Costa Rica•North America3–6 months
$383 USD
Varies by filing options
1 year
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Temporary study residency for foreign nationals enrolled in recognized Costa Rican educational institutions, renewable annually without work rights.
The Student Residency in Costa Rica is intended for foreign nationals who wish to pursue academic, technical, or professional studies within the country. This visa allows students to reside legally in Costa Rica for the duration of their educational program, provided they remain enrolled in an institution recognized by the Costa Rican authorities. It is a popular choice for international students seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture while completing their degrees, certifications, or specialized training.
Applicants must prove their enrollment and demonstrate that they have the financial resources to support themselves without needing to rely on local employment. The process involves submitting academic credentials and personal documentation, all of which must be properly legalized or apostilled. This residency status provides a stable legal framework for students, allowing them to focus on their studies without the need for frequent border runs or concerns regarding their immigration status.
| Initial grant | 1 year |
| Extension increments | 1 year |
Must be enrolled in a public or private educational institution recognized by the Ministry of Public Education or CONESUP in Costa Rica.
Must provide an official acceptance letter from the institution specifying the duration of the studies.
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover living expenses during the stay.
Must hold a valid passport.
Must have a clean criminal record from the country of origin or residence for the last three years.
Must provide a birth certificate.
Must be in legal status (e.g., tourist) at the time of application.
Education
high_school or higher
Application letter signed by the applicant and authenticated by a lawyer.
Completed and signed personal information form (Hoja de Filiación).
Official acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution.
Proof of economic solvency (e.g., bank statements or certification by a CPA).
Birth certificate (apostilled or legalized).
Criminal record certificate (apostilled or legalized).
Certified copy of all pages of the passport.
Two recent passport-sized photos.
Proof of consular registration.
Proof of payment of government fees and stamps.
Discover how your answers compare with the published requirements. 2 minutes. Free trial.
Start Visa Discovery