Costa Rica•North America3-12 months
USD $50
Varies by filing options
2 years
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Employer-sponsored work residence for foreign professionals; 2 years renewable with a pathway to permanent residency in Costa Rica.
The Temporary Residence for Work is Costa Rica's employment-based visa for foreign nationals sponsored by Costa Rican employers. Applicants must have a formal job offer demonstrating specialized skills, hold a valid passport (6+ months), and possess a bachelor's degree with 1+ years of experience. A criminal background check is required.
The visa grants 2 years (renewable with employer confirmation). USD 50 government application fee applies; additional costs include fiscal stamps, DIMEX card, apostilles, translations, and legal fees. Processing takes 3-12 months. Spouses have restricted work rights; dependent children under 18 are qualifying. Permanent residency is available after 3 years of continuous status.
This visa is ideal for skilled professionals in technology, engineering, and specialized services seeking employer-sponsored residency and permanent residency pathway.
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
Costa RicaValid passport with at least six months validity
Formal job offer from a Costa Rican employer
Apostilled police clearance certificate from country of origin
Proof of registration with the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS)
Employment contract demonstrating the need for foreign expertise
Education
bachelor or higher
Experience
1+ years
Signed employment contract or job offer letter.
Certification of the legal status of the hiring company.
Proof of registration with the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) by the employer.
Valid passport and copies of all pages.
Apostilled police clearance certificate.
Apostilled birth certificate.
Proof of sufficient financial means.
Two passport-sized photographs.
Receipt of fingerprint registration from the Ministry of Public Security.
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