Important Changes to Validity Periods and Requirements for Companies Registered with the General Directorate of Immigration (DGME).

“The General Directorate of Immigration and Foreign Affairs (DGME), through Executive Decree 44793-G-COMEX, effective as of July 2025, and as a modification of Executive Decree 36576-G-COMEX, has announced a series of key updates that affect companies registered under categories B, C, D, E, and F of the regime.

SPECIFIC CHANGES:

CATEGORY B

Companies registered with the (DGME) under Category B will receive an automatic extension of their validity for 4 years, counted from the date of the last resolution issued by Immigration.

New entities are included:

  • Companies, educational institutions, and public or private learning centers that offer technical or higher specialized education.
  • This inclusion applies as long as the entry of teachers or students is related to priority areas defined by COMEX, where knowledge is essential to closing skills gaps and strengthening the attraction of foreign direct investment.

CATEGORY C

Companies registered with the DGME under Category C (operating in the tourism sector) will receive an automatic extension of their validity for 4 years, counted from the date of the last resolution issued by Immigration.

CATEGORY D

Companies registered with the DGME under Category D (operating in the financial sector) will receive an automatic extension of their validity for 4 years, counted from the date of the last resolution issued by Immigration.

CATEGORY E

Companies registered with the DGME under Category E (operating in the telecommunications sector) will receive an automatic extension of their validity for 4 years, counted from the date of the last resolution issued by Immigration.

CATEGORY F

Companies registered with the DGME under Category F (multinational corporations) will receive an automatic extension of their validity for 4 years, counted from the date of the last resolution issued by Immigration.

Requirements for foreign companies are simplified:

  • It is no longer necessary to submit operating permits.
  • Instead, a declaration from the legal representative of the parent company may be submitted, certifying the operation of at least three active subsidiaries in different countries, specifying the name, country, and address of each one.

EXCEPTION – CATEGORY G:

Companies under Category G do not qualify for the automatic four-year extension. Their validity period will remain subject to the minimum term granted under their administrative contract with the Costa Rican government.

How can BLP assist?

Our Global Mobility & Relocation team is ready to support both national and multinational companies in interpreting the new regulation, ensuring compliance, and preparing the necessary documentation to meet the updated criteria.

To receive personalized guidance, contact your trusted BLP lawyer or write to: [email protected]