Why Queer Digital Nomads Should Consider Living in Costa Rica Right Now

If you’re a queer digital nomad, you have several reasons why should work remotely in Costa Rica. For one, President Rodrigo Chaves Robles just approved revised regulations for the Digital Nomads Law. What does that mean? It means foreign remote workers (aka digital nomads) and their families, once allowed to only stay for a year, can extend their stay to a total of two years.  

Digital nomads can offer their services remotely, settle in the country with a visa for one year, and receive benefits such as not paying income tax or import tax on equipment necessary for their labor. Applicants must have a minimum income of $3,000 per month if they travel alone, or $4,000 if they are traveling with their families. As proof of income, you must have original bank statements along with a signed affidavit as well as proof of health insurance for the duration of your stay. 

You must make a payment for the granting of your Costa Rica DNV. This payment is required because you are a remote worker and service provider. Although the exact amount has not yet been made public, it would be determined through regulations issued by the Directorate. 

The new law will create a new sub-migratory category called the “fifth instance,” in which there will be a maximum of 15 days to resolve application requests, which can be made through a digital platform. 

In addition to the Gallup World Index and the Happy Planet Index recognizing it as one of the happiest countries, the Central American country is also LGBTQ+ friendly. Human Rights Watch described the country as “committed to [equal] rights” and an “inspiration for other countries [in Central America]. 

Why Costa Rica for Queer Digital Nomads?

In Costa Rica, same-sex sexual relations have been legal since 1971. Transgender people can change their legal gender on their legal documents, such as driver’s licenses, passports, and ID cards. It’s illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. Same-sex couples are allowed to marry and adopt children. Sold! We’re planning our stay already! 

And LGBTQ+ travelers will also appreciate Costa Rica’s natural beauty and a variety of things to do and see for every type of traveler: family, adventure, wellness, luxury, and more! And while many tropical countries have changing weather patterns, Costa Rica enjoys 12 different tropical microclimates and pleasant weather throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The country’s unique topography allows for a wide array of thrilling experiences, like ziplining and waterfall rappelling, or more easy-going experiences, such as bird-watching and forest bathing. Costa Rica’s landscapes and accommodation options allow digital nomads the ability to live the Pura Vida lifestyle in the country’s regions: San José, The Central Valley, Guanacaste, Puntarenas & the Nicoya Peninsula, the Northern Zone, Central Pacific Coast, the Southern Zone, and the Caribbean Coast.

Click here to apply for your Digital Nomad Visa for Costa Rica. Check out the Visit Costa Rica website to plan your trip.