Work

Executive and corporate residency

Immigration planning for managers, executives, representatives and qualifying technical staff.

PermissionWork
Length of stayTemporary residence within the approved assignment and category rules.
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

Foreign personnel required by a company established in Costa Rica, including recognized-company cases.

Key requirements

  • Company support explaining the role and need for the appointment.
  • Corporate registration and applicable DGME company-recognition records.
  • Employment or assignment documentation and relevant qualifications.
  • Personal identity, civil and criminal-record evidence required for the filing.

What this pathway offers

  • A category designed for qualifying corporate appointments.
  • Eligible family members may apply under the relevant rules.

Important limitations

  • Company registration alone does not approve every foreign hire.
  • Employment activities must match the permission granted.

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