Costa Rica: Immigration Filing Options Expanded Through Postal Service Pilot Program

Effective March 16, 2026, the General Immigration Directorate (DGME) will allow foreign nationals to submit select immigration applications at designated Costa Rican post office (Correos de Costa Rica) branches, specifically the Central Post Office in San Jose and the Santa Ana branches, under a new pilot program.  

In the initial phase, the service will be available for the following processes: permanent residence; permanent residence after three years as a temporary resident; temporary residence based on marriage to a Costa Rican national; special categories for students and domestic workers; and cancellation and refund of deposits. Additional categories may be incorporated as the program evolves.  

Applications may be submitted without a prior appointment. Applicants must present complete documentation and will receive a case file number and official receipt at the time of submission. An additional service fee ranging from CRC 4,650 to CRC 11,340 (approximately USD 10 to 25) will apply for use of this postal filing channel, in addition to standard government filing fees. All general and category-specific eligibility requirements remain in place, and applicants must have lawful immigration status in Costa Rica at the time of filing. 

While adjudication will continue to be handled exclusively by the DGME and processing times are not expected to change at this time, the new filing channel enhances accessibility and logistical flexibility, particularly for individuals residing far from immigration offices, by providing an alternative venue to initiate eligible applications. This measure follows the recent agreement between DGME and the Bank of Costa Rica to expand the delivery of immigration services related to DIMEX cards, reflecting broader efforts by the authorities to streamline and modernize immigration processes in Costa Rica.  

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.