Pensionado Residency in Costa Rica
Why does the Pensionado Residence in Costa Rica represent a strategic option for your retirement?
Costa Rica has established itself as a preferred retirement destination, thanks to its tropical climate, exceptional natural environments and a peaceful and healthy lifestyle. In this context, the Pensionado immigration category is an extremely attractive legal path for retirees who wish to establish their residence in the country in an orderly and safe manner.
To access this category, the applicant must prove the receipt of a life pension of not less than $1,000 per month, issued by an officially recognized entity, whether it is a state social security fund, a private retirement plan company, or any authorized governmental entity.
Legal Aspects and Immigration Specifics of Pensionado Residency
It is essential to understand the specifications of the pensionado residence, as this makes it easier to adapt to life in the country. Below are some key points to consider:
Understanding the legal conditions governing this migratory category is essential for a successful integration in the country. The following are the main normative elements that regulate residence as a Pensionado:
- Temporary Residence: this initial category is valid for two years and may be extended successively. During this period, the resident may establish his/her life in the country while meeting the requirements for permanent residence.
- Permanent Residency: Once a period of three consecutive years has elapsed under the Pensionado status, the applicant may opt for permanent residence without the need to meet new requirements. This status grants long-term immigration stability and full access to rights and benefits as a resident.
- Inclusion of Family Members: The regime allows the incorporation of spouse and dependent children under 25 years of age within the same immigration application, thus promoting family reunification.
- Business Rights: Although the resident pensioner cannot exercise remunerated activities in relation of dependency, he/she can own businesses and receive profits or dividends generated in Costa Rica, which allows maintaining a passive economic participation in the country.
Legal and Practical Benefits of Residing as a Pensioner in Costa Rica
- Tax Exoneration: Pensions received from abroad are exempt from taxes in Costa Rica, according to the current territorial tax regime.
- Affiliation to the Public Health System (CCSS): Upon acquiring the residency, the holder and his/her dependents have access to the national health system, including comprehensive coverage of pre-existing diseases.
- Legal Protection while the residency is being processed: The issuance of the “Hoja Trámite” by the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería allows the legal stay during the whole approval process, guaranteeing legal security to the applicant.
This migratory category represents a reliable and accessible alternative for those who wish to enjoy their retirement in a stable environment, surrounded by nature and with significant benefits in health and quality of life.
If you wish to receive personalized advice or more details about this process, our legal team will be pleased to assist you at JAROS Costa Rica.
Requirements for Pensionado Residency
- Proof of Pension: Documentation showing your permanent pension or retirement fund.
- Criminal Background Check with apostille.
- Birth Certificate with apostille.
- Marriage Certificate with apostille(if applicable): A certified copy of your marriage certificate, required if you plan to bring your spouse.
- Consular Registration
- Passport size photographs
- Migration Application Form
- Fingerprints from Costa Rica M.S.P
Note:
- All the documents should be apostilled in your country of origin (if your home country is not part of the Apostille Convention, the documents should be authenticated or legalized in the Embassy of Costa Rica in your country of origin).