Costa Rica’s DNV will exempt foreign workers from paying income tax or import tax on equipment necessary for their work. According to the General Law on Immigration and immigration law No 8764, digital nomads aren’t required to pay income tax. Additionally, the visa allows holders to have access to local banking and can use their country of origin driver’s license.
As for the requirements, anyone who works outside of as a freelancer doing remote work can apply for this visa.
Lawyer Gorge Montero wrote in his Op-ed for Tico Times “There is the question as to whether the status applies for individuals that provide remote services for themselves, for example, investors. In my opinion, it does apply because the law only requires you to prove your income, not your employer.” When Travel Noire asked our source if individuals need to have an LLC, the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners (DGME) of Costa Rica, confirmed “LLCs are not a requirement for applicants.” However, applicants must prove to have a minimum income of $3,000 USD per month if they’re traveling alone, or $4,000 if they will be traveling with their families.
Remote workers interested in the opportunity can learn more about Costa Rica’s immigration site. Electronic applications can be submitted through Tramite Ya!, the online portal accepting visa requests. Once submitted, Costa Rica will make a decision within 15 days.