is visa required to visit costa rica

Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Costa rica - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to  crime .

Country Summary:  While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica. The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources in areas frequented by tourists.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Costa Rica.

If you decide to travel to Costa Rica:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook,   Twitter, and Instagram .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Costa Rica.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Length of stay.

1 page per entry stamp.

Not required for stays less than 180 days, but return ticket required.

Yellow fever, if arriving from certain countries in South America or Africa .

10,000 USD.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy san josé.

Calle 98, Via 104 Pavas San José, Costa Rica Telephone: + (506) 2519-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (506) 2220-3127 Fax: + (506) 2220-2455 Email:   [email protected] Routine American Citizens Services appointments available online .

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

See the Embassy of Costa Rica’s  website  for the most current visa information.

Requirements for Entry:

• Passport  valid for duration of stay. Immigration may deny entry if passport is damaged.
• Return ticket  or proof of onward travel to another country.
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination  if you are arriving from  certain countries  in South America or Africa.
• Proof of funds  for at least $100 USD per month of proposed stay.

Tourist stays up to 180 Days:  Authorities may permit stays up to 180 days without a visa but are not required to do so. Be sure to leave by your required date of departure. Immigration authorities may levy a fine on foreigners who overstay their visas. Even a short overstay may result in significant delays, deportation, and/or denial of entry to Costa Rica in the future.

Exit tax:   Check with your airline to see if the $29 USD exit tax was included in the cost of your ticket. For more information, visit the  Costa Rican Immigration Agency website.

Entry and Exit for Minor Children:  All children born in Costa Rica acquire Costa Rican citizenship at birth and must have an exit permit issued by  immigration authorities  in order to depart the country. Non-Costa Rican minor children who are ordinarily resident in Costa Rica may also be subject to this requirement. This is strictly enforced.

Though not required, parents traveling with minor children may consider carrying notarized consent for travel from the non-present parent. Parents of minors with Costa Rican citizenship should consult with  Costa Rican immigration authorities  prior to travel to Costa Rica.

Indebtedness:  If you owe money in Costa Rica, authorities may prevent you from leaving. This includes unsettled injury claims from vehicular accidents and unpaid medical bills. U.S. citizens owing child support in Costa Rica may be required to pay 13 months of support in advance before being allowed to leave Costa Rica.

Documentation Requirements:  Carry copies of identification and immigration status at all times. During routine checks for illegal immigrants, authorities may ask to see the original passport and papers.

Local authorities have the right to detain United States citizens until their identity and immigration status have been verified.

HIV/AIDS restrictions:  The United States Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Costa Rica.

Find information on  dual nationality,   prevention of international child abduction , and  customs information  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime: In areas frequented by tourists, including national parks, theft and pickpocketing are the most common crimes targeting United States citizen travelers. More violent crimes, including sexual assault and murders, have occurred. Armed assailants usually target victims for their smartphones, wallets, or purses. If confronted by someone with a weapon, it is best not to resist.

Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach, in an unattended vehicle, or in an unlocked room. Even a locked vehicle in an area with parking attendants may be broken into. Avoid isolated areas when on foot, especially after dark. Maintain situational awareness and secure your valuables out of sight.

The Embassy is aware of reports of robbery of isolated rental properties. Research any rental homes to ensure they have adequate security and remember to properly secure all doors and windows.

See the Costa Rica Country Security Report (osac.gov) for an overview of crime in Costa Rica. For information about international financial scams, see the Department of State and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  United States citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the United States Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the United States Embassy at +506 2519-2000 or [email protected]. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. Authorities will only investigate and prosecute a crime if the victim files a police report (denuncia). The Costa Rican Investigative Police (OIJ) is responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes that occur in Costa Rica.

To file a police report : Visit the local office of the OIJ. You can find the closest location by calling 800-800-3000. The Tourist Police can also take reports at the following tourist destinations:

• Puerto Viejo
• El Coco See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

U.S. Embassy San Jose can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys 
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S .
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

A police report with a case number is necessary for case follow up, insurance claims, and waiving of rebooking fees on certain airlines. Check with airlines regarding their rebooking policies.

Beach Safety : Swimming areas at some popular beaches around Costa Rica can have dangerous rip currents. Some beaches lack lifeguards or warnings of unsafe conditions. United States citizens have died in Costa Rica due to these dangers. Check the Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) website, or with your hotel or relevant tour operator to request current information on local swimming and surf conditions. You can read more about staying safe on Costa Rican beaches in this ICT pamphlet, which is in English and Spanish . Please be aware that the Costa Rica Tourism Institute confirms that there are trained lifeguards at the following beaches:

Pacific Coast:

• Manuel Antonio Beach Caldera Beach
• Esterillos Oeste Beach
• Bahia Ballena Beach
• Ventanas Beach
• Tamarindo Beach

Caribbean Coast:

• Cocles Beach
• Manzanillo Beach
• Negra Beach (Limon)

The Oceanographic Information Module at the Center for Research in Marine Sciences of the University of Costa Rica provides public information regarding wind and wave forecasts, including warnings of hazardous conditions. You can learn more about the dangers of rip currents and how to avoid them from the NOAA National Weather Service's Rip Current webpage.

Do not dive into water of unknown depth. Do not swim alone, especially at isolated beaches. Avoid the consumption of alcohol while swimming.

Tourism : The Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) website maintains a list of Certified Tour Guides . You can also find valuable tourism safety and security information for Costa Rica in these English and Spanish language pamphlets provided by ICT .

Adventure Sports:   Some tour operators take risks, and government regulation and oversight of firms that organize sporting activities may not always adhere to international standards and best practices. United States citizens have died in Costa Rica while participating in adventure sports. Use caution and common sense when engaging in ALL adventure sports, such as bungee jumping, sky diving, hiking, rappelling, climbing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, etc. Make sure your medical insurance covers your sport. See our section on Medical Insurance under “Health” below. The Ministry of Health maintains a list of authorized Adventure Sports operators.

Never participate in adventure sports alone. Always carry identification and let others know where you are at all times. Before kayaking and rafting, check river conditions and wear a life jacket and helmet. Even popular rafting locations such as the Rio Naranjo near Quepos can become extremely dangerous in flash flood conditions. When hiking, rappelling, or climbing, carry a first aid kit and know the location of the nearest rescue center. Observe all local or park regulations and exercise caution in unfamiliar surroundings.

Domestic Violence:  United States citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Students and Volunteers:  Violent assaults, rapes, and deaths have occurred involving students and volunteers. Ensure that your organization provides safety and security information on the area where you will stay. See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips . To register complaints: Contact Costa Rica’s Tourism Commission  or by phone at 800-TURISMO from Costa Rica or 011-506-2299-5800 from the United States. Email:   [email protected]

Potential for Natural Disasters:  Costa Rica is in an active earthquake and volcanic zone.  

• Three volcanoes , two near San Jose and one in the northwest, have become more active in recent years. Ashfall due to volcanic eruptions from Turrialba can disrupt air traffic and cause or aggravate respiratory issues. Visitors should monitor and follow park service guidance and alerts regarding volcanic activity. Never attempt to climb or gain unauthorized access to an active volcano.
• Tsunamis  may occur following significant earthquakes.
• Flooding  occurs during the rainy season, typically from April until October, in the Caribbean Province of Limon and the Pacific Provinces of Puntarenas and Guanacaste.
• Flash floods and severe landslides  occur in many parts of Costa Rica, depending on the time of year and rainfall. Do not drive into water of unknown depths.

For information concerning disasters, see:

• U.S. Embassy Costa Rica website . The Embassy also sends out emergency information via e-mail, text, and/or Radio Dos (FM 99.5) or Radio Columbia (FM 98.7.)
• U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  provides general information about natural disaster preparedness 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding disease.
• U.S. Geological Survey  provides updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity.

Additional information regarding volcanic activity and other natural disasters in Costa Rica may be obtained from the following Spanish-language Costa Rican websites:

• Costa Rican National Emergency Commission
• Costa Rican Volcanic and Seismic Observatory

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Strikes may affect transportation, fuel supplies, and other public services. Local law prohibits foreigners from participating in public demonstrations, and violators may be subject to detention or deportation.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Hiking : When visiting national parks, abide by signage and stick to marked trails. First responders have limited ability to locate missing persons in remote areas.

To hike in national parks, you must:

• Register with the park
• Obtain an entry permit
• Consider using a certified tour operator. The Costa Rican Tourist Institute (ICT) has contact information for Certified Tour Guides .

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules are regularly enforced. Inspections take place on a regular basis; however, some lapses may occur in businesses that are not properly registered. Hazardous areas or activities are not always identified with appropriate signage. Professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is available but may be delayed due to road and traffic conditions as well as physical distances. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. United States citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

The Embassy is aware of isolated reports of uniformed officers or impostors demanding a bribe. Should you be confronted for a bribe, do not argue. Note the name of the officer and any identifying numbers on the uniform or vehicle and report the incident by calling “ 911 .”

Ayahuasca/Kambo/Hallucinogens:  Traditional hallucinogens, often referred to as ayahuasca or kambo, are often marketed to travelers as part of a “ceremony” or “spiritual cleansing.” Such substances typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong hallucinogen that is illegal in the United States and many other countries.

• Intoxicated travelers, including United States citizens, have been sexually assaulted, injured, or robbed while under the influence of these substances.
• Health risks associated with ayahuasca are not well understood, and, on occasion, United States citizens have suffered serious illness or death after taking these drugs.
• These incidents often occur in remote areas far away from modern medical facilities, increasing the risks.

Alcohol/Drugs:  Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe, including long jail sentences and heavy fines. The possession, purchase, and sale of marijuana and marijuana related products are illegal in Costa Rica

Prostitution/Sex Tourism:  Local law forbids promoting or facilitating the prostitution of another person. Local laws regarding human trafficking and child exploitation carry extremely harsh penalties, including large fines and significant jail time, including for first-time offenders.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the United States Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

The law permits pre-trial detention of persons accused of serious crimes. Due to overcrowding in local prisons, courts may instead use an “exit impediment.” Individuals subject to these measures cannot depart Costa Rica, must be able to support themselves, and must check in with judicial authorities on a regular basis. Defendants have the right to a public defender and an official translator for important hearings. 

Judicial Process:  Due to differences in legal systems and case backlogs, local criminal and civil judicial processes can move slower in comparison to their United States equivalents. Civil suits on average take over five years to resolve. Some United States firms and citizens have satisfactorily resolved their cases through the courts, while others have seen proceedings drawn out over a decade without a final ruling.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Costa Rica. See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Accessibility and accommodation are limited. Many buildings remain inaccessible and the Costa Rican Ombudsman’s Office has received several noncompliance reports regarding accessibility or malfunctioning of hydraulic wheelchair lifts for public transportation. 

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Residency:   United States citizens seeking to live or reside long-term in Costa Rica should consider seeking local legal counsel for guidance on the requirements to obtain  legal residency . Local authorities have imposed limited entry permits or deported United States citizens suspected of improperly using their tourist status to live in Costa Rica.

Real Estate:  Be extremely cautious when making real estate purchases or investments, consult with reputable legal counsel, and thoroughly review the contract. There is little the United States Embassy can do to assist United States citizens who enter into land or business disputes; you must be prepared to take your case to the local courts.

