Can an American Get Citizenship in Costa Rica?

Yes — Americans can absolutely get Costa Rican citizenship. Costa Rica has one of the clearer naturalization systems in Latin America, and while it requires patience, the process is straightforward once you establish legal residence.

1. You Must First Become a Legal Resident

Citizenship can only be obtained after holding residency, not as a direct application.

Americans usually enter under one of the following:

• Pensionado (Retiree) Residency

• Rentista (Income-based residency)

• Inversionista (Investment residency)

• Work-Based Residency

• Spousal Residency

• Permanent residency (through family or after 3+ years of temporary residency)

Once you maintain residency long enough, you can move toward citizenship.

2. Time Requirement

Americans must live in Costa Rica for:

• 7 years of legal residency before qualifying for naturalization.

Time must be continuous and documented.

3. Other Requirements

To secure citizenship, you’ll need:

• Clean criminal record

• Proof of stable income

• Integration into Costa Rica (community ties)

• Passing a basic Spanish and civics test

• Registration in the Costa Rican civil registry

4. Dual Citizenship

Costa Rica allows dual citizenship.

The USA also allows dual nationality — meaning Americans can become Costa Rican without renouncing their U.S. passport.

5. Why Americans Choose Costa Rica

• Mild climate

• Strong expat community

• Stable democracy

• Excellent healthcare

• Lower cost of living

• Safe for long-term retirement

Bottom Line

Yes — Americans can become Costa Rican citizens, but only after becoming residents and maintaining 7 years of legal stay.

Use CitizenCR to streamline your application.

Download the CitizenCR app for residency steps, checklists, and expert guidance.