Costa Rica: Special Permit for Cuban, Nicaraguan and Venezuelan Refugees Will Reopen

On March 1, 2023, for 12 months, the General Immigration Directorate will re-open applications for the special humanitarian permit for eligible Cuban, Nicaraguan and Venezuelan nationals to reside and work in Costa Rica for up to two years initially. Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for the permit:

• • Must have filed for refugee status between January 1, 2010 and September 30, 2022 and their application has either been denied or is pending;
  • Remained in Costa Rica since they filed their refugee status application;
  • Must not hold any approved visa or legal status in Costa Rica; and
  • Have a clean criminal record.

Applicants must register with the General Immigration Directorate within 90 days of receiving the resolution approving their permit. The permit may be renewed if the holder has not entered or exited Costa Rica illegally after receiving it. Interested applicants should contact their immigration professional for more information and case-specific advice.