Costa Rica: Appointment Delays Impacting Initial Accredited-Company Residence Applications
May 14, 2025
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At a Glance
- Foreign nationals in Costa Rica are experiencing significant delays in securing appointments with the General Immigration Directorate (DGME) to submit initial residence applications under the accredited company category.
- Appointment wait times have increased to over two and a half months, compared to the usual one to two weeks.
- As a result, foreign nationals and their employers should anticipate delays in work start dates over the coming months, as all initial accredited-company residence applications require a pre-scheduled appointment.
- While the DGME has not provided an official explanation, the delays may be due to recent online system disruptions and staffing shortages.
The situation
Foreign nationals in Costa Rica are experiencing significant delays in securing appointments with the General Immigration Directorate (DGME) to submit initial residence applications under the accredited company category.
Impact
Foreign nationals applying for initial temporary residence under the accredited company category and their employers should account for delays in work start dates, as these applications require a pre-scheduled appointment.
Depending on individual circumstances, there may be alternative immigration routes available; however, these options could involve additional steps or costs, which may impact planning and budgeting.
Background
The DGME has not issued an official explanation, but the delays likely stem from prolonged disruptions to its online systems following cybersecurity breaches in December 2024. The temporary shutdown of its website and the TramiteYa! platform limited access to key services, including appointment booking and online visa applications. Although alternative appointment mechanisms were later introduced and the website was restored in April 2025, accumulated backlogs and the continued suspension of TramiteYa! along with possible staffing shortages, continue to contribute to delays.
Looking ahead
It is not clear when these delays will be resolved. Employers and foreign nationals are encouraged to consult with their immigration advisors to assess potential options and determine the most appropriate course of action based on their individual circumstances.
Will report on relevant updates as they occur.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
