For many expats, falling in love with a Costa Rican (or a legal resident of Costa Rica) can lead to not only a lifelong partnership but also an opportunity to obtain residency in this beautiful country. Costa Rica offers a straightforward pathway to residency for foreign nationals married to Costa Rican citizens or legal residents.
In this guide, Residency in Costa Rica cover the basics of what you need to know about obtaining Costa Rica residency by marriage, including requirements, the application process, benefits, and important considerations.
Eligibility for Residency by Marriage in Costa Rica
To qualify for residency through marriage, you must meet the following conditions:
- Legally Married to a Costa Rican Citizen or Resident
- Your spouse must be a Costa Rican citizen or a legal resident (permanent or temporary).
- Same-sex marriages are legally recognized in Costa Rica, so LGBTQ+ couples have the same rights.
- Valid Marriage Certificate
- If married outside Costa Rica, the marriage must be registered in the Civil Registry of Costa Rica (Registro Civil).
- Foreign marriage certificates must be apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish by an official translator.
- Proof of Genuine Relationship
- Immigration authorities may request evidence that the marriage is legitimate (e.g., joint bank accounts, photos, shared leases, or affidavits from friends/family).
Required Documents for Residency by Marriage
When applying, the spouse apllying for residency will need the following documents:
✅ Passport (valid for at least six months)
✅ Birth Certificate (apostilled/legalized and translated)
✅ Police Clearance Certificate (from your home country and any country you’ve lived in for the past three years)
✅ Marriage Certificate (registered in Costa Rica’s Civil Registry)
✅ Costa Rican Spouse’s ID and proof of income (if applicable)
✅ Application Form
✅ Two Passport-Sized Photos
✅ Payment of Fees (varies by case)
Application Process for Residency by Marriage
- Register Your Marriage in Costa Rica (if married abroad)
- Submit your apostilled marriage certificate to the Civil Registry for validation.
- Gather and Prepare Documents
- Ensure all foreign documents are apostilled and translated into Spanish.
- Submit Your Application to Immigration (DGME)
- File your residency application at the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME) in San José or through a legal representative like Residency in Costa Rica.
- Wait for Approval
- Processing times vary but typically take 6–12 months.
- Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary residency card (DIMEX) valid for 1–2 years.
- Renew and Apply for Permanent Residency
- After three years of temporary residency, you can apply for permanent residency.
Benefits of Costa Rica Residency by Marriage
✔ No Income Requirement (unlike investor or pensioner residency)
✔ Fast-Track to Permanent Residency (after 3 years)
✔ Work Permit Eligibility (can apply for a work permit if needed)
✔ Access to Public Healthcare (CCSS/CAJA)
✔ Path to applying for Costa Rican Citizenship (other requirements apply)
Important Considerations
🔹 Divorce or Separation: If the marriage ends before obtaining permanent residency, your residency status may be revoked.
🔹 Dual Residency: You can maintain residency in Costa Rica while keeping citizenship and residency in your home country.
🔹 Tax Implications: Please consult a qualified tax consultant regarding your specific circumstances.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining Costa Rica residency by marriage is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to become a legal resident of Costa Rica. With the right documentation and proper legal guidance, you, too, can enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle alongside your spouse!
Interested in applying? Contact our residency consultants at ResidencyInCostaRica.com for personalized support!