Civil archives recording land titles are at times incomplete or contradictory. Coastal land within 50 meters of the high tide line is open to the public and therefore closed to development. The next 150 meters inland (“Maritime Zone”) cannot be owned by foreign nationals. Land in this zone is administered by the local municipality. Expropriation of private land by the Costa Rican government without compensation considered adequate or prompt has affected some United States investors.

Property owners are encouraged to maintain security and access controls on any private property.   Organized squatter groups have invaded properties, taking advantage of legal provisions that allow people without land to gain title to unused property. Victims of squatters have reported threats, harassment, and violence.

Check the  Embassy’s website  for a list of local lawyers. 

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Costa Rica, dial  911 . 

• Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below United States standards. 
• Medical care in San Jose is generally adequate, but services can be limited in areas outside of San Jose. In remote areas, basic medical equipment may not be available. Ambulances may lack emergency equipment. 
• Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are available; however, some United States citizens travel regularly to the United States to fill prescriptions that are unavailable locally. Bring a supply of your medications and carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that United States Medicare/Medicaid does  not  apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do  not  accept United States health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 
• Costa Rican immigration authorities reserve the right to prevent departure of those international travelers with unpaid or disputed medical bills.
• The United States Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals on our  Embassy website . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 
• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Costa Rican Ministry of Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Costa Rica. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Proof of yellow fever vaccination must be presented upon arrival for all passengers coming from  certain countries in South America or Africa .

Medical Tourism:  Confirm that: 

• Facilities and professionals will be able to provide an acceptable level of care 
• Your insurance will cover any associated or emergency costs 
• You understand the terms of payment and costs for treatment 

For clinics offering alternative medical treatments, thoroughly research these clinics and their providers. The Embassy has received reports of hospitalizations as a result of clients at so-called wellness centers undergoing medically unverified “alternative treatments.” 

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. An air ambulance flight can cost $25,000 to $50,000 USD and will often take place only after payment has been received in full. 

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC) 

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

  Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout Costa Rica but health care in rural areas may be below United States standards. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. 
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:  United States   citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling.
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Costa Rica. 
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Costa Rica. 
• Although Costa Rica has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Costa Rica, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. 

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, be the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

• United States Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.
• Costa Rica does not allow the importation of most medications through the mail, even with a prescription. Travelers entering Costa Rica may carry personal medications with them and in suitcases, but also should carry a copy of the prescriptions. Medications should be in original packaging, and quantities should correspond to the prescription. Please review Costa Rica’s rules on importing medication at the  Ministry of Health website .

Alcohol: If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill. There have been reports of individuals falling ill or dying after consuming alcohol tainted with methanol. Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health has advised any persons presenting health issues after consuming alcohol, such as severe vomiting, agitation, disorientation, blindness, or any other adverse reactions, to immediately call 911. Ministry of Health authorities are asking people to report any instances of the sale of unregulated alcohol or alcohol adulterated with methanol to the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) confidential line at 800-8000-645, or by email to [email protected], or by calling the National Center for Intoxicants at 2223-1028 or 800-INTOXICA (4686-9422). Additionally, if you feel you have been the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation, you should notify the American Citizen Services unit at the U.S. Embassy in San Jose at +506-2519-2000. You may also contact the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:  If you are considering traveling to Costa Rica to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 

Water Quality:  In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. 

Adventure Travel:  Visit the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel . 

General Health Language:  The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• HIV/AIDS: Follow all standard procedures for protection against the spread of HIV/AIDS.
• Visit the UUnited States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in Costa Rica

Air Quality:  The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• People over 65 years of age 
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. 
• People with heart disease or diabetes 
• People who work or are active outdoors 

Travel and Transportation

The Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) provides an English and Spanish language pamphlet with tips for safe driving in Costa Rica .

Road Conditions and Safety:  Take extra care when driving. Roads are often in poor condition, lack clearly marked lanes, and have narrow shoulders and large potholes. Signage can be inadequate. Visibility at intersections is often limited by hedges or other obstacles. 

• In the event of car trouble or a flat tire, look for a well-lit, populated area such as a gas station to pull over. Be wary of unsolicited offers of assistance from strangers, particularly in less populated areas.
• Main highways and principal roads in the major cities are paved, but some roads to beaches and other rural locations are not. Many destinations are accessible only with four-wheel drive vehicles with high ground clearance.
• Exercise extreme caution when driving across moving water, especially through riverbeds and over hanging bridges. Even a few inches of water could destabilize your vehicle.
• Landslides are common. Some roads, even those leading to major population centers, may be temporarily impassable during the rainy season. When staying outside of urban areas, call ahead to hotels regarding the current status of access roads.
• Avoid driving at night outside urban areas.  
• Expect traffic jams in and around San Jose.
• Motorcyclists often drive without respect to rules of the road, passing on the right, or weaving in and out without warning. Buses and cars frequently stop in travel lanes, even on expressways.

Bridges:  Bridges, even on heavily traveled roads, may be only a single lane. Rural roads sometimes lack bridges, compelling motorists to ford waterways. Do not drive through water.

Traffic Laws:   Drivers will need a valid passport and valid United States driver’s license or an international driving permit.

• Fines for routine traffic violations can be upwards of $500 USD.
• Laws and speed limits are often ignored, turn signals are rarely used, passing on dangerous stretches of highway is common, and pedestrians are not given the right of way.
• In the event of a traffic accident, do not move the vehicle. Both the traffic police and an insurance investigator must make accident reports before the vehicles can be moved. Drivers using rental cars should clarify their company’s policy in the event of accidents. Rental companies may levy additional charges on drivers for failing to file a report.
• There is a high fatality rate for pedestrians and those riding bicycles or motorcycles. In the event of a traffic fatality, a judge must arrive at the scene to pronounce a person dead, which could take several hours. If there is an ongoing investigation of a vehicular accident resulting in death or injuries, you may not be allowed to leave the country for several months.

Public Transportation:  United States citizens have reported having items stolen while using public transportation across Costa Rica. United States citizens should take care to maintain awareness of their surroundings and avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry, and should always keep bags and other personal items under their personal control. United States citizens are strongly discouraged from using public buses, where pickpocketing is common. United States citizens should take only licensed taxis or familiar ride share services and should never accept rides from unlicensed or “pirate” vehicles.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Costa Rica’s  national tourist office  and national authority responsible for road safety.

Unpaid traffic tickets:   United States   citizens have occasionally reported to the Embassy that charges for unpaid traffic tickets have appeared on the credit card that was on file with their rental car company. The Embassy cannot intervene in such cases.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Costa Rica’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Costa Rica’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Costa Rica should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Costa Rica was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Costa Rica . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Requirements

• Planning Your Trip
• Entry Requirements

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Country entry requirements

Entry to Costa Rica is allowed for tourists from all countries.

Each visitor must comply with the migratory processes established in the General Law of Migration and Immigration. Starting April 1, the temporary migration measures established in the framework of the national health emergency due to COVID-19 are repealed.

During their stay in Costa Rica, tourists must follow the health protocols established by private companies in order to participle in any tourist activity.

Country Entry Requirements

Tourists can verify if they require entry with or without a visa at the following link: https://migracion.go.cr/Paginas/Visas.aspx . The CIRCULAR DG-004-2021-UI-AJ that details the countries in the first, second, third and fourth groups is available at: https://migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Circulares%20y%20Directrices/2021/DIRECTRICES%20GENERALES%20DE%20INGRESO%20Circular%20DG-004-2021-UI-AJFEB%202021.pdf In the framework of the pandemic, the following requirements were also established: (in force until April 1, 2022)

1. Complete the digital form called HEALTH PASS, available at  https://salud.go.cr

The Health Pass can only be completed within 72 hours prior to arrival in the country. It must be accessed via updated browsers with the exception of Internet Explorer. One form must be completed per person, including minors. All tourists must complete the Health Pass.

*Important Update (Feb. 23, 2022)* Beginning March 7, 2022, the current Health Pass requirement to enter the country will be eliminated for Costa Ricans, although this requirement will remain for foreigners. Beginning April 1, 2022, the Health Pass and travel insurance policy requirements will be eliminated for all individuals. However, a travel insurance policy is recommended to cover medical expenses and lodging in the event of COVID-19 infection.

2. Travel Policy

Tourists who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and individuals aged 18 and younger (even if unvaccinated) can enter the country without a travel policy. The last dose of the vaccine must have been applied at least 14 days prior to arrival in Costa Rica.

The list of authorized vaccines include: AstraZeneca: Covishield, Vaxzervia, AXD1222, ChAdOx1, ChAdOx1_nCoV19 India Janssen: COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, Johnson & Johnson y Ad26.COV2.S Moderna: Spikevax, mRNA-1273 Pfizer-BioNTech: Comirnaty, BNT162b2 y Tozinameran Sinovac: COVID-19 Vaccine (vero cell), Coronavac ™ Sinopharm: SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine (vero cell), Inactivated (InCoV) Covaxin: BBV152, Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine

Vaccinated tourists must attach their vaccination certificate to the Health Pass. As proof, vaccination certificates and vaccination cards that contain at least the following information will be accepted:

• Name of the individual who received the vaccine
• Date of each dose
• Pharmaceutical site

In the case of U.S. travelers, the "COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card" will be accepted.

Documentation must be submitted in English or Spanish. Submitting documentation in a different language will prevent it from being reviewed. The Ministry of Health and the Costa Rican Tourism Institute are exempt from any responsibility in the event that a traveler submits information in a language other than English or Spanish.

Unvaccinated individuals aged 18 and older must purchase a travel policy with a duration equal to the period of stay in the country, with the exception of passengers in transit, whose minimum validity is five days that covers, at least, medical expenses generated by Covid-19 and lodging expenses due to quarantine.

International Policies

Tourists can select any international insurance company that meets the following requirements: 1. Valid during the entire stay in Costa Rica (coverage dates) 2. $50,000 for medical expenses, including COVID-19 infection 3. $2,000 for lodging expenses in the event of COVID-19 quarantine Travelers must ask their insurance company for a certificate/letter in English or Spanish stating the following information: 1. Name of the individual traveling 2. Validity of the effective policy during the Costa Rica visit (travel dates) 3. Guaranteed coverage for medical expenses in the event of COVID-19 in Costa Rica, valued at least $50,000 4. Minimum coverage of $2,000 for lodging expenses for quarantine or trip interruption for this same amount This certificate must specify that the policy covers COVID-19 and must be uploaded to the  HEALTH PASS  to be reviewed and approved by Costa Rican authorities. 

IMPORTANT : Insurance cards are not accepted. The document must include the verification of the coverage mentioned.

Costa Rican Policies

Tourists can also select any of the following Costa Rican insurance companies, which sell products registered and authorized by the General Superintendency of Insurance of Costa Rica. INS:  https://www.grupoins.com/seguros-para-viajero/seguro-viajero-ingreso-costa-rica/ Sagicor:  https://tiendasagicor.com/en/ BlueCross BlueShield:  https://www.bluecrossblueshieldcr.com/rod    

IMPORTANT:  The minimum coverage is set at $50,000 for international policies, while the minimum coverage for policies sold by Costa Rican insurers is set at $20,000.

