Costa Rica Citizenship by Birth (2025)
Learn about Costa Rica's citizenship by birth laws for 2025
What is Citizenship by Birth in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica follows the jus soli principle, meaning any child born on Costa Rican soil is automatically granted Costa Rican citizenship, regardless of their parents’ nationality, except for children of foreign diplomats.
Additionally, Costa Rica recognizes jus sanguinis, allowing individuals born abroad to obtain Costa Rican citizenship if at least one parent is a Costa Rican citizen, provided the birth is registered with a Costa Rican embassy or consulate.
Costa Rica Overview
Capital
San José
Total Area
51,100 km²
Population
5.2M
Language
Spanish
Currency
Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
UTC-6
Unlock Your Path to Costa Rica Citizenship in 2025
Considering Costa Rica as a new home or exploring citizenship options? Costa Rica’s inclusive citizenship by birth laws, rooted in jus soli and jus sanguinis principles, make it an attractive destination. Our Costa Rica Citizenship by Birth Guide 2025 provides everything you need to know as of May 16, 2025.
Requirements for Costa Rican Citizenship by Birth (2025)
To qualify for Costa Rican citizenship by birth, you must meet one of these criteria:
- Born within Costa Rica’s national territory, except for children of foreign diplomats.
- Born abroad to at least one Costa Rican citizen parent, with the birth registered at a Costa Rican embassy or consulate.
- Children of Costa Rican citizens serving abroad (e.g., diplomats) may qualify, provided registration is completed.
Costa Rica Citizenship by Birth Step by Step
If you're eligible for Costa Rican citizenship by birth, here's the step-by-step process to apply. Follow these guidelines to ensure your application is successful.
1. Gather Required Documents
Before you apply, make sure you have the following documents:
- Birth Certificate: A certified copy of your Costa Rican birth certificate issued by the Civil Registry.
- Parental Proof of Nationality: If applicable, proof that your parent(s) are Costa Rican citizens (e.g., Costa Rican birth certificate, passport, or cédula de identidad).
- Valid Identification: Passport or government-issued ID (e.g., cédula de identidad).
- Additional Supporting Documents: Any other documents required by the Civil Registry or Costa Rican embassy/consulate, such as marriage certificates for lineage verification.
2. Register the Birth
To confirm citizenship, you must register the birth with the appropriate Costa Rican authorities:
- In Costa Rica: Register the birth with the Civil Registry. This automatically confirms citizenship for those born in Costa Rica.
- Outside Costa Rica: Register the birth at the nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate. Submit proof of Costa Rican parentage.
3. Submit Your Application
Complete the application forms provided by the Civil Registry or embassy/consulate. Submit your documents for verification. Pay any required fees (see the Costs section below).
4. Wait for Processing
After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by the appropriate Costa Rican authorities. Processing times vary, typically taking a few weeks for in-country registrations and up to several months for consular registrations.
5. Receive Your Citizenship
Once approved, you will receive official recognition of your Costa Rican citizenship, typically in the form of a birth certificate (for those born in Costa Rica) or a consular registration document (for those born abroad).
6. Costs of Application
Be aware of the following potential costs:
- Application Fees: Birth registration fees vary by location; Civil Registry fees are approximately CRC 5,000–15,000, while consular fees may range from USD 20–50 as of 2025.
- Document Fees: Costs for obtaining certified copies, notarization, or translations of documents.
Confirm the exact fees at the time of application by contacting the Civil Registry or Costa Rican embassy/consulate.
7. Additional Tips
- Start Early: Ensure all documents are complete and certified. Incomplete applications can delay processing.
- Check for Updates: Citizenship laws can change. Verify current requirements with a Costa Rican embassy, consulate, or the Civil Registry before applying.
- Consult a Professional: If unsure, consult an immigration lawyer or expert in Costa Rica to navigate complex cases, especially for consular registrations.
Explore Costa Rica: Land of Pura Vida
Discover Costa Rica, a Central American paradise renowned for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant biodiversity. From the bustling capital of San José to the tranquil shores of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Rooted in a culture of peace and environmental stewardship, Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” spirit shines through its festivals, cuisine, and warm hospitality. Savor gallo pinto, dance to salsa, and explore Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest. Costa Rica’s natural beauty and welcoming culture enchant all visitors.
Map of Costa Rica Visa Free
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can parents obtain Costa Rican citizenship through their child?
No, parents of a child born in Costa Rica do not automatically receive citizenship. They may apply for residency and later qualify for naturalization after seven years of continuous residence, or two years for Central Americans, subject to additional requirements.
Does Costa Rica allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Costa Rica permits dual citizenship for citizens by birth. They can hold other nationalities without losing Costa Rican citizenship. Naturalized citizens may also hold dual citizenship, provided their original country allows it.
How do I register a child born abroad with Costa Rican ancestry?
Parents must register the child at a Costa Rican embassy or consulate, providing proof of Costa Rican parentage, such as a parent’s Costa Rican birth certificate, passport, or cédula de identidad (national ID).
What documents are needed for birth registration in Costa Rica?
A hospital birth certificate, parents’ identification (passport or Costa Rican cédula de identidad), and proof of Costa Rican nationality (if applicable) are required for registration at the Civil Registry.
Related Posts
Explore more resources on Visa Falcon to learn about Costa Rica citizenship, travel, and passport benefits:
- Check the Costa Rica Passport Power and Rank: Discover the global ranking and visa-free access of the Costa Rican passport.
Ready to Explore Costa Rica Citizenship in 2025?
Start your journey to Costa Rican nationality today!
Learn More