Costa Rica

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Population

5,094,118

GDP

$74.6 billion

Total Area

51,100 sq. km

Capital

San José

About Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a politically stable and eco-conscious country located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua and Panama. It boasts rich biodiversity, protected rainforests, and two coastlines — the Pacific and the Caribbean. The country has no standing army and ranks among the happiest nations globally due to its peaceful lifestyle and excellent quality of life.

Costa Rican residents enjoy access to a universal public healthcare system, affordable cost of living, and a relaxed pace of life. The economy is based on tourism, agriculture, and a growing tech sector. Foreigners are welcome to apply for long-term residence through retirement, digital work, or investment.

Costa Rica is not part of any large political union like the EU, but its passport provides visa-free access to over 150 countries. Residency leads to citizenship in 7 years, offering a secure path to second nationality in a stable, tropical country.

Why Costa Rica

Reasons Why Costa Rica Is One of the Best Countries to Relocate To

Safety

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America. It ranks consistently high in regional safety indexes, with a long-standing democratic tradition and no military since 1949.

Citizenship

Citizenship is available after 7 years of legal residency. Dual nationality is allowed. Applicants must pass a Spanish language and civic knowledge test, and meet residence requirements.

Climate

With year-round warm temperatures and microclimates ranging from beach to mountains, Costa Rica offers a tropical paradise for those seeking sun, nature, and an active lifestyle.

Taxes

Costa Rica uses a territorial tax system — meaning foreign-earned income is not taxed. This makes it attractive for digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs living off global income.

Healthcare

Public healthcare (Caja) is affordable and accessible to residents. Private options are available with low-cost insurance plans and modern facilities in cities like San José and Liberia.

Education

Costa Rica invests heavily in education, offering a literacy rate over 97%. Private and international schools are available, especially in expat-favored areas like Escazú or Guanacaste.

Infrastructure

The country has improved roadways, expanding broadband and mobile coverage, and two major international airports (SJO and LIR), connecting it to North and South America.

Mobility

Costa Rican citizens have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the EU, UK, Japan, and most of Latin America. However, they need a visa for the U.S. and Canada.

Flexibility

Costa Rica offers multiple residency paths: the Pensionado program for retirees, the Rentista option for self-sufficient individuals, and the new Digital Nomad Visa.

Costa Rica Visa Programs?

Investor Visa

Residency by Investment → Pathway to Citizenship

💶 From €250,000 (innovative startup) or €500,000 (company investment)
🕒 Renewable 2-year permit
📅 Family members included
🚪 Access to Schengen Area
📈 Long-term path to permanent residency or citizenship

Italy’s Investor Visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, founders, and high-net-worth individuals looking to establish roots in Europe while benefiting from flexible investment options and tax incentives.

Digital Nomad Visa

Live and Work Remotely from Italy

📅 1-year renewable permit
🏡 Must have remote employment or freelance contracts
💼 Proof of sufficient income required
🚪 Travel freely within Schengen
👪 Family members can join

Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa is designed for professionals working remotely outside Italy. It combines lifestyle perks with European mobility and the charm of living in cities like Florence, Rome, or coastal towns.