Digital Nomad Visa Comparison: Costa Rica vs. United Arab Emirates
A comparison of remote work visas for Costa Rica and United Arab Emirates.
Costa Rica and United Arab Emirates Digital Nomad Visa Requirements: A Comparison
If you're considering living the digital nomad life in Latin America or the Middle East, Costa Rica and United Arab Emirates (UAE) offer visa programs tailored for remote workers. Both countries offer a high quality of life, affordable living costs, and a range of attractions to explore while working. Let's take a closer look at the digital nomad visa requirements for these countries.
Costa Rica
Digital Nomad Visa Program
| Visa Name | Estancia para Trabajador y Prestador Remoto de Servicios |
|---|---|
| Cost of Visa | US$100 |
| Length of Stay | 1 year, may be renewed for 1 additional year |
| Income Requirement | US$3,000 per month for the applicant; US$4,000 per month if travelling with dependents |
Other Conditions or Requirements
- Exemption from income tax
- Medical services policy that covers the applicant and all members of the family group
- Guarantee of coverage for medical expenses
- Immigration will check whether the applicant has criminal records
- May not work for a Costa Rican employer or contractor
- Request form and 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
United Arab Emirates
Digital Nomad Visa Program
| Visa Name | Virtual Working Programme |
|---|---|
| Cost of Visa | US$611 (including application fees, processing fees, pre-application medical exam, and emirates ID) |
| Length of Stay | 1 year, renewable upon re-application |
| Income Requirement | US$5,000 per month salary |
Other Conditions or Requirements
- Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months
- Must have a health insurance with UAE coverage validity
- Proof of employment from current employer with a one-year contract validity
- Must have a minimum salary of US$5,000 per month along with last month's pay slip and 3 preceding months bank statement
- Business owners must provide proof of ownership of their business, and should have an average monthly income of US$5,000 along with 3 preceding months' bank statement
- Virtual Program document holders and their dependents cannot perform work for a local employer in Dubai or provide any services to any person or entity carrying out business in Dubai
Final Thoughts
Both Costa Rica and UAE offer enticing visa programs for digital nomads. Costa Rica's Estancia para Trabajador y Prestador Remoto de Servicios presents a pathway to experience a vibrant Latin American culture, while UAE's Virtual Working Programme offers an opportunity to explore the dynamic, cosmopolitan culture of the Middle East. When deciding on the best fit, it all depends on individual preferences, including work style, interests, and desired cultural experiences.