Naturalization Process in Costa Rica for Residents: Complete Guide
Definition of the Process
The naturalization process allows foreign nationals to obtain Costa Rican citizenship. This process is governed by Law No. 1155 and can be completed after residing in the country for five years (for Central American, Ibero-American, and Spanish citizens by birth) or seven years for other nationalities.
Responsible Entity
The Options and Naturalizations Section of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) manages this process. Its main offices are located in San José, on the west side of the National Park, with business hours from Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Main Requirements
Initial Application: Submit a written request authenticated by a lawyer. This can be submitted by the applicant, an authorized third party, or a special proxy.
Notification Method: Provide an email address or, if unavailable, a precise physical address.
Identification Document: Submit a certified copy of a valid document issued by the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs. Passports are not accepted.
Birth Certificate: Issued by the competent authority in the country of origin, duly legalized or apostilled, and translated into Spanish if written in another language.
Sworn Testimony from Witnesses: Witnesses must certify the period of residence, good conduct, and means of livelihood.
Proof of Livelihood: Provide proof such as salary certificates, employer records, or certification from a public accountant.
Knowledge of Costa Rica: Pass exams on the Spanish language and national history unless exempt.
Criminal Record Certificate: Certificate from the country of origin or last place of residence, legalized and translated into Spanish if necessary.
Photograph: A passport-sized photo.
Sworn Declaration on Infractions: Certify the absence of repeated minor infractions.
Publication of Edict: Publish a notice in the Official Gazette, La Gaceta.
Additional Considerations
This service is free and has a resolution timeframe of 285 working days.
It is crucial to verify that documents from abroad meet legalization or apostille requirements.
Minors have different requirements and are not obligated to provide certain documents, such as criminal records or proof of livelihood.
Contact and Inquiries
If you need assistance with this process, feel free to contact us. We are available to help guide you through every step. You can reach us via email at jose@lawyerincostarica.net or through WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal at +50664650632.