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The Workers Rights

Remote Work in Costa Rica: How to Qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa & Tax Exemptions

Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

The ability to work remotely while abroad has made Costa Rica an attractive destination for English-speaking expatriates looking to extend their travel time by working in a foreign country. The Estancia de Nómada Digital, is a legal framework created by Law for foreign workers, freelancers and entrepreneurs to legally work remotely in the country.

1. Meet the Income Requirement

Consistency of foreign-sourced income is required. A single applicant must provide at least US$3,000 per month and an applicant travelling with dependents must provide a minimum of US$4,000 per month.

Income verification documentation must be for a 12 month period, including bank statements and a sworn affidavit or certified income documentation that the money is from outside Costa Rica.

2. Arrange Qualifying Health Insurance

Health insurance is another requirement. Any and all dependants of the applicant must be covered during the duration of the applicant’s authorised stay.

The amount of medical insurance that must be available under the policy is at least US$50,000 cover per person for Costa Rica. Candidates should therefore ensure they have appropriate long term insurance, which they are able to obtain to show the College before submitting an application.

3. Local Employment Restriction

The visa is for individuals who earn more from other countries than they do in Costa Rica. Upon receiving the status, the applicant will no longer be able to do local work for employers or clients in Costa Rica, or earn income in Costa Rica.

This is a significant consideration as the foreign-sourced earnings are a key pillar of the visa system and its associated benefits.

4. Take Advantage of Visa Benefits

Those who qualify for digital nomads can enjoy some big benefits under existing law. In the prevailing arrangement foreign-sourced income is not subject to Costa Rican income taxes and essential professional equipment may be imported duty-free, if applicable, subject to prior processing.

The status also comes with privileges in the fields of driving and creating a local bank account – both of which affords extended-term living and telework more convenience.

5. Follow the Application Process

Submit important documents including an insurance certificate, passport, and employment documents. All documents not written in Spanish must be translated into Spanish.

The application requires the payment of the mentioned government fee of $100 in the USA and then is submitted via the necessary migration pathway. If she’s approved, workers undergo biometrics and get a DIMEX card.

6. Plan for the Second Year

The initial Digital Nomad Visa is valid for one year, according to the supplied information. The renewal conditions include being physically present in Costa Rica for a minimum of 6 months during the first year of application and will be required for anyone applying for a second year.

It’s particularly important for out-of-country travelers to plan carefully to ensure a full potential stay.

FAQs

What is the necessary amount of income?

The monthly income of a solo applicant should be at least US$3,000 from abroad, and applicants with dependents should be at least US$4,000.

Are there opportunities for Digital Nomads to work for Costa Rican businesses?

No. Income from foreign employers/clients, not from Costa Rican-related sources.

What is the validity period of the visa at first?

The initial status will be in effect for one year, and may be renewed if the following conditions are met.

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About The Workers Rights

Admin at WorkersRights, dedicated to elevating the voices of the vulnerable, shedding light on human rights, labor issues, and the pursuit of a fair work-life balance worldwide.

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