Qualifying Routes · Law 9996
Compare all four qualifying investment categories under Costa Rica's golden visa law — minimum thresholds, eligible assets, and critical eligibility rules.
The most common pitfall in Costa Rica golden visa applications is an investment held in a structure that doesn't satisfy the personal title requirement. The qualifying asset must be registered in your personal name — or in a Costa Rican company where you hold at least 50% of the shares directly. Investments through nominee structures, third-party trusts, or shell companies where your ownership is indirect will be disqualified at the DGME review stage. GVCR performs title verification as a standard step on every mandate.
Minimum investment
The most popular qualifying route. Purchase residential or commercial real estate in Costa Rica with a minimum registered value of USD $150,000. Title must be held in your personal name — or in a Costa Rican corporation in which you are the primary shareholder (≥50%).
Minimum investment
Invest USD $150,000 or more in shares of a Costa Rican corporation (Sociedad Anónima or Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada). Qualifying businesses span tourism, agribusiness, technology, manufacturing, and services.
Minimum investment
The lowest investment threshold of any qualifying route. Purchase certified forestry bonds or invest in reforestation projects registered under FONAFIFO or equivalent national authority. A growing sector backed by international carbon-credit demand.
Minimum investment
Government-designated projects in sectors declared of national interest — renewable energy, sustainable tourism infrastructure, affordable housing, and strategic ports or logistics. Thresholds and terms are project-specific and require CINDE or PROCOMER endorsement.
Side by Side
| Route | Min. Investment | Liquidity | Passive Income | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Estate | $150,000 | High | Rental yield | Low |
| Business Shares | $150,000 | Low | Dividends | Medium |
| Forestry / Carbon | $100,000 | Low | Carbon credits | Low |
| National Interest | Variable | Very Low | Project-dependent | High |
*Liquidity refers to the ease of exiting the investment. All qualifying investments must be maintained for the duration of the initial residency term.
Begin Your Journey
Whether you're ready to apply or still in the research phase, our senior advisors are available for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We'll assess your eligibility, answer your questions, and outline the most efficient path to your Costa Rican residency.
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