Does Buying Property in Costa Rica Give You Residency?

Not automatically — buying property can help you qualify for residency, but it doesn’t automatically grant it. You must apply under Costa Rica’s Inversionista (Investor) Residency category.

1. How Property Helps With Residency

To qualify for Inversionista residency, you must:

• Invest a minimum of $150,000 USD

• Investment must be in real estate, a business, or approved tourism projects

So yes — buying property above this threshold makes you eligible.

2. What Residency You Receive

Inversionista residency gives you:

• 2 years of temporary residency, renewable

• Ability to become permanent resident after 3 years

• Ability to include spouse & children

3. What It Does NOT Give You

• Automatic citizenship

• Automatic permanent residency

• Permission to work as an employee (you can manage your own investment/company)

4. Requirements

You must also show:

• Proof of real estate ownership

• Police clearance

• Financial documentation

• Consistent presence in Costa Rica

5. Is It Worth It?

For investors and retirees wanting to anchor themselves in Costa Rica, buying property is a strong pathway to residency.

Bottom Line

Buying property can give you residency — only if it meets the $150,000 threshold and you apply under the investment category.

Use CitizenCR to streamline your application.

Download the CitizenCR app for investment residency tools and expert guidance.