Foreigners in the immigration category with a permanent or temporary residence, or a special category in the latter case (with the exception of the Student Subcategory), must demonstrate the assurance by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, which is in force and can be verified at the following link:  https://sfa.ccss.sa.cr/servMedicos/validarDerechos.do Tourists who are in transit through the country must purchase insurance with a minimum coverage of five days. Costa Rican citizens do not require health insurance. Tourists are requested and warned not to attach unsolicited personal documents, such as copies of credit cards, keys or private passwords or other information in the Health Pass:  https://salud.go.cr  nor in emails to  [email protected] . Only a copy of the insurance policy should be attached.

Entry by air or land - By land, the country admits tourists from groups one and two  included in the general guidelines for entry and stay visas for non-residents who do not require a visa. Tourists can email [email protected] if they have any questions or concerns about medical insurance requirements.

Entry by sea - On Sept. 1, Costa Rica reactivated cruise tourism for the 2021-2022 season. As a requirement, vessels must guarantee complete vaccination schedules against the COVID-19 virus in all crew members and 95% of passengers who are of age to be vaccinated.

Yacht and sailboat passengers and crew members can email [email protected] if they have any questions or concerns about medical insurance requirements.

Those who fail to comply with these requirements will not be permitted to enter the country.

FAQ about entry requirements for fully vaccinated tourists and minors

FAQ on travel requirements to enter the United States during COVID-19

FAQ about COVID-19 testing sites in Costa Rica

Welcome to Costa Rica! To visit our country there are some requirements which must be met.

Remember that:

A return flight ticket is needed when entering Costa Rica. The immigration officer will ask for it upon your arrival. It is advisable to make a photocopy or take a picture of your passport with the entry stamp to carry at all times during your stay.

• Your country of origin determines the amount of days available to stay in Costa Rica as a tourist.
• In some cases, the Immigration official may request you show economic solvency for your stay in the country.
• Even with a 90-day tourist visa, the immigration official determines the duration of your stay as allowed by your passport.

Visitors to Costa Rica must have a valid passport as well as proof of their intent to exit the country before their visa or entry stamp expires, usually within 90 days.

All non-resident travelers must possess a return ticket or a ticket as proof of when they intend to exit the country, commonly referred to as an outbound exit or onward ticket. An onward ticket is required of non-residents who are:

• Traveling on a one-way ticket
• Entering the country with a return ticket dated more than 90 days after arrival
• Flying into Costa Rica and flying out of another country

By law, an onward ticket includes any of the following on approved, commercial transport:

• A pre-purchased bus ticket out of the country
• A pre-purchased flight out of the country
• Proof of passage on a cruise ship

Obligation to Declare when entering or leaving Costa Rica:

When entering or leaving a port in Costa Rica, if you carry an amount equal to or greater than the US $ 10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies, cash or securities, you must request and complete the form provided for this purpose at the migration post and present it to the Customs Authority for verification; The declaration must be made before finalizing the corresponding immigration procedures. The omission of what is established by Costa Rican law (No. 8204, article 35) will result in the immediate loss of money.

What inoculations do I need before entering Costa Rica?

Starting on July 30, 2007, all travelers coming from the following countries must possess a yellow fever vaccination certificate before entry into Costa Rica will be allowed: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and the Republic of Guyana.

For more information click here

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Planning your Trip to Costa Rica

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Travel information and maps, passports & visas.

NOTE: As always tourist visas are issued to most visitors (see list of automatic visa countries ) upon arrival.  However, the length of stay indicated on the visa  may be less than  the previously automatic 90 days. 

Proper documentation is the sole responsibility of each traveler.  This information was accurate at the time of writing, but Costa Rican immigration is the only authoritative source for passport, visa and other entry requirements (their website migracion.go.cr has pdf documents with specifics for each country of origin and the requirements).

If entry is denied travelers normally do not receive any refund for airline tickets or missed vacations.  Most travel insurance is not valid if travelers do not have proper documentation.

visas | covid | passport validity | immunizations | kids | onward travel | xerox

The U.S. Department of State and the equivalent offices in other countries make the general  recommendation that if your passport expires within six months of your travel dates you should renew it.

Costa Rican Immigration Requirements

If you are traveling on a U.S., Canadian or European Union Passport you do not have to apply for a visa in advance (see list of other easy entry countries ).

When you arrive in Costa Rica the minimum requirements are

• a valid * passport in good condition
• an onward ticket (to leave Costa Rica at the end of your vacation)
• $300 U.S. (you don’t have to pay $300 just show that you have at least that much). A little known requirement is that you be able to show “proof of economic sufficiency”.  It’s not clear how you’re going to survive on $3.30 a day ($300 divided by 90 day visa) but that’s the number.  We’ve only heard of this coming up once and it seemed probable that the immigration official just didn’t like the attitude of the potential visitor.  Be polite.

The requirements for entry into Costa Rica are subject to change at any time and without notice and it is the sole responsibility of the traveler to ensure they are in compliance. Please check the Costa Rican government links or call the offices listed below for the current official requirements.

The Costa Rica Embassy in the U.S. maintains a list of requirements for individual countries in English.  The Ministerio de Gobernación y Policía Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería has the official version in Spanish – visa requirements for all countries

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores -Ministry of Foreign Affairs may be able to help if you’re not on the list of “easy entry” citizens. P.O. Box: 10027-1000 San José, Costa Rica Phone : (506) 2223-7555 / 2223-0522 Fax : (506) 2223-60-94

Visa Extensions

Ultimately it is up to the discretion of the immigration official on duty to determine whether you will be granted permission to enter Costa Rica and for how long.

Historically tourist visas have automatically been issued for 90 days.

The U.S. embassy states that it is impossible to obtain a visa extension from inside of Costa Rica and visitors wishing to stay longer must leave the country and return; thus obtaining a new visa.  Technically according to immigration it is possible to get an extension but like most bureaucracy in Costa Rica it is so convoluted and difficult it may as well be impossible.

Here are the online instructions to request a Costa Rica Visa extension   including where to deposit the $100 application fee.  They are only available in Spanish so google translate is helpful.

As usual however, there are “alternative” solutions.

First, there are no established penalties for overstaying a tourist visa.  The lawmakers have battled about it for years and scofflaws have always been punished by an unofficial policy of making things difficult and harassment when they tried to return.

Second, an immigration official informed us that if you make an appointment to apply for residency (at migracion.co.cr or by calling 1311) you will receive an e-mail confirmation of the appointment and that will automatically extend your tourist visa to 90 days no matter what is stamped in your passport.  Seriously.  We couldn’t make this stuff up if we tried.

Immunizations & Health Certificates

There are no Covid related requirements or restrictions of any kind for anyone to enter or travel around Costa Rica.

For 99% of visitors there are no health certificates or immunizations required to enter Costa Rica

The only vaccination requirement is for citizens of or travelers coming from a country in South America or Africa where yellow fever is present.  If you have stayed in (transit through an airport or port does not count) one of the countries where it is endemic you will need

• a certificate of immunization dated at least a week before your arrival in Costa Rica
• passport stamp(s) showing you have spent at least one week in a country with no yellow fever
• a normal (37 °C, 98.6 °F) body temperature

Your Airline Will Try to Help With Visa and Passport Questions

Typically if you are denied entry to Costa Rica the airline that you arrived on is held responsible by immigration, must pay a fine, and must fly you home within 24 hours.  Since this is expensive and inconvenient for the airline they typically try to be sure you will be permitted to enter.  Most airlines request your passport information at the time you purchase your tickets and if you need to renew or apply for a visa they will let you know.

Most airlines check again before they allow you to board the plane, but that’s not a very helpful time to find out that you should have renewed your passport.

The airlines use something called TIMATIC WEB 2 which costs €499 ($550) per year plus €0.15 per inquiry to access current information from the International Air Transport Association (IATA – airline trade association) .

Valid vs Invalid Passports

An unsigned passport is not valid and cannot be signed once presented to an immigration official.  A torn, smudged or otherwise damaged passport may not be valid.  A passport without sufficient space for new stamps is not valid.

¡Sign Your Passport!

If you’ve gotten a new passport for your Costa Rica travels please remember to sign it!  Your passport is not valid until you sign it and if you hand it to the immigration official unsigned they may declare you ineligible for entry and send you home.  You may not be allowed to sign it on the spot .  No kidding.

The argument is that the passport could be stolen and belong to someone else (who just happens to look identical to you).  Of course if they let you sign it then try to validate your signature by having you sign a piece of paper the two signatures will look the same because they are both “forged” by the same person who “stole” the passport of someone who looks identical to the person in the picture (you).

Once they’ve decided, you’re done for, and it won’t matter that you’ve also got a drivers license, library card and half a dozen credit cards that are already signed – you’ll be on your way home.

Age Doesn’t Matter

Everyone regardless of age and regardless of whether they are traveling with their parents or not must have their own passport and electronic health pass .

According to the Costa Rican Embassy in the U.S. “Minors who are not Costa Rican nationals nor legal residents in Costa Rica do not require a permit from the parents to enter/exit Costa Rica. However, we recommend a letter of consent duly notarized from the parent who is not accompanying the minor.”

We strongly recommend you follow that advice and make sure your kids under 18 are accompanied by a signed and notarized letter giving the parent or guardian who is traveling permission to cross the border with the minor.

Onward Tickets

You may read a lot of false information on the internet saying that an onward ticket is not really required.  Do not assume that this requirement will not be enforced or you may find yourself headed home instead of the beach.

We traveled from Costa Rica to Panama and back and were required to show onward tickets when crossing the border in both directions.  In addition we were actually required to show that we had tickets back to our passport issuing country. So when we crossed from Cost Rica to Panama we had to show tickets for the Nature Air flight to San José and tickets for the Southwest Airlines flight from San José to Denver.

For traveler’s that do not have an onward ticket the most common solution is to simply buy one and cancel it within 24 hours.  Nearly all airlines issue full refunds for at least one day.  Another option is to use one of the many onwardticket dot com services.  These are registered travel agencies who’s only function is to purchase fully refundable tickets and cancel them a couple of days later.  They charge $12-$20 per ticket to do it for you so you don’t have to remember to cancel.

visas | passport validity | immunizations | kids | onward travel | xerox

Green Cards, Residence Permits & Trans National Permissions

There are all sorts of special cases from special places but the most common one we get questions about is whether a U.S. Green Card (or European Union Residence Card etc.) can be used for travel to Costa Rica.  The answer is sometimes yes.  As this wikipedia page explains in some circumstances citizens of countries like India which would normally require a Costa Rican Visa may travel for up to 30 days if they also hold a Green Card valid for at least six months after arrival.

Sound complicated?  It is.  If you’re a special case please check with the official resources listed above to make sure you’ve got it figured out.

Immunization Records

Immunization records (such as a WHO card or doctor’s letter) are only required for travelers who have passports stamps indicating that they have recently traveled to an area where yellow fever is present.  If you’ve been to Asia, Africa or South America you may need evidence of a yellow fever immunization.

Driver’s License

U.S., Canadian and European driver’s licenses are valid to rent and drive a car in Costa Rica for the period of your Visa.  You do not need an international or Costa Rican driver’s license unless you stay longer than the Visa duration stamped in your passport.

