Requirements For Citizenship In Costa Rica
Considering a big move to Costa Rica and needing citizenship? This tropical paradise is one of the most sought-after destinations for people looking to relocate. However, before you start packing your bags, it’s essential to understand the Costa Rica citizenship requirements for immigration. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to become a citizen of Costa Rica, including citizenship by marriage.
Costa Rica is an outstanding country with a secure government, a very strong economy and cultural heritages. It boasts a tropical climate, stunning beaches, and lush rainforests, it’s obvious why many people choose Costa Rica as their home. However, you must meet specific requirements before becoming a Costa Rica citizen.
Costa Rica is officially the happiest and most sustainable country in the world, according to the Happy Planet Index (HPI). And it’s no surprise to us! Spend just a little time in this tiny but majestic country, and you’re going home with a smile on your face.
Pura vida- the good life,-
-Is the country’s national motto. Costa Rica life is an easygoing, traditional lifestyle. It has a forward-thinking government which invested in education, healthcare, green energy and conservation. Locate it all in a paradise of biodiversity and recreation, and you have the happiest country in the world!
Costa Rica’s immigration system is based on residency. To become a citizen of Costa Rica, you must first establish residency in the country. There are two types of residency: temporary and permanent. You can apply for citizenship by marriage.
Temporary residency is given to people who plan to live in Costa Rica for a longer period. This type of residency is given for up to 2 years and can be renewed for another 2 years. After 3 years of temporary residence, you can apply for permanent residency.
Permanent residency is given to people who plan to live in Costa Rica permanently. To obtain permanent residence, you must meet specific requirements, including having lived in Costa Rica for at least 3 years.
Citizenship by Residence
7 years living in Costa Rica as a legal resident (5 years if you are a citizen of a Central American country, a citizen of certain Latin American countries, or a Spain citizen by birth)
You must prove you have lived in Costa Rica for the accumulated time through the record of immigration entries and exits
2 character witness declarations
Financial means of living proof, such as an income certification from a CPA
Birth certificate from home country, Apostilled or Legalized (in most cases, you can omit this requirement if it is in your immigration file)
A Criminal Record Check from the home country, Apostilled or Legalized, issued within the last 3 months.
Completion of citizenship test – Spanish and social studies (applicants aged 65 and over are exempt from this test).
Citizenship by Marriage
2 years living in Costa Rica, married to a Costa Rican citizen
Proof that you have lived in Costa Rica for the accumulated time through the record of immigration entries and exits
Birth certificate from home country, Apostilled or Legalize
A Criminal Record Check from the home country, Apostilled or Legalized, issued within the last 3 months
Once you have established your residency in Costa Rica, you can begin applying for citizenship.
Costa Rican Citizenship Requirements
Becoming a citizen, you must meet several requirements, including:
Legal residency: You must have been a legal resident of Costa Rica for at least 5 years.
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Criminal record: You must have a clean criminal record in Costa Rica and your home country.
Language proficiency: You must be able to speak, read, and write in Spanish.
Demonstrate knowledge of Costa Rican culture: You must pass an exam demonstrating knowledge of Costa Rican history, culture, and current events.
Financial stability: You must demonstrate enough financial resources to support yourself.
NOTE: 65 or older no need to write a test.
Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for Costa Rican citizenship. You must submit an application to the Directorate of Immigration in San Jose. The process can take a few months, and you may be required to have an interview with a immigration official.
Costa Rica allows dual citizenship, which means you can maintain your current citizenship while becoming a citizen of Costa Rica.
Read: Costa Rica Immigration And Residency Overview
Citizenship by marriage is also an option for those married to a Costa Rican citizen. If you are married to a Costa Rican citizen, you can apply for citizenship after 2 years of legal residency.
To apply for citizenship in Costa Rica, you must first get a certificate of good conduct from your country of origin. You will also need proof of your legal residency in Costa Rica and demonstrate your Spanish.
The naturalization process in Costa Rica has many steps, including submitting an application, taking a citizenship test, and attending a ceremony to receive your citizenship certificate.
The timeframe for getting citizenship in Costa Rica can vary depending on your circumstances. Typically, the naturalization process takes between 6 months and 2 years.
Benefits to becoming a citizen of Costa Rica
The ability to vote in local and national elections
Access to healthcare and social services
The ability to own property in your name
Eligibility for government scholarships and loans
The ability to work in specific industries that are reserved for Costa Rican citizens
The ability to travel more easily within Central and South America
Becoming a citizen of Costa Rica is a process that requires time, and dedication. For those willing to go through the process, the benefits of citizenship can be phenomenal. From the ability to vote in elections to access to healthcare and social services, Costa Rican citizenship can offer a high quality of life for individuals and families and enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle without regrets.
