For foreign nationals holding temporary residence in Costa Rica, the question of whether they may work is addressed directly in the General Migration and Immigration Law, Law No. 8764, Article 80. This article summarizes only what that specific provision states, without adding details about eligibility, work categories, processes, fees, or timelines that are not part of the verified text.
What Article 80 Establishes
Article 80 of Law 8764 states that temporary residents may carry out remunerated or profit-making activities — whether self-employed or as an employee — only when authorized by DGME. Under this provision, work activity by a temporary resident is tied directly to obtaining that authorization.
The Role of DGME’s Authorization
Under Article 80, the authorization to work is granted by DGME. The law does not describe the specific procedure or documentation involved in seeking that authorization in the provision summarized here, so this article does not speculate on those points.
Advisory Opinions and Other Criteria Considered
Article 80 specifies that DGME’s authorization considers advisory opinions from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, along with other criteria stated in the law. This article does not enumerate those other criteria.
Why This Provision Matters for Planning
Article 80 establishes that temporary residence status alone does not, by itself, authorize remunerated or profit-making work. Separate authorization from DGME is required. Anyone holding or considering temporary residence who wishes to work should confirm current requirements directly with DGME.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a temporary resident automatically work once residency is approved?
No. Under Article 80 of Law 8764, temporary residents may carry out remunerated or profit-making activities only when authorized by DGME.
Does the Ministry of Labor decide whether a temporary resident can work?
Article 80 states that DGME’s authorization considers advisory opinions from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The authorization itself is granted by DGME.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It reflects only the specific text of Article 80 of Law No. 8764 and does not address eligibility, types of work, application processes, fees, timelines, or outcomes. Confirm your own situation and current requirements directly with DGME or a licensed immigration attorney.
Article by Glenn Tellier (Founder of CRIE and Grupo Gap)
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