If your driver’s license expires during your travels there is no grace period.  Renew it at least one month in advance of your travel or you may end up like I recently did with crossed fingers and a temporary license that probably wasn’t worth the paper it was printed on .

Make a Xerox Copy of Your Passport

After you arrive it’s a good idea to make a copy or take a photo of your passport ( both the picture & info page and  visa/entry stamp pages – you can’t do it at home because you won’t have the required visa/entry stamp until you enter).

Your passport is required for ID and must technically be on your person at all times.  However, you are allowed to leave your passport in the hotel safe and carry a copy of these two pages instead.  If you are driving you are technically required to carry your original.

Taking photos with your phone or digital camera may work (we’ve talked our way through immigration stops with a photo a couple of times), but technically a paper Xerox copy is required.   If you’re renting a car the agency makes copies for their records so you can ask them to make an extra for you.  If you’re not getting a car ask at your hotel or lodge if they have a copy machine.

Seems obvious but the automatic reflex to fold the copy and stick it in your passport is a very bad idea… put it somewhere else so if your passport is lost or stolen you have the information to start the replacement process.

NOTE: A paper copy is more helpful if your U.S. passport is lost or stolen – no cell phones, laptops or other electronics are allowed to be carried into the embassy.

List of Countries With Easy Entry into Costa Rica

Passport holders from all of the countries listed below are allowed entry into Costa Rica for a maximum of 180 days (non-renewable) without obtaining a consular Visa in advance.  In other words, just show up and they’ll let you in unless Interpol or the FBI is after you or there are other extenuating circumstances.

No Consular (in advance) Visa Required.  Just Show up with a Passport valid for at least ONE DAY .

Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada , Croatia, Chile, Cyprus, Denmark, Germany , United Arab Emirates, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Qatar, Estonia , Finland, France , Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Montenegro, Norway, New Zealand, Netherlands , Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Principality of Monaco, San Marino, Peru, Puerto Rico, Serbia, South Africa, Kingdom of Great Britain , Northern Ireland, Czech Republic, Republic of South Korea, Hellenic Republic (Greece), Romania, Holy See, Singapore, Sweden , Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, United States of America , Uruguay

No Consular (in advance) Visa Required.  Just Show up with a Passport valid for at least 90 DAYs .

Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Bolivia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Brunei State, Russian Federation, Philippines, Fiji, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Northern Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Micronesia, Naurupalaos, Kingdom of Tonga, Samoa, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Seychelles, Suriname, Taiwan, Tuvalu, Turkey, Ukraine, Vanuatu, Venezuela

Don’t Underestimate the Capacity of Bureaucrats for Pettiness

To be on the safe side we personally renew our passports at least three months before they are scheduled to expire.

Previously Costa Rica required passports be valid for at least three months.  This caused international tension and a nightmare for the tourism industry when immigration officials refused entry to families on vacation because their passports expired eight or ten weeks after their vacation was scheduled to end.

The policy was changed and in early 2016 the Costa Rican embassy website stated that passports from the U.S., Canada and E.U. only needed to be valid on the day of arrival.  As crazy as the previous requirement seemed, granting entry on a passport that expires the next day seems even crazier.  Foreign visitors are not allowed to travel around using an expired passport and won’t be allowed to return home using an expired passport.

Even if someone convinced an airline to fly them to Costa Rica a day before their passport expired their only legitimate options would be to return home the same day or head straight to their embassy for an emergency renewal.

As mentioned above we renew our passports at least three months before they are scheduled to expire just to avoid this sort of silliness.

Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?

Aug 10, 2023 • 3 min read

Not all visitors to Costa Rica have to apply for a tourist visa in advance © Bkamprath / Getty Images

Epic landscapes, diverse wildlife and the creative capital city of San José  draw many visitors from all over the world to Costa Rica  – don't risk a last-minute disappointment by not having your paperwork in order.

Whilst all visitors need a valid passport and proof of onward travel to enter the country, not everyone needs a visa. Stays of up to 90 days are possible for passport holders of many different nationalities; others need to apply at their nearest consulate in advance. Here's everything you need to know about getting a visa for Costa Rica.

Not every traveler needs a tourist visa to enter Costa Rica

Passport-carrying nationals from many countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, South Africa, UAE, USA and most of the EU, are allowed to visit for up to 90 days without a visa.

There are additional requirements for some other nationalities, such as having passports with at least three months' validity left on them.

Nationalities required to obtain a visa to enter Costa Rica include a number of African and Middle Eastern countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Kenya, Tanzania and Sierra Leone, as well as a handful of South American countries, including Colombia, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic. However, if you have a valid visa or can prove residency in other countries, such as the UK, USA, Canada, and the EU, you may not need to apply for a visa to go to Costa Rica. 

The Costa Rica Embassy keeps an up-to-date online list of visa requirements by nationality – check before you travel to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Extending your tourist visa is tricky

Extending your stay beyond the authorized 30 or 90 days allotted to tourists is time-consuming; it’s often easier to leave the country for 72 hours via land and then re-enter. Extensions can be handled by migración offices. Requirements for extensions often change, so allow several working days to get them sorted.

Apply for student and work visas in advance

If you wish to stay in Costa Rica longer than 90 days, you must establish residency or apply for a provisional or student visa in advance. Students, volunteers, academics, and research specialists are among those who can apply for a provisional visa, and it's best to let the institution or employer who is sponsoring you handle the details.

It is difficult for foreigners to find work in Costa Rica. The only foreigners legally employed in Costa Rica are those who work for their own businesses, possess skills not found in the country, or work for companies that have special agreements with the government. Getting a bona fide job necessitates obtaining a work permit, which can be a time-consuming and difficult process.

The most likely source of paid employment is as an English teacher at one of the language institutes, or working in the hospitality industry in a hotel or resort. Naturalists or river guides may also be able to find work with private lodges or adventure-travel operators.

There are additional checks if you want to move to Costa Rica full-time

Costa Rica is a popular destination for digital nomads and expats, but to truly settle down with a residence permit , you have to jump through some hoops. To meet the visa requirements, you must submit to a background check, prove you have a certain level of regular, secured income, and submit a copy of your birth certificate in Spanish, amongst other checks.

This article was first published Jul 29, 2021 and updated Aug 10, 2023.

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Costa Rica Solved

Tourist Visa In Costa Rica: A Simple Guide

Stepping into Costa Rica on a tourist visa opens the door to a realm where adventure and tranquility coexist, inviting you to experience the essence of Pura Vida firsthand. Need assistance with tourist visa? Don’t Worry! We’ve got your back!

This guide offers a straightforward walkthrough of the tourist visa process, designed to smooth your pathway to exploring Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and rich culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or a peace seeker, let’s get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Central America.

Let’s dive in!

Who Needs To Apply For A Visa To Costa Rica?

Costa Rica’s Visa Policy Is Structured Into Four Distinct Groups:

• Visa-Exempt Travelers: Nationals from countries like the United States and European Union member states can visit Costa Rica with just a valid passport, which should have at least one day of validity remaining upon entry. They are permitted a stay of up to 90 days.
• Another Group Of Visa-Exempt Travellers: Certain nationals can visit Costa Rica with only a valid passport, provided it has at least three months of validity from arrival. They can stay for a maximum of 30 days.
• Foreign Nationals Requiring A Costa Rica Consular Visa: These individuals must apply for this visa at a Costa Rican consulate in their home country. This visa grants them a stay of up to 30 days in Costa Rica.
• Foreign Nationals Needing A Costa Rica Restricted Visa: This visa type demands approval from the Commission of Restricted Visas . The holder can remain in Costa Rica for up to 30 days if granted.

Overall, the requirements for a visa to visit Costa Rica vary according to nationality and required type of visa. 

While some travellers can enter the Schengen area without a visa, others must have an embassy or restricted visa before their arrival. 

Before you plan your trip to Costa Rica, you must check the particular requirements imposed by nationality .

What Are The Costa Rica Visa Requirements?

The Costa Rica visa requirements encompass several essential documents:

• Purpose of travel
• Personal information (name, age, date, and place of birth)
• Passport number and nationality
• Residence details
• Intended dates of arrival and departure from Costa Rica
• Accommodation arrangements
• Contact information and signature
• A complete photocopy of all passport pages, ensuring validity for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
• However, payment should be withheld until visa approval for a return flight ticket reservation to avoid financial loss.
• Dimensions: 2 inches x 2 inches
• White background
• Neutral facial expression, looking straight ahead
• Glasses are permitted if they do not obscure the eyes or face.
• No headgear except for religious purposes, provided it does not cover the face.
• Bank statements from the past three months.
• Employer’s letter or proof of property ownership.
• Certificate of police clearance from the applicant’s home country.
• Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination if arriving from a high-risk area.
• For visa or permanent residency holders in another country, submission of relevant documentation.

How Do You Apply For A Costa Rica Visa?

The process of applying for a Costa Rica visa varies depending on whether you need a Costa Rica Consular Visa or a Costa Rica Restricted Visa .

For A Costa Rica Consular Visa

• Contact the Costa Rica consulate in your jurisdiction to schedule an appointment for your visa application.
• Prepare and submit the required documents outlined in the “ Requirements ” section.
• Fill out the Costa Rica visa application form on the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería website.
• The consulate may request additional documents or an interview before processing your visa application.
• Once all documents are submitted, await notification of the visa decision.
• You have 60 days to use the visa to enter Costa Rica if approved.

Some consulates may offer digital visa application options for certain countries , with specific instructions provided by the consulate.

For A Costa Rica Restricted Visa

• An individual residing in Costa Rica or an appointed attorney must apply on your behalf to the Commission of Restricted Visas .
• They must submit a request letter containing their details, reason for the visit , intended duration of stay, accommodation details, and the nearest Costa Rica consulate for visa approval.
• If the Commission approves your visa , the relevant consulate will issue it, allowing you to travel to Costa Rica.

It’s important to note that different consulates may have varying requirements and procedures. Therefore, contacting the appropriate Costa Rica consulate is crucial as the initial step in the visa application process.

Requirements For Costa Rica Visa For USA Nationals

 For tourism purposes, US citizens may travel to Costa Rica for up to 90 days without a visa. Only a valid passport is required ; upon arrival, they will receive an entry stamp from immigration.

A passport should be valid for at least one day after arrival, and passengers must show they have access to a minimum of $300 in funds.

 US nationals must obtain a residence permit in Costa Rica for stays exceeding 90 days.

Ensuring that the passport meets the validity requirements and has sufficient funds available for travel to Costa Rica is a priority for American travellers.

What Are The Requirements For A Costa Rica Visa For Indian Nationals?

Indian citizens are required to obtain a Consular Visa before travelling to Costa Rica. This visa must be applied for through the prescribed application process outlined previously.

Indian nationals should follow the application procedure provided by the Costa Rica consulate in their jurisdiction to apply for the required Consular Visa.

Indian travellers must complete the visa application accurately and submit all necessary documents per the consulate’s requirements .

How Long Does It Take To Get A Costa Rica Visa?

The processing of a Costa Rica visa is usually carried out in approximately 30 calendar days. 

