Moving to Spain from Costa Rica: Complete 2026 Guide
As an Ibero-American country, Costa Ricans enjoy a fast-track path to Spanish citizenship in just 2 years instead of the standard 10. With a tax treaty in place since 2011 and shared language, moving to Spain has never been more accessible.
Key Facts for Costa Ricans
- Visa: Required (Schengen visa needed)
- Citizenship: 2 years (Ibero-American)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed
- Tax Treaty: Active since 2011
Why Costa Ricans Choose Spain
Spain and Costa Rica share deep historical and cultural connections dating back centuries. Spanish is the official language in both countries, making the transition remarkably smooth for Costa Ricans seeking new opportunities in Europe. The lack of a language barrier means you can integrate into Spanish society, find employment, and navigate bureaucracy without the challenges faced by non-Spanish speakers.
The Costa Rican community in Spain, while smaller than other Latin American groups, is well-established in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Costa Ricans are drawn to Spain for its quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and strategic location that provides easy access to all of Europe. Many professionals, students, and entrepreneurs have made the move, creating a supportive network for newcomers.
The 2-year citizenship path represents one of the most significant advantages for Costa Ricans. While citizens from most countries must wait 10 years for naturalization, the Ibero-American treaty allows Costa Ricans to apply after just 24 months of legal residence. Combined with the ability to maintain dual citizenship, this makes Spain an ideal destination for those seeking European residency while preserving their Costa Rican identity.
Visa Options
Each visa type has specific requirements and benefits. The Digital Nomad visa has become increasingly popular among Costa Rican professionals who work remotely for international companies. The Non-Lucrative visa suits retirees or those with investment income who want to enjoy Spanish life without working locally. For those with job offers from Spanish companies, the work visa provides a straightforward path to residency.
Citizenship in 2 Years
One of the greatest benefits for Costa Ricans moving to Spain is the accelerated path to citizenship. Thanks to the historical and cultural ties between Ibero-American nations, Costa Rica is among the countries whose citizens can apply for Spanish nationality after just 2 years of legal residence, compared to the standard 10-year requirement for most other nationalities.
To qualify for citizenship, you must demonstrate continuous legal residence in Spain for at least 2 years, show good civic conduct with no criminal record, and prove sufficient integration into Spanish society. As a Spanish speaker, you are exempt from the DELE A2 language exam that other nationalities must pass. You will still need to complete the CCSE exam, which tests basic knowledge of Spanish culture, society, and government.
Costa Rica permits dual citizenship, and Spain allows Costa Ricans to maintain their original nationality when acquiring Spanish citizenship. This means you can hold both passports simultaneously, enjoying the benefits of EU citizenship while retaining all your rights as a Costa Rican citizen.
Spanish Consulates in Costa Rica
San Jose. Embassy (Main)
Calle 32 entre el Paseo Colon y la Avenida Segunda
(50 metros sur de McDonalds de Paseo Colon)
San Jose, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2222 1933 / 2222 5745
Emergency: +506 6050 9853 (Spanish citizens only)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00-15:30
Spain maintains an embassy in San Jose and a consulate in the province of Guanacaste. All visa applications must be submitted in person at the embassy or appropriate consulate. Appointments are required and can be scheduled through the official Spanish government booking system. Processing times vary depending on the visa type, so plan to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Required Documents
Prepare before your visa appointment:
- Passport valid for at least 1 year
- Criminal record from the Registro Judicial de Costa Rica, apostilled
- Medical certificate from authorized physician
- Proof of income (bank statements, contracts)
- Health insurance from Spanish-authorized provider
- Application form completed and signed
- Photos passport size, white background
- Visa fee
All documents must be recent (typically issued within 3 months), translated into Spanish by an official translator if not already in Spanish, and apostilled according to the Hague Convention. Costa Rican documents can be apostilled through the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores. Some visa types require additional documentation such as proof of accommodation in Spain, employment contracts, or proof of enrollment in educational institutions.
Tax Considerations
Costa Rica-Spain Tax Treaty
A double taxation agreement between Costa Rica and Spain has been in force since January 2011. The treaty was signed on February 3, 2004, and provides important protections for individuals and businesses operating between both countries.
Key provisions include reduced withholding taxes on dividends (5-10% depending on shareholding), interest income caps (5-10% of gross amount), and clear rules for taxation of real estate income, pensions, and capital gains. The treaty follows the OECD model and includes provisions for exchange of information between tax authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Costa Ricans need a visa to enter Spain?
Yes, Costa Rican passport holders need a Schengen visa to enter Spain for any purpose. For stays longer than 90 days or for purposes such as work, study, or residency, you will need the appropriate long-term visa applied for at the Spanish Embassy in San Jose before traveling.
Do I need to take a Spanish language exam for citizenship?
No. Because Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, you are exempt from the DELE A2 language requirement that applies to citizens of non-Spanish-speaking countries. You will only need to pass the CCSE exam covering Spanish culture and society.
Can I keep my Costa Rican citizenship when I become Spanish?
Yes. Both Costa Rica and Spain allow dual citizenship. When you acquire Spanish nationality, you can maintain your Costa Rican passport and all associated rights. This is a significant advantage as you gain EU citizenship while preserving your original nationality.
How long does the visa process take?
Processing times vary by visa type. Tourist and short-stay visas typically take 15-30 days. Long-term visas such as work permits, student visas, or non-lucrative visas can take 1-3 months. We recommend applying at least 3 months before your intended move date.
We Handle Everything
Navigating Spanish immigration can be complex, but you do not have to do it alone. At Legal Fournier, we specialize in helping Costa Ricans relocate to Spain smoothly and efficiently. From initial visa applications to NIE registration, residency renewals, and citizenship applications, our team of immigration lawyers handles every step of the process. We understand the unique advantages available to Costa Ricans and ensure you benefit from every pathway open to you.
This guide provides general information. Immigration and tax regulations change regularly. For planning tailored to your situation, contact our team.