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Business & investor visas

Costa Rican Pensionado (Retiree) Temporary Residence

Temporary residence for foreign retirees who receive a guaranteed lifetime monthly pension from a government or private source.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

The US$1,000/month pension requirement, two-year validity and CCSS condition are from secondary summaries, not confirmed directly on migracion.go.cr. Verify the current pension threshold and rules on the official site.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Costa Rica government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Residencia temporal como pensionado
Route type
Temporary residence for retirees on pension income
Pension requirement
US$1,000 per month (lifetime, guaranteed)
Reported figure; verify on migracion.go.cr.
Validity
2 years, renewable
Reported; verify on migracion.go.cr.

Who it is for

  • Foreign retirees with a guaranteed lifetime monthly pension
  • Applicants who do not need to work in Costa Rica
  • Their dependants under the dependent category

Requirements

  • Certification of the lifetime pension and its guaranteed monthly amount, legalised or apostilled
  • Signed application with the applicant's details
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs
  • Legalised or apostilled birth and criminal-record certificates
  • Proof of payment of the government fee
  • Enrolment with the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS)

How to apply

  • Obtain certification of the pension and legalise/apostille it
  • Submit the application and documents to the DGME or a Costa Rican consulate abroad
  • On approval, obtain the DIMEX card and enrol with the CCSS; renew every two years

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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