The consulate shall review the visa application, verify documents , and decide whether or not a visa request has been approved .

It’s essential for applicants to factor in this processing time when planning their travel to Costa Rica and to submit their visa application well before their intended departure date to allow for any unforeseen delays in processing.

How Much Is The Costa Rica Visa Fee?

The Costa Rica visa fee amounts to US$52 , payable after the visa has been approved. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether entry to Costa Rica is granted upon arrival.

The consulate handling your application will provide instructions on making the payment, which may require payment at an embassy rather than a consulate.

You must retain the receipt as proof of the Costa Rica visa fee payment upon payment. It’s essential to follow the consulate’s guidelines regarding payment methods and submission of payment receipts.

Is A Costa Rica Visa All The Permission You Need To Enter The Country?

 You will need to obtain a visa to enter Costa Rica. 

At the point of entry into Costa Rica, passengers with a visa shall be subject to immigration control upon arrival. 

The immigration officer shall then decide whether to grant entry and affix a passport accordingly.

Passengers must return to their country of origin if they are refused access. In such cases, it is essential to note that the visa fee will not be refunded.

Indeed, while a Costa Rica visa facilitates the travel process , it is only after arrival that definitive authorisation shall be granted to immigration officials .

Can You Extend A Costa Rica Visa?

By submitting an application to the Directorate General of Immigration in Costa Rica, a tourist visa may be renewed for 60 days. 

In this respect, you will need evidence to support your request for an extension. 

This process allows travellers to extend their stay in Costa Rica beyond the initial visa period, provided they meet the requirements and provide valid reasons for the extension.

Do I Need A Passport To Enter Costa Rica?

Yes, all foreign nationals and US citizens who intend to go to Costa Rica must have their passports in order. Depending on the category of visa exemption, the validity requirement shall vary:

• For visa-exempt travellers in Group 1 , the passport must remain valid for at least one day beyond the entry date.
• Visa-exempt travellers in Group 2 must possess a passport valid for at least three months beyond the entry date.
• Visa-required individuals need a passport valid for at least six months from the date of visa application .

Before travelling to Costa Rica, passengers must ensure their passports meet the specified validity criteria to avoid any problems or delays at the immigration control points.

What Is The Costa Rica Departure Tax?

When departing Costa Rica, all foreign nationals must pay a departure tax, typically around US$28-29 . This tax can be paid in local currency, USD , or by credit card.

However, it’s advisable to confirm with your airline whether the departure tax is already included in your flight ticket, as some airlines may have already included it in the ticket price.

Travellers must budget for this departure tax and be prepared to pay it at the airport before leaving Costa Rica. Please do so to avoid delays or complications during departure.

How Can You Go To Costa Rica To Work Or Study?

Individuals must obtain authorisations within the country to pursue work or study opportunities in Costa Rica. 

The first step is to obtain a provisional visa from the nearest Costa Rica consulate in your home country or closest point of contact.

The next step is to apply for a provisional residence permit, during which you must visit the Costa Rica Immigration Office to complete the application process . 

Individuals who wish to work or study in Costa Rica must initiate the visa application procedure from their home country’s consulate and proceed with the necessary steps when they arrive to ensure compliance with immigration rules.

Can Visa Holders Of The US And Europe Enter Costa Rica?

As long as these visas are valid , visa holders from the United States, Europe, Schengen countries , Canada, and South Korea may enter Costa Rica using their existing visas.

Visitors may remain in Costa Rica for the duration of their current visa or, as permitted by its immigration regulations, for a maximum period.

 Travellers with valid visas from these countries may enter Costa Rica and do not need further visa applications . 

To avoid any problems at the time of your arrival, it is essential to check whether or not you have a valid visa and ensure its duration matches what you intend to stay in Costa Rica for.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining a Tourist Visa in Costa Rica?

• Passport Validity: All travellers must possess a valid passport. The validity requirements vary depending on the visa exemption category. For visa -exempt travellers, the passport should typically remain valid for a certain period beyond the entry date.
• Visa Exemption: Nationals from certain countries, including the United States and European Union member states, are visa-exempt for tourism purposes for a specified duration. Eligibility for visa exemption depends on the traveller’s nationality and is subject to conditions such as passport validity and intended length of stay.
• Visa Requirement: Travellers from countries not covered by visa exemptions must obtain a Costa Rica Consular Visa before travelling. This involves submitting the required documents to the Costa Rica consulate in their home country and undergoing the visa application process.
• Restricted Visa: In some cases, travellers may require a Costa Rica Restricted Visa, issued for specific purposes and require approval from the Commission of Restricted Visas .
• Financial Means: Proof of sufficient financial means may be required , such as bank statements from the last three months or a letter from an employer, to ensure travellers can support themselves during their stay in Costa Rica.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: Travellers coming from regions at risk of Yellow Fever may need to provide proof of vaccination.
• Other Requirements: Additional requirements may apply depending on individual circumstances, and travellers are advised to check with the Costa Rica consulate for specific eligibility criteria and documentation needed for their visa application.

By meeting these eligibility criteria and fulfilling the requirements , travellers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process when applying for a tourist visa to Costa Rica.

Several advantages are involved when considering applying for a tourist visa to Costa Rica, making it an attractive option for travellers.

✅ Extended Stay: With a tourist visa, travellers can extend their stay in Costa Rica beyond the typical visa -exempt period, allowing for more time to explore the country’s stunning landscapes , vibrant culture, and diverse attractions .

✅ Flexibility: A tourist visa provides flexibility in planning your trip, allowing you to choose when to enter and depart Costa Rica within the visa validity period.

✅ Peace Of Mind: By securing a tourist visa in advance, travellers can avoid any last-minute complications or uncertainties at the border, ensuring a smoother and stress-free entry process .

✅ Legal Compliance: Having a tourist visa ensures that travellers comply with Costa Rica’s immigration regulations, enhancing their overall travel experience and minimising the risk of facing penalties or immigration issues during their stay.

✅ Opportunity For Cultural Immersion: With an extended stay afforded by the tourist visa, travellers can immerse themselves more deeply in Costa Rica’s rich culture, language, and way of life, creating memorable and meaningful experiences .

✅ Enhanced Travel Planning: By knowing they have the necessary visa to enter Costa Rica, travellers can confidently plan and book accommodations , activities, and transportation, optimising their travel itinerary.

 Overall, obtaining a tourist visa in Costa Rica offers travellers several advantages , from extended stays to greater flexibility and peace of mind, ensuring a rewarding and memorable travel experience in this charming destination.

With the final page of this guide turned, you’re now prepared to navigate the tourist visa process for Costa Rica, setting the stage for an adventure of a lifetime. Remember, this visa is your key to discovering the unparalleled beauty, biodiversity, and warm hospitality that Costa Rica is renowned for.

Pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to immerse yourself in experiences that will fill your soul with Pura Vida. The adventure begins now.

Discover Paradise!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Types Of Visas In Costa Rica
• Tax Refund In Costa Rica
• Temporary Residence In Costa Rica

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Costa Rica Entry, Transit and Exit Requirements

All people above 18 years of age entering Costa Rica by air, sea or land are required to carry a valid passport along with other travel and health required documents upon arrival at a Costa Rican international airport, harbor or at a pedestrian border crossing point of entry in Nicaragua or Panama. Children under 18 may travel with a joint passport with their parents, legal guardians or travel companion.

The travel and health documentation requirements vary depending on the country that issued your passport. So please select the name of the country that issued your passport below to find out exactly what documents you will need to enter Costa Rica.

Please note that requirements for proof of COVID-19 vaccination or travel medical insurance and a health pass are not required, if you enter Costa Rica after April 1, 2022.

Required Travel and Health Documents for U.S. Adults and Minors

Yellow fever vaccination.

The yellow fever vaccine is required if you depart from any yellow fever high-risk country. The high-risk countries are:

In South America:

Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Guyana and Venezuela

Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Sudan

You do not need yellow fever vaccination if:

• You have only been in transit at airports, seaports or land boarder of high-risk countries
• You have been in one of the high-risk countries and stayed in a different country for at least six calendar days before entering Costa Rica and have not developed the disease
• Your yellow fever vaccination was deferred due to contraindications. You must show a medical opinion supported by a health institution of the country where you live
• You are under 9 months old
• You have severe allergy to eggs, immunosuppression and thymic disease shown in your medical history.
• You are over 60 years old, pregnant, lactating, or have a family history of adverse events associated with vaccination against yellow fever, hypersensitivity to gelatin and asymptomatic HIV infection with laboratory verification of the immune system function and holding a medical assessment of the pros and cons of vaccination

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VISAS, RESIDENCES, PERMITS

1. Tourist Visa

2. Provisional Visa (student, teacher, resident, etc) 3. Requirements for Temporary Residence in Costa Rica 

4. Requirements for Permanent Residence in Costa Rica 5. Yellow Fever Vaccine  

  1. Tourist Visa

Not all people who wish to travel to Costa Rica need a tourist visa; this will depend on your nationality , purpose of visit, country of residence and duration of stay. Visa requirements are based on international agreements or treaties. However,  the visa does not guarantee entry to Costa Rica and, as in the United States, this depends on the immigration officer upon arrival. Information about requirements and visa application form please click here.

Please consider the following information:

1. US nationals do not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 180 days.  (Either to return to your country or to go to another country). US passport must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica. As a tourist US nationals cannot stay more than 180 days. For a stay longer than 180 days a residence permit must be established.

2.Other nationals might not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. To verify all entry requirements according to your nationality please see the following link  nationalities .  

3. Please see the following link for information of all Consulates in the United States Consulate of their jurisdiction .

4. Please visit our FAQ section ; there, you will find information that might be useful for your trip to Costa Rica.

2. Provisional Visa (student, teacher, resident, etc) : 

For information click here

3. Requirements for temporary residence in Costa Rica

4. Requirements for permanent residence in Costa Rica

5. Yellow Fever Vaccine

If you will be traveling to Costa Rica from South America and/or sub-Saharan Africa, you will need theYELLOW FEVER VACCINE. The countries considered at risk are:  Angola , Benin , Burkina Faso , Cameroon , Democratic Republic of Congo , Gabon , Gambia , Ghana , Guinea , Liberia , Nigeria , Sierra Leone , Sudan , Bolivia , Brazil , Colombia , Ecuador , Peru , Guyana and Venezuela . You can travel to Costa Rica ten days after the shot.  Exceptions

Costa Rica enjoys a culture of peace and democracy. See more

Costa Rica is one of the world's top tourism destinations. See more

Costa Rica’s literacy rate is 96%. See more .

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Costa Rica Visa for Tourists: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: September 8, 2023

Costa Rica visa requirements are fairly simple. Costa Rica EXEMPTS visa for most nationalities. For those who need a visa, Costa Rica offers visa EXEMPTION if they hold a valid visa from the United States, Canada or Schengen.

Days of entry depend on the passport but it’s usually at least 15 days to a maximum of 90 days.

Table of Contents

Costa rica visa requirements.

Visa EXEMPT passport holders

90-day entry.

