Date of publication:
01/08/2026
Costa Rica
Do domestic laws and policies provide forcibly displaced and stateless persons the right to freely choose their place of residence?
Assessment by population
Analysis
Article 19 of the Constitution provides that foreigners are entitled to the same individual and social rights as Costa Ricans, except for limitations established by law. This would also apply to refugees and asylum seekers. Article 22 of the Constitution stipulates that Costa Rican can decide to reside anywhere in the country.
Domestic laws and policies establish that foreigners, who have received the authorization to remain in the country must be fully integrated into Costa Rican society. This also apply refugees and asylum seekers. Although there is no specific provision regarding the freedom to determine their place of residence, full integration implies the choice of place of residence.