Buy Property & Apply for Residency from $150K

Who Is It For and What Are the Requirements?

Published

4 days ago

Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast

For many international buyers, the ability to apply for legal residency in Costa Rica is a valuable advantage that can influence their decision to invest in this beautiful country.

Costa Rica offers one of the most attractive real estate environments in the tropics. Foreigners can legally own 100% of titled property, just like Costa Rican citizens, as long as the property is located in a free zone (outside restricted areas). This sets Costa Rica apart from many other countries, particularly in Asia, where ownership rights are limited or less secure.

Residency Through Investment: Is It Right for You?

Costa Rica’s Investor Residency Program allows foreigners to apply for residency if they invest at least $150,000 USD in real estate (buy land or houses for sale in Costa Rica). But do you need it? That depends on your lifestyle and goals.

Residency may not be necessary if:

You plan to stay in Costa Rica only a few months a year (for example, U.S. citizens can stay up to 180 days without a visa).
You’re buying or building a rental property to be managed remotely by a professional property manager.

Residency is worth considering if:

You plan to live in Costa Rica full-time or at least 4–6 months per year.
You want to avoid the inconvenience of visa runs.
You’re moving with your family and want long-term legal stability and access to local benefits.

Legal Support Is Key

To apply for residency after purchasing property, you’ll need experienced legal professionals to handle the paperwork. Our partners at Native Costa Rica, a respected law firm, advise that you must spend at least 4 months per year in the country to maintain your investor residency. They also note that each application is evaluated individually—residency can be denied, for example, in cases involving a criminal record.

Invest Smart and Stay Long-Term

If your vision includes living or retiring in Costa Rica, the Investor Residency Program can offer peace of mind, flexibility, and access to the country’s full benefits. If not, there are still many ways to enjoy property ownership and strong returns on investment here.

At Punta Uva Realty, we help you invest wisely, securely, and with the guidance you need—from property search to legal support.

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