• Czech Republic
• Hellenic Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Puerto Rico
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United States of America
• United Kingdom

30-day Entry

• Antigua and Barbuda
• El Salvador
• Marshall Islands
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Philippines
• Saint Christopher and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• Solomon Islands

Visa REQUIRED passport holders

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Brunei Darussalam
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo (Dem. Rep. of)
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• Papua New Guinea
• Republic of Congo
• Republic of Macedonia
• Russian Federation
• Sahrawi Arab Republic
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates

Visa EXEMPT for passport holders with a valid VISA from the United States/Canada/Schengen/Japan

• Multiple entry business(B1)/tourist(B2)/crew(D) visa from the United States
• Multiple entry tourist visa from Canada
• Multiple entry Schengen visa
• Visa must be stamped in the passport and must be valid for at least 1 day from the arrival date.
• Length of the stay may not be greater than the validity of the visa
• Length of the stay may not exceed 30 days
• Visa must be stamped in the passport and must be valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date.
• Work/student visa must be stamped in the passport and must be valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date.
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months
• Permanent residents must have their residency card (or green card) and must be valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE When I traveled to Costa Rica for the first time, I used my United States visa. I was given a 30-day entry. The second time, I used my Canadian multiple-entry tourist visa. I was given only a 15-day entry. In my opinion, it’s easier to get a 30-day entry with a US visa than with other visas (Canadian/Schengen/Japan multiple entry).

Immigration and Customs

Some airlines do not let you check in online if you need a visa to travel to the destination country. If your airline lets you check in online, make sure to arrive at the gate a bit early and see the airline staff. They have to go through the visa requirements again, verify your passport/visa and issue a new boarding pass. So, make sure you account for this additional time.

When you arrive in San José, you will be asked a few questions by immigration and customs officials. Questions would be mostly on where you are coming from, how long the trip is and what you will be doing on this trip.

As always, carry a copy of your return ticket and hotel/hostel booking. Immigration officials sometimes insist on seeing a copy of the return tickets.

All tourists must pay exit tax before leaving Costa Rica. Pay the exit tax before going into the security or check-in line. If you go to the airline counter or security first, you will be sent back to pay the exit tax.

The exit tax is $29 USD. You can pay in cash (USD) and they give you change if you do not have the exact change.

Stop by the airline counter to get yourself verified for the exit tax payment if you have checked in online. They usually have to put a stamp on your boarding pass that you paid the exit tax.

If you are returning back to the US from Costa Rica, there is a good chance that most of the passengers on the plane are US passport holders. In that case, there will not be anyone in the visitors’ line or everyone will go through the citizens’ line. Questions from CBP officials would be mostly on where you are coming from, how was the vacation, what did you do in Costa Rica, etc.

Costa Rica is a must-visit country for everyone. Costa Rica visa requirements are fairly simple. Visa is EXEMPT for most nationalities. Those who need a visa are also EXEMPT if they hold a valid visa from the US, Canada or Schengen.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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• Enter Costa Rica
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• Required Documents

Required Documents to Enter Costa Rica

This is a tricky question as the regulations have changed several times without notice over the last few years.  Therefore, we recommend that you visit the Costa Rica Embassy website for exact details.

Free Vacation Planning

The short answer is: You will need the following documents to enter Costa Rica:

1. A passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival to Costa Rica.

2. An airline ticket in your name to leave Costa Rica within 90 days of your arrival date.

Citizens of the United States, Canada and most European countries are not required to have a visa to visit Costa Rica.

Visit the Costa Rica Embassy website for your specific country .

You will be required to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are traveling from any of the following countries: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Guyana, and Venezuela.

Once in Costa Rica, you are required to carry your passport or a copy of it which includes the complete photo and data page as well as the visa stamp page.

Unsure of what to do? Let us make you a free custom trip plan!

• Tips for travelers
• Planning Your Trip

Tips for travel to Costa Rica

We want you to get to know every corner of our beautiful country, travel like a local, enjoy and be safe, having in mind the following recommendations:.

Some travelers require a visa to visit Costa Rica, so check the list of countries before you buy your ticket and verify the entry requirements according to the country where your passport was issued.

Costa Rica is a place where nature always rules and the adventure awaits, just remember:

• Book tours offered by authorized travel agencies
• Always check the local weather conditions and forecasts before you take a tour.
• Make sure the tour guide provides you the safety instructions and the activity´s regulation before starting the tour.
• Ensure the company has the operating permit of the Ministry of Health, insurance policies and certified tour guides.

Going on adventure safely

Tips for rafting & kayak, enjoy the zip line.

Live exhilarating adventures in any of our rivers like Sarapiquí, Río Peñas Blancas, Balsa, Río Toro, Pacuare, Savegre, Río Reventazón and Naranjo. Always wear a life vest, helmet and use an oar. Wear protective gear: waterproof shoes, tennis shoes or similar, shorts, shirt, or bathing suit, as well as sunscreen. Bring a towel, clothing and shoes to change after the tour. The minimum age varies according to the type of tour, the season, the river´s level and the policies of the company. Generally, 8 years old is the minimum age for the tour. It is important for you to know how to swim. Avoid bringing anything of value. Companies will provide an "Acknowledgement of Risk and Release of Liability" waiver for you to read, fill out and sign. Be sure that you receive safety instructions from the tour guide, before and during the tour. The maximum weight allowed per person is 135 kg or 300 lbs.

How fast can you go on a zip line? Up to 90 miles? You must check it out!!! Be sure that the guides give the necessary instruction before starting such as the braking system, how to situate yourself along the cables, knee-bending, etc. Check that the harness, helmet, and security cable are properly in place before pushing off. Ziplining is permitted for 6 years old and up, with a minimum weight of 48.5 lbs. (22 kg) and a height of 4.75 ft (1.45 m). Weight should not exceed 300 lbs. (135 kg), and height, 7ft. (2.15 meters).

Live the adrenaline on four wheels! Remember to wear a helmet, appropriate clothing, eye protection, and preferably boots and gloves. Four wheelers are not to be ridden by minors under 16 years old. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking on slippery surfaces. Try to travel in groups, accompanied by an experienced tour guide, using the necessary communication equipment. In Costa Rica, it is prohibited to ride four wheelers along the beach or heavy trafficked roads. Avoid dangerous or sandy slopes.

& Climbing

Horseback riding.

Hundreds of waterfalls are waiting for you! Remember to check local weather conditions and forecasts before going rappelling and before the climb. Wear comfortable and durable shoes, light-weight clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent. Be sure to bring along the necessary equipment and secure it before starting the excursion.

Ride in the most beautiful landscapes and mountains! Don´t forget to wear a helmet, long pants, durable shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent. Avoid shouts or sudden movements near the horse, as you could startle it. Be alert along the trail and enjoy the ride.

Biking through the Ruta de los Conquistadores is one big challenge! When you go biking, before setting out, become familiar with the route, type of slopes and necessary equipment. Wear the proper equipment like helmet, knee pads, shin guards, elbow pads, gloves, reflective clothes or vest, and bring a small tool kit. Check the bike condition before setting out. It is recommended to ride in groups with an experienced tour guide.

Sport Fishing Tips

Hiking essentials.

Check the weather and ocean conditions before setting out. Everybody on board must wear a life vest. Make sure the boat has a first aid kit on board. Before casting your line into the water, make sure there is no one behind you. Protective gloves are recommended. Wear a cap or brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, light-weight clothes, and appropriate footwear to protect your feet against sharp objects and slipping. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other types of drugs while on the boat. Always fish with someone who is experienced in the sport. Request the name of the location or the nearest town for guidance in case of an emergency.

You can´t miss the waves and cool waters; just remember to always stay alert about ocean conditions since they are dynamic and constantly changing. Avoid surfing in ocean conditions that are beyond your skill level. If you are a beginner, look for areas to surf with few people around. If surf lessons are offered in the area, make sure an expert give them. Don´t leave your belongings unattended at the beach. Use sunscreen. On some beaches, there may be crocodiles, so just ask people around before surfing.

Costa Rica is full of amazing hikes and adventures so be sure to back a good pair of walking shoes. Thoroughly enjoy your time while feeling comfortable! Wear light-weight clothes, cap or brimmed hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. Bring snacks and water. Check local weather conditions and forecasts before the hike and bring a poncho. If you need information regarding the trail ask a professional tour guide or a local. Avoid hiking in virgin forests and unmapped shortcuts. Let someone know about your route and estimated time of return. If you are traveling in a group, stay together on the same trail. Avoid touching or eating fruits, and tasting plants that you are unfamiliar with. In Costa Rica, it is prohibited to remove and sell wild plants or animal species.

Infographics for your safety

Inoculations

The health care system in Costa Rica is very good, both private and public. Although, basic vaccines for hepatitis A and B are recommended, as well as rabies and tetanus, before making the trip.

The government of Costa Rica requires the yellow fever vaccine certificate when traveling from countries in Africa (Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan), Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Brazil and the Republic of Guyana. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before the start date of your trip.

Solo Female Travel

We want you to enjoy exploring the beauty and culture of our country. And if you are traveling alone, please take the following precautions:

• Use official transportation only.
• Avoid walking, jogging, or sightseeing alone in secluded areas, especially at night.
• Do not share the details of your itinerary on social media or with strangers.
• Understand the risks of traveling alone and being with people you do not know.
• You can trust the police. They are here to help you.
• Always keep in touch with your family and friends.
• In case of emergency or suspicious behavior, dial 9-1-1.

Imagine you find yourself running low on bottled water and your only source is the water from the tap. You’re in luck! The tap water in Costa Rica is completely drinkable.

The biggest meal of the day in Costa Rica is lunch. Make lunch the main meal of your day and save your money for more adventures. Head to a soda (a small, locally owned cafe) or the local market for the freshest and most authentic cuisine. It is easy to find restaurants, sodas, cafes, bistros, and bakeries. The cuisine is quite extensive and includes both national and international options. In restaurants and hotels, 13% Value Added Tax and a 10% tip are included in the final price; however, if you are more than happy with the service and want to leave a gratuity, it will be welcome.

An unlocked cell phone will work in Costa Rica. But remember to call your wireless provider before you go to add global roaming capabilities to your plan. You can also buy a SIM prepaid card and use your unlocked cell phone in Costa Rica. Find SIM cards at the Kolbi (the national telecommunications company) booth at the airport, or in any telephone company store around, such as Claro and Movistar. A local line is not required to dial 9-1-1 just in case of emergency.

Traveling on a budget? No problem. Costa Rica has a ton a things to do for travelers on almost any budget:

• The colón is the currency of Costa Rica.
• US$ dollars and major credit cards are widely accepted.
• Exchange money only at banks and approved change offices. Check exchange rate here
• Bank transactions require a valid passport (not a copy nor a picture).
• ATMs are located throughout the country. Some of them remain closed from 11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Remember not to flash your cash.
• Sales tax or Value Added Tax (VAT) is 13%. It is included in the final price of every service or product purchase.
• The departure tax should be included in most of the airline tickets. For those flight tickets where it is duly stipulated that they do not include the departure tax, you must pay $29 per person, either in dollars, colones (local currency), credit or debit card.

