Permanent / temporay resident

[PR]

I was reading another thread and became confused regarding residency status. Is there temporay and permanent residency status?

Is there a probation period on residency? That is, do you have to have residence status for a certain amount of time before you are granted permenent residency?

In the US, you have to be here two years and play by the rules and then your status is “adjusted” to permanent from temporay. Is it the same in CR.

And if that is so, after it has been adjusted can you work here?

[DavidCMurray]

Most folks qualify for either “pensionado” or “rentista” residency status. Neither permits you to work.

Either of these residency statuses is typically granted for two years and must be renewed. Once you have been a resident in good status for five years, you can apply for permanent residency which does not require periodic renewal. For pensionados, the requirement to convert U.S. dollars to colones each month need no longer be documented.

Once you have been a resident long enough to have actually been physically in Costa Rica for a total of seven years, you can apply for Costa Rican citizenship and take the test.

In order to work in Costa Rica, a foreigner must first obtain a work permit and is not allowed to compete for work with Costa Ricans.

[PR]

Thank you for he excellent ansewer. Can you work after you recive your permanent residency?

[DavidCMurray]

I THINK that the answer is still based upon the category of your residency. That is, pensionados and rentistas are not permitted to compete with Costa Ricans for jobs regardless of whether their residency is temporary or permanent. I’m pretty certain that that is the case.

Since it will take five years of conditional residency in either status to qualify for permanent residency, however, (a)the law may change, and (b)you’ll have ample opportunity to consult with a knowledgeable attorney for a definitive answer.

[2bncr]

I have heard many differnt ansewers. Like the above post, most info seems to fall under the “pretty certain” catagory. If looking for a difinative ansewer to “can you work with permanent residency.” I have not been able to find any residency attorneys or do not know where to start. Maybe someone on this site can help through a referral? Scott mentioned that he had permission to work, was that through being a permanent resident? – thanks

[Marcia]

What is the income amount requirement for Pensionado status. And, during the waiting period before it becomes permanent what happens to me if they raise the amount requirement? I plan to move to and live in CR permanently.
Thank you~

[Author]

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