Visit

Business visits and commercial stays

Plan meetings, commercial negotiations or a qualifying business stay with the correct permission.

PermissionVisit
Length of stayThe period is determined by the applicable category and approval resolution.
Working in Costa RicaWork is permitted only within the authorization issued for this category. Filing an application does not itself grant work permission.
Family considerationsFamily eligibility is assessed separately under the applicable category; relationship and dependency evidence may be required.

Who this pathway is for

Business visitors, traveling agents and commercial delegates whose activities fit the relevant non-resident or special category.

Key requirements

  • An invitation or evidence of the commercial purpose.
  • Details of represented companies, activities and dates.
  • Information about remuneration and its source.
  • Passport, required visa and financial/onward-travel evidence.

What this pathway offers

  • An assessment that distinguishes meetings from local employment.

Important limitations

  • A business visit is not an open work permit.
  • An estancia for commercial representatives requires the activity to meet its rules, including the applicable restrictions on local pay.

How the process generally works

  • Confirm the correct category and current checklist for your circumstances.
  • Prepare the evidence, legalizations and Spanish translations required for your case.
  • Submit through the applicable consulate or DGME procedure and respond to requests.
  • After approval, complete the documentation and insurance steps in the resolution.

Renewal & longer-term planning

Continued eligibility and current renewal requirements must be met before expiry.

Fees & budgeting

Government charges, document costs and any professional service fee are separate. A case-specific quote is required; no approval or processing time is guaranteed.

This is general information, not an individual eligibility determination. Exact requirements and permitted activities must be confirmed against your circumstances and the current official rules.

Sources & further reading

Reviewed September 29, 2026. Authorities may update requirements.

Let’s make a plan

Your Costa Rica chapter
starts with a conversation.

Tell us what you have in mind. We’ll help you understand the next questions to ask and the pathway to explore.

Talk to Chip