It’s always best to travel light

When you’re headed to Costa Rica, travel light. If there’s a way to avoid checking baggage, do it. Play it safe and carry on. You’ll be able to take advantage of hotel wash rooms and laundromats on your journey and the less you have to keep up with, the better. If you are checking baggage, remember to weigh bags before you get to the airport. Try to pack only what is necessary, cool clothes that are easy to wash and dry, since airlines and tour operators have weight restrictions on luggage, and you will probably move from one place to another. Include in your luggage all the medication you may need if you have a medical condition, since some medications in Costa Rica require a certified prescription.

We want you to have an incredible time exploring Costa Rica safely:

• Always take care of all your belongings and valuables, even when traveling by bus.
• Carry your backpack in front of you.
• Avoid unsolicited help from strangers.
• Avoid walking in isolated places and places without lighting.
• Check your map and mobile phone in secure areas.

Keeping safe on the road

Driving a car in Costa Rica gives you the freedom to navigate the beautiful landscape at your leisure. But there are a few things to keep in mind before you begin your adventure.

• If you experience a mechanical issue or a flat tire avoid stopping in lonely places and don’t accept unsolicited help from strangers. It is better to call the Rent-a-Car or dial 9-1-1 to request help.
• Don’t leave any valuables unattended in your car – such as credit cards, cash, jewelry, or your passport. Use public parking lot with surveillance.
• Use a GPS or a GPS navigation app. It’ll save time and prove convenient when exploring. Just make sure you have a chip or an international data plan!
• The terrain can get more adventurous depending on where you choose to go. So keep that in mind when renting your vehicle.
• Verify the condition of the car and its required safety equipment (warning triangles, reflective vests, lug nut wrench, spare tire and a fire extinguisher).
• When renting the car, read the contract thoroughly to understand what is covered and what is not. Ask for details of car policies and insurance. Be aware of all the details about the insurance policies.

Looking for a place to stay?

Mountain Lodge? All inclusive hotels? Luxury? Mountain and beach? Cozy cabins for a romantic outing or honeymoon? A hostel maybe? And more difficult is deciding among the hundreds of lodging options that Costa Rica offers you, and a wide variety for all budgets

• No matter which one you choose, when booking a hotel ask for a written confirmation of the service and cancelation policy.
• Do not give any information about your debit or credit card over the phone.
• Outlets are 110 V, with standard US two prong plugs. Use the hotel’s safe-deposit box.
• When you go on a tour close to your hotel, bring a copy of your passport.
• Ask the front desk for the safest routes and means of transportation, especially at nighttime.

When you’re headed on vacation, the idea is to keep it as stress-free as possible. Pay attention to the little things to avoid any snags. BRING THE RIGHT SHOES! There are a ton of fun things to do in Costa Rica and you don’t want your footwear to limit you or give you blisters. A pair of sandals and some decent sneakers should do fine. If you plan on doing some serious hiking or climbing, consider some heavier duty options.

Feel The Sand

• Costa Rica is a year-round destination! Go get a tan, go surfing and walk on the beach, but don't leave your belongings alone when you do.
• Ask locals or surfers about the beach conditions and about rip currents.
• If someone is at risk, and you haven't been trained in first aid, seek for help.
• When traveling with friends, don't joke around in a way that may put your life or others at risk.
• Keep children, elderly people or people with physical limitations close to you, and avoid swimming alone.

Local Language

Many Costa Ricans speak English quite well, but remember the native tongue is rooted in Spanish. When you’re planning a trip, we suggest brushing up on your Español. Download some audio lessons on your mobile device and listen while traveling or keep a pocket translator handy. Chat with the locals–maybe they can suggest an excursion you had not planned on!

Planning your Trip to Costa Rica

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Planning to visit Costa Rica ? Lucky you! A whopping wealth of unforgettable experiences await in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. But before you start scheduling all those trips to national parks, beaches and volcanoes, read on to find out how to get a Costa Rica visa, and whether you need one in the first place. 

• Do I need a visa to go to Costa Rica?
• Can I get help with getting the visa?

How quickly will I get the visa?

How long is a costa rica visa valid, how much does a costa rica visa cost, can i extend my visa while in costa rica, travel ideas for costa rica, created by local experts.

12 days  / from 2980 USD

Costa Rica: Coast to Coast

From paradise beaches, scenic narrow waterways and magical rainforests, Costa Rica has much to offer. Head east and discover the tranquil Caribbean Sea, head west for the tumultuous Pacific Ocean and surfer’s paradise.

10 days  / from 1825 USD

Discover Northern Costa Rica

This self drive itinerary allows you to explore the Central and Northern highlights of Costa Rica: from the active volcano Arenal to the cloud forest of Monteverde and the beaches of Guanacaste with plenty of surf & yoga - discover why they call it the land of Pura Vida - pure life!

10 days  / from 1440 USD

A self drive Caribbean adventure

It's time to discover Costa Rica's Caribbean coast in your own rental car: From Boca Pacuare, where the turtles come to lay their eggs, to the unique culture of Cahuita and the beaches of Puerto Viejo! Your trip will finish in Turrialba, home of the main archaeological monument in our country.

Do I need a visa to go to Costa Rica? 

Visiting Costa Rica as a tourist for under 90 days? You don’t need a visa — entry to Costa Rica is allowed for tourists from all countries.

To enter Costa Rica as a tourist, you need a valid passport, plus proof of your intent to exit the country before your entry stamp expires, which is usually within 90 days.

Note that your country of origin determines how long you can stay in Costa Rica as a tourist. Note also that while granting stays of up to 90 days is standard, immigration officials determine the duration of your stay.

In some cases, the official might also ask that you provide evidence of economic solvency for your stay in Costa Rica.

Check the Costa Rica tourist board site and the official Costa Rica government website for details.

UK citizens

British nationals don’t need a visa to enter Costa Rica. Rather, you can stay as a tourist visitor for up to 90 days, subject to fulfilling the requirements outlined above.

US citizens

As for UK nationals, US nationals don’t need a visa to Costa Rica for visits up to 90 days, and the same requirements apply. 

That is to say, you need a passport that’s valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica. You also need evidence of onward travel, or a return ticket within the 90-day period.

Happily, tourists don't need a Costa Rica visa for visits up to 90 days © Harry Collins Photography/Shutterstock

If you're planning to visit Costa Rica for purposes other than tourism, or want to visit as a tourist for longer than 90 days, consult the official government website. 

There you can check the requirements depending on the purpose of your visit, and how long you want to stay.

Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Can I get help with getting the visa? 

If you think you might require a visa, it’s best to consult the official government website or contact the Costa Rica embassy in your country.

Even if you don’t require a visa — for example, as a tourist planning to stay for up to 90 days — you could further lighten your planning load by browsing our customisable Costa Rica itineraries , and talking to our local Costa Rica travel experts .

La Fortuna waterfall, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

How long it takes to obtain a Costa Rica visa will depend on what kind of visa you require, which in turn depends on the purpose of your visit, and how long you’d like to stay.

Consult the official government website for details. You need to scroll down for English language information covering every kind of visa, from those required for prospective students, volunteers, academics or researchers, to artists' permits.

Playa Blanca, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

As above, how long a Costa Rica visa is valid depends on what kind of visa you require and apply for. Consult the official government website to check your specific circumstances.

Again, when it comes to how much a Costa Rica visa costs, that depends on what kind of visa you require and apply for. Consult the official government website .

Scarlet macaw, Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

It is possible to extend your visa while in Costa Rica. You'll need to complete a form and submit it in person to the Central Migration Offices in La Uruca, San José , or at a regional migration office.

Be sure to read up on full details of the visa extension process , and apply in good time.

Tortuga island, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in Costa Rica .

Daunted by the prospect of planning? Fear not! Our customisable Costa Rica itineraries and local Costa Rica travel experts are on hand to inspire and help.

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2023 Costa Rica Visa Entry Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the visa entry requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the tourist visa entry requirements for Costa Rica, including information on visa-exempt countries, visa requirements, and important travel documents.

Visa-Exempt Countries

Costa Rica maintains a visa exemption policy for citizens of many countries, allowing them to enter the country without obtaining a visa in advance. The following countries are visa-exempt for tourism purposes and they may remain in the country for up to 90 days:

Visa Exempt with a 30 day visa

The following list of countries are also visa exempted to enter the country without obtaining a visa in advance. However, instead of the 90-day visa these countries are given 30-day visa which can be renewed in Costa Rica.

A visa is required for these countries

Group three on the visa list is for a category of travelers who are required to enter Costa Rica with a consular visa. The period to enter Costa Rica: Once the visa is authorized, it will be valid for up to sixty days from the passport stamp. This indicates that once the consular visa is approved, the traveler has a period of up to sixty days to enter Costa Rica, starting from the date of the visa stamp in the passport.  Those that apply in this category must ensure that their passport have a minimum validity of 180 days from the date of entry into Costa Rica.

With this type of visa the initial maximum stay allowed for visa holders is thirty days. However, it can be extended up to a total of ninety days. The extension must be requested within the authorized period.

These countries have restricted visa

The fourth group on the list has a restricted visa so they will need to apply for a visa at a Costa Rican Consular office abroad. Once granted it allows the traveler to enter Costa Rica and stay for a period of 30 days which is renewable up to the maximum of 90 days.

AFGHANISTAN

MYANMAR (BURMA)

SYRIAN ARAB REPUBLIC

DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF KOREA (NORTH KOREA)

TURKMENISTAN

The following countries have additional requirements so be sure to review them prior to travel. EL SALVADOR, RUSSIA, NICARAGUA, CHINA,, COLOMBIA, AND VENEZUELA

• REPUBLIC OF EL SALVADOR

According to the reciprocal Administrative Agreement between the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners of the Republic of El Salvador and the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners of the Republic of Costa Rica, signed in San Jose on April 23, 2008, nationals of El Salvador are allowed to enter with a valid passport until its expiration date. The length of stay granted by the immigration control officer shall not exceed the passport’s validity period.

• RUSSIAN FEDERATION

According to the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Costa Rica and the Government of the Russian Federation on the Conditions for the Elimination of Visa Formalities for Mutual Travel of Nationals of the Republic of Costa Rica and Nationals of the Russian Federation, dated February 5, 2019, nationals of the Russian Federation can stay for up to 90 calendar days from the day of entry.

III. REPUBLIC OF NICARAGUA

• Nicaraguan nationals must have a passport with a minimum validity of 90 calendar days. The legal stay period for Nicaraguan nationals is up to 90 calendar days.
• Nicaraguan citizens may apply for a single-entry transit visa or double-entry transit visa at the Consulates of Costa Rica in Nicaragua and Panama, provided their travel is for commercial or work purposes, including agricultural activities, domestic employment, construction, private security, and care for the elderly, disabled individuals, and minors.

To apply for a transit visa, the following requirements must be met: A. Transit visa application form. B. Payment receipt for consular fees, as applicable. C. Travel tickets indicating the dates of entry and departure from Costa Rica. In the case of a double-entry visa, the second entry ticket must be dated within 90 days. D. Letter from the employer indicating the duration of employment, job responsibilities, and salary. If the employer is a legal entity, a copy of the document demonstrating the legal existence of the company must be attached. Independent workers must provide income certification from a Certified Public Accountant. E. Certification confirming the absence of criminal records for the person applying for the transit visa. F. Passport in good condition with a minimum validity of 90 calendar days from the date of entry into Costa Rica.

