COSTA RICA: Relaxation of Post-Arrival Temporary Residence Application Process

October 17, 2017


Effective 9th October 2017, the immigration authorities (DGME) have reversed a recent change to the post-arrival temporary residence application process for employees of registered companies.

The requirement, imposed in August, that the main applicant and any dependents submit their fingerprints and complete consular registration before submitting their temporary residence application, has been cancelled.

However, it is recommended to complete consular registration and fingerprinting ahead of the residence application to avoid possible delays.

The authorities have also extended this relaxation to temporary residents in other immigration categories.

Our Advice

Companies hiring foreign nationals in Costa Rica should allow enough time for applicants to complete the fingerprinting and consular registration steps in advance of their temporary residence application.

For advice and information on immigration to Costa Rica in general please email us at [email protected].

This information was provided by our sister company, Peregrine Immigration Management.