Foreign nationals in Costa Rica are currently facing longer-than-usual delays in the issuance of both new and renewed DIMEX cards.Processing times have continued to increase across several immigration categories.
At this time:
-Temporary residents may experience wait times of up to four months.
-Short-stay visa and temporary residence applicants are seeing delays of two months or more.
-Permanent residents and special category holders may face processing periods of three months or longer, counted from the date of the DIMEX appointment.
Under current regulations, foreign nationals remain in legal status as long as their DIMEX appointment has been scheduled or completed. However, the absence of a physical card may limit certain activities, including:
-International travel
-Driver’s license procedures
-Banking and financial transactions
There is no official timeline for when these delays will be resolved. In limited and exceptional circumstances—such as medical emergencies or essential business travel—it may be possible to request expedited processing, subject to Immigration’s discretion.
If you are affected by these delays, we strongly recommend seeking case-specific guidance to evaluate your options and ensure compliance.
Quatro Legal – Immigration & Corporate Advisory
Disclaimer: The information provided in this resource is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, laws and regulations are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please contact our office directly. Some images may be AI generated.
