022 Law 10008 + implementing regulation
Official source · Source: Instituto Costarricense de Turismo — Digital Nomad requirements · Last verified Oct 13, 2026 · Verify current rules with an authorized immigration adviser or the destination's consulate before applying.
Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa: FAQ
What is the minimum income requirement for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?▾
The Digital Nomad Visa (Ley Nómada Digital) requires a minimum income of $36,000 per year (about $3,000 per month). $3,000/month income for one applicant; remote work for a foreign company. Confirm the family threshold with the issuer; its detailed and summary pages differ. No savings-only alternative is stated on the issuer's requirements page.
How much does the Costa Rica digital nomad visa cost?▾
The official application fee for the Digital Nomad Visa (Ley Nómada Digital) is approximately $100. This government processing fee excludes legal help, translation, or health-insurance costs.
How long does approval take for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?▾
Processing typically takes around 15 days from a complete submission, though times vary by consulate and application volume.
Can I work remotely for a foreign employer on the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?▾
Yes. The Digital Nomad Visa (Ley Nómada Digital) explicitly permits remote work for employers or clients based outside Costa Rica. $3,000/month income for one applicant; remote work for a foreign company. Confirm the family threshold with the issuer; its detailed and summary pages differ. No savings-only alternative is stated on the issuer's requirements page.
How is income taxed on the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?▾
Territorial — foreign income not taxed. Territorial tax: foreign income not taxed regardless of residency. Tax residency rules are individual — verify with a cross-border tax advisor before filing.
How long is the Costa Rica digital nomad visa valid?▾
The Digital Nomad Visa (Ley Nómada Digital) is initially valid for 12 months and is renewable, up to a maximum total stay of 24 months.
Eligibility check
Do you meet Costa Rica's digital nomad visa income requirement?
Annual income: $36,000/yr
A typical $50k–75k remote income clears this threshold.
Source: Instituto Costarricense de Turismo — Digital Nomad requirements · checked 2026-10-13
Modelled estimate from published thresholds — not immigration, legal, or tax advice. Covers income / savings / age only; other eligibility gates are not modelled.
Check your exact income & savings