If you are a digital nomad looking for a tropical destination, Central America is an excellent choice, specifically Costa Rica and Panama.
Both countries provide exciting opportunities to explore new cultures while making a living. They have introduced digital nomad visa programs to attract remote workers to their countries. Let's take a closer look at the visa requirements for Costa Rica and Panama.
Costa Rica
Estancia para Trabajador y Prestador Remoto de Servicios
The digital nomad visa in Costa Rica is called the Estancia para Trabajador y Prestador Remoto de Servicios. Here are the requirements for this visa program:
- US$100 Visa fee
- US$3,000 per month for personal income or US$4,000 per month if traveling with dependents
- Exemption from income tax
- Medical services policy that covers the applicant for the entire stay in Costa Rica
- Guarantee of coverage for medical expenses in case of illness in Costa Rica for at least US $50,000
- Criminal record check
- 1-year validity with a possibility to renew for one additional year
- May not work for a Costa Rican employer or contractor
- Request form, Receipt of payment of fees, Image of the passport page showing the person’s photograph and bio information, as well as the stamp showing entry into Costa Rica (if the person is already in Costa Rica), Depending on the person’s nationality, consular visa or restricted visa
- Bank statements and affidavit to prove income
Panama
Short Stay Visa under Executive Decree No. 198
The digital nomad visa in Panama is called the Short Stay Visa under Executive Decree No. 198. Here are the requirements for this visa program:
- US$250 Visa fee through the National Immigration Service or US$50 with a Visa Card
- US$36,000 Annually income requirement
- Provided the source of income is international
- No income tax
- Proof of medical insurance for stay duration
- Guaranteed no criminal record
- 9-month validity with the option to renew once for an additional 9 months
- May not provide services to any employer in Panama
- Three passport-sized photographs, certificate of good health, affidavit of non-acceptance of work offer in Panama, proof of income and subsistence
Final Thoughts
Both countries offer different but attractive features for digital nomads. Costa Rica's visa program has a low financial threshold but can be burdensome with its medical insurance requirement and a criminal record check.
At the same time, Panama has a higher income requirement, but it is more lenient when it comes to medical insurance and criminal records.
The choice, however, will depend on your preference, lifestyle, and work requirements. Nevertheless, both of these countries guarantee exciting cultural experiences and ample opportunities to enjoy beautiful beaches and landscapes.