Digital Nomad Visa Comparison: Costa Rica vs. Romania
A comparison of remote work visas for Costa Rica and Romania.
Costa Rica and Romania Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
If you're a digital nomad considering a move to Europe or Central America, you may want to look into the digital nomad visa requirements of Costa Rica and Romania. Both countries offer unique advantages and requirements, so read on to decide which is best for you.
About Costa Rica
If you're looking for beautiful natural landscapes, Costa Rica may be the place for you. With idyllic beaches, breathtaking volcanoes, and lush rainforests, Costa Rica is a paradise for environmentalists and nature lovers. The country also offers a stable economy and friendly locals, making it an excellent place for digital nomads seeking to work and live peacefully.
Estancia para Trabajador y Prestador Remoto de Servicios
This is how Costa Rica's digital nomad visa is officially called. Let's take a closer look at its requirements:
| Cost of Visa | US$100 |
|---|---|
| Length of Stay | 1 year, may be renewed for 1 additional year |
| Income Requirement | US$3,000 per month; If traveling with dependents: US$4,000 per month |
| Taxes | Exemption from income tax |
| Medical Insurance | A medical services policy that covers the applicant for the entire duration of his/her stay in the country is required. Likewise, all members of the family group must be covered, if the applicant chooses to request their inclusion as beneficiaries. The guarantee of coverage for medical expenses in cases of illness in Costa Rica for at least US $50,000.00 (fifty thousand dollars of the United States of America) whose term of validity covers the period of stay in the country. |
| Criminal Record Check | Immigration will check whether this person has criminal records through the databases it has access to |
| Restrictions | May not work for a Costa Rican employer or contractor |
| Application Requirements | Request form, Receipt of payment of fees, Image of the passport page showing the person’s photograph and bio information, and 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. |
About Romania
For those who prefer European charm, Romania is a country worth considering. With its picturesque castles, Gothic architecture, and stunning landscapes, Romania is a cultural hot spot. And as a digital nomad, you will appreciate the country's growing tech scene, low living costs, and stable economy.
Digital Nomad Visa Program
Romania offers a Digital Nomad Visa program that allows remote workers to work and live in the country for a certain period. Here are its requirements:
| Cost of Visa | EUR 120 |
|---|---|
| Length of Stay | 6 months, can be extended for another 6 months |
| Income Requirement | Proof of financial means of at least 3 times the average gross salary in Romania – i.e. RON 6.095 for each of every past 6 months previous to the date of visa application, as well as for the entire visa period |
| Taxes | Digital nomads who reside in an EU country for up to 183 days in any 365 days period are only required to pay taxes in their home country. The ones exceeding this number have the obligation to file for tax residency and pay taxes to the host state |
| Medical Insurance | Indication of health care coverage |
| Criminal Record Check | The applicant must provide evidence of a clear criminal record |
| Restrictions | The applicant should have an employment contract of the company (can be applicant's own company) which must be registered outside Romania. The visa allows foreign nationals to work and live in Romania without requiring work sponsorship from a local employer. |
| Application Requirements | Must prove that the applicant has been employed / is an owner of a company registered outside Romania for at least three years before applying. Proof of income for the last six months before applying for the visa and for the entire visa validity. Must hold Identification documents, employment contract, and explain the nature of their stay in Romania. Must provide an evidence of remote employment, accommodation, health insurance and a clear criminal record. Must provide evidence of accommodation in Romania. |
Conclusion
Choosing between Costa Rica and Romania as a digital nomad destination depends largely on personal preferences, work style, lifestyle, and desired cultural experience. Costa Rica offers a higher level of natural beauty and a simple taxation system. While Romania is more European in flavor and has a thriving tech scene. Both countries offer great opportunities and experiences for digital nomads looking for work while exploring new cultures and landscapes.