• Dependents of the individuals mentioned in the previous section who are Nicaraguan nationals and have a first-degree relationship with the person responsible for their maintenance (spouse, parents, children up to the age of 25) may also apply for a transit visa. Proof of the relationship must be provided with a suitable document issued no more than six months prior, unless the document explicitly states an expiration date.
• Visa applications not covered in this section will be governed by the guidelines for regular tourist visas established in the Regulations for the Granting of Entry Visas to Costa Rica.
• Entry into Costa Rica with a transit visa is valid by air or land through immigration control posts duly authorized by the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners.
• Holders of a transit visa have a maximum period of 48 hours to transit through Costa Rica. The first entry into Costa Rica must occur within thirty days from the date of visa issuance. In the case of a double-entry transit visa, the second entry to Costa Rica must occur within 90 days from the date of the first entry.
• REPUBLIC OF NICARAGUA.
• The minimum validity period for Nicaraguan passports shall be 90 calendar days, and the legal stay period for Nicaraguan individuals shall be up to 90 calendar days.
• Nicaraguan citizens may apply for a single-entry transit visa or a double-entry transit visa at the Consulates of Costa Rica in Nicaragua and Panama, provided that their travel is for commercial or labor reasons, including agricultural activities, domestic employment, construction, private security, and care for the elderly, disabled individuals, and minors.

To apply for this transit visa, the following requirements must be submitted:

• Transit visa application form. B. Proof of payment for consular fees as applicable. C. Travel tickets indicating the dates of entry and exit from Costa Rica; in the case of the double-entry visa, the ticket for the second entry must show a date within the following 90 days. D. Letter from the employer indicating the duration of employment, job functions, and salary. In the case of an employer being a legal entity, a copy of a document demonstrating the legal existence of the company must be attached. Self-employed individuals must provide income certification from a Certified Public Accountant. E. Certification demonstrating that the person applying for the transit visa does not have a criminal record. F. Passport in good condition with a minimum validity of 90 calendar days from the date of entry into Costa Rica.
• Nicaraguan individuals dependent on the persons mentioned in the previous section, who have a first-degree relationship with the person responsible for their support (spouse, parents, children up to the age of 25), may also apply for a transit visa. To prove this relationship, suitable documentation issued no more than six months prior must be provided, unless the document explicitly states an expiration date.

Visa applications not covered in this section shall be governed by the guidelines for ordinary tourist visas established in the Regulations for the Granting of Entry Visas to Costa Rica.

• Entry into Costa Rica with a transit visa is valid by air or land through immigration checkpoints duly authorized by the General Directorate of Migration and Immigration.
• The holder of a transit visa has a maximum period of 48 hours to transit through Costa Rica. The first entry into Costa Rica must be made within thirty days from the date of visa issuance. In the case of a double-entry transit visa, the period to make the second entry into Costa Rica is 90 days from the date of the first entry.

Issuance of two visas for Nicaraguan individuals.

• The issuance of two consular visas is authorized according to the procedure established at the Consulate of Costa Rica in Managua, Nicaragua, for Nicaraguan individuals who justify the need to enter the country twice.
• The cost of consular visas is determined by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship, and the cost of two visas must be paid.
• PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS
• Nationals of Hong Kong and Macao holding valid British or Portuguese passports will receive the same treatment as nationals from visa-exempt countries, meaning they do not require a visa to enter the country, and their stay is permitted for up to ninety days. However, nationals of Hong Kong and Macao without the mentioned travel document will require a consular visa, and the corresponding provisions of the People’s Republic of China will be applied to them.
• Chinese nationals holding public affairs passports do not require an entry visa to the national territory.
• Visa applications for minors of Chinese nationality will be processed exclusively by the Restricted Visa Commission. These applications must be submitted exclusively by parents or by those who can convincingly demonstrate that they are the legal representative or have custody, upbringing, and education responsibilities for the minor. The process for these applications will follow the guidelines established for minors in Chapter Six, Articles 125 and onwards, of the Regulations for the Granting of Entry Visas to Costa Rica, Executive Decree No. 36626-G. The exceptions for entry into the national territory, established in Section II, also apply to minors of Chinese nationality.
• Chinese nationals of legal age carrying passports issued in Beijing or Shanghai may exceptionally enter the country under the No Visa category. The duration of their stay will correspond to the acquired tour, not exceeding thirty days. Individuals entering the country under this exception will not have the possibility to change their immigration category or subcategory.
• REPUBLIC OF COLOMBIA
• Passport validity and legal stay period. The minimum validity period for Colombian passports shall be 90 calendar days, and the legal stay period for Colombian individuals shall be up to 90 calendar days.
• Multiple visas for Colombian entrepreneurs. In accordance with Articles 46 and 58 of the General Law on Migration and Immigration, and Article 70, Clause 5 of Executive Decree 36626-G, Regulations for the Granting of Visas, the General Directorate and the Consulate of Costa Rica in Bogota, Colombia, may receive applications and grant visas for temporary resident status and their dependents, as well as special categories, multiple tourism visas, and business visas to foreign individuals of Colombian nationality requested by established companies in the country.

The requirements and procedures for their authorization shall be the same as stipulated in Article 150 and onwards of the Regulations for the Granting of Visas. These visas must be stamped at the Visa Unit or at the Consulate of Costa Rica in Bogota, Colombia, according to the capacity of both institutions, with the costs as stipulated in the General Law on Migration and Immigration.

The multiple visa for Colombian entrepreneurs may be granted for a period of up to 5 years. The procedure for submitting requirements will be digital according to the guidelines issued for such processing.

• Multiple tourism visas for Colombian individuals. In accordance with Article 58 of the General Law on Migration and Immigration, the General Directorate of Migration and Immigration allows the receipt of applications and the granting of multiple entry visas to foreign individuals of Colombian nationality as long as they do not earn salaries or fees within the country and do not require residing in national territory to carry out their activities.

To apply for the multiple visa, applicants must provide the requirements established in Article 171 of the Regulations for the Granting of Visas. These visas must be stamped at the Visa Unit or at the Consulate of Costa Rica in Bogota, Colombia, according to the capacity of both institutions, with the costs as stipulated in the General Law on Migration and Immigration.

Contact the Costa Rica Department of Immigration

For more details you can visit the Costa Rica Department of Immigration website.

You can download the official publication of the visa list here :

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Exploring Costa Rica Visa Categories: Key Information & Guide

When planning a trip or considering a move to Costa Rica, it is important to understand the various visa categories available and their specific requirements. This article serves as a guide, providing key information on exploring Costa Rica visa categories . Whether you’re interested in a short-term tourist visa or a long-term residency option, this article will outline the different types of visas, their respective requirements, and other important information to help you navigate the Costa Rican immigration process.

One of the most common visa categories for travelers is the Costa Rica Tourist Visa, which allows for a maximum stay of 30 days. It is important to note that working with a tourist visa is not permitted. To obtain a tourist visa, you will need to provide the necessary documentation and pay the required fees. Extensions may be possible, but it is advised to consult with immigration experts to ensure a smooth process.

Aside from the tourist visa, there are other visa categories and residency options available in Costa Rica. This includes work permits, study visas, and various types of residency options. Each category has its own specific requirements, and it is essential to familiarize yourself with them before applying. Consulting with immigration experts can help you understand the details and make the application process more efficient.

General immigration requirements in Costa Rica include submitting the required documentation, paying the appropriate fees, and adhering to the specified processing times. It is crucial to follow these steps accurately to avoid any delays or complications. Understanding the immigration process and requirements is essential for a successful transition to Costa Rica.

When exploring the various visa categories and residency options in Costa Rica , it is recommended to work with immigration experts, such as Costa Rica Immigration Experts (CRIE). Their expertise can provide you with the necessary guidance and support throughout the application process. For more information or assistance, you may contact CRIE at [insert contact information here].

• Costa Rica offers various visa categories, including tourist visas, work permits, study visas, and residency options.
• The Costa Rica Tourist Visa allows for a maximum stay of 30 days, with the possibility of extensions.
• Working with a tourist visa in Costa Rica is not permitted.
• Other visa categories and residency options have specific requirements that need to be fulfilled.
• Consulting with immigration experts can help make the application process smoother and more efficient.

Costa Rica Tourist Visa: Entry for 30 Days

If you are planning to visit Costa Rica for a short vacation or tourism purposes, the Costa Rica Tourist Visa is the most common visa category to consider. This visa allows entry for a maximum of 30 days, providing ample time to explore the beautiful beaches, rainforests, and vibrant culture of this Central American country.

To obtain a Costa Rica Tourist Visa, you will need to submit certain documentation and pay the required fees. The necessary documents typically include a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a round-trip ticket or proof of onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. It is essential to ensure that your passport meets the entry requirements and has sufficient validity to avoid any issues upon arrival.

It is important to note that while the Costa Rica Tourist Visa allows for a short stay, it does not permit you to engage in any kind of employment during your visit. If you plan to work or study in Costa Rica, it is advisable to explore other visa categories that cater specifically to those purposes, such as work permits or study visas. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements for each category and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Other Visa Categories and Residency Options in Costa Rica

Aside from the tourist visa, Costa Rica offers several other visa categories and residency options for individuals looking to work, study, or live in the country. These options provide opportunities for foreigners to explore different aspects of Costa Rican life and contribute to the local economy and culture. Here are some of the key visa categories and residency options:

Work Permits in Costa Rica

Costa Rica provides work permits for those interested in pursuing employment opportunities within the country. These permits allow individuals to legally work and earn income in Costa Rica, contributing to the local workforce. To obtain a work permit, applicants must meet specific requirements and provide necessary documentation, including a valid job offer from a Costa Rican employer. Work permits are invaluable for individuals seeking long-term employment opportunities and career growth in Costa Rica.

Study Visas in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is renowned for its excellent educational institutions and programs. For those interested in pursuing academic or professional studies in the country, study visas are available. These visas allow individuals to enroll in educational programs, attend classes, and enhance their skills and knowledge. Obtaining a study visa requires meeting specific requirements, such as being accepted into a recognized educational institution in Costa Rica. Study visas open doors for international students to experience Costa Rican culture while pursuing their educational goals.

Residency Options in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers various residency options for individuals who wish to make the country their long-term home. These options include temporary residency, permanent residency, and categories such as rentista, pensionado, and inversionista. Each residency category has its own set of requirements and benefits. Temporary residency allows individuals to stay in Costa Rica for an extended period, while permanent residency offers the opportunity to live and work in the country indefinitely. Rentista, pensionado, and inversionista categories cater to individuals with specific financial qualifications and investments in Costa Rica. Residency options provide a pathway to fully immerse oneself in the Costa Rican way of life.

Navigating the immigration process in Costa Rica can be complex, but understanding the general requirements and guidelines is crucial for a successful visa application. Whether you are applying for a tourist visa, work permit, study visa, or residency option, there are certain steps and documentation that you must be aware of.

For all Costa Rica visa categories , applicants are required to submit a completed application form, a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, proof of financial solvency, and a recent passport-sized photograph. Additionally, applicants may need to provide specific documents according to the visa category they are applying for. These documents may include a return ticket, proof of accommodation, proof of enrollment in a study program, