How Long Does It Take to Get Citizenship in Costa Rica?

Costa Rican citizenship is a multi-stage process that requires patience, but the steps are clear and achievable. The total timeline depends on your residency category and relationship to the country.

1. Standard Naturalization Timeline

For most foreigners, including Americans:

• 7 years of legal residency
  is required before you can apply for citizenship.

Residency years must be:

• Continuous

• Documented

• In good standing

2. Marriage to a Costa Rican

If married to a Costa Rican citizen:

• You can apply after 2 years of marriage + residency
  This is the fastest citizenship path.

3. Citizenship Through a Costa Rican Child

If you have a child born in Costa Rica, you can obtain permanent residency quickly, but citizenship still requires:

• A smaller residency period (varies by case)

4. Processing Times After Application

Once you submit your naturalization file:

• Approval can take 1–2 years
  depending on documentation and background checks.

5. Requirements Include

• Spanish language test

• Civics exam

• Clean criminal record

• Identity verification

• Proof of financial stability

• Consistent presence in Costa Rica

6. Total Timeline

For most people:

• 8–9 years total (7 years residency + 1–2 years processing)

If married:

• 3–4 years total

Bottom Line

It takes 7 years of residency plus processing time to gain Costa Rican citizenship — but the system is transparent and dual citizenship is allowed.

Use CitizenCR to streamline your application.

Download the CitizenCR app for citizenship timelines, residency tracking, and expert support.