Permanent residency in Costa Rica is related to a relationship with a Costa Rican (father, mother, son, minor or adult daughter with a disability, minor or adult siblings with a disability).

All residency applications must be made when the foreigner is legally in the country; that is, his or her visa has not expired.

If the person enters Costa Rica as a tourist and wishes to apply for a residency, he/she must additionally deposit the amount of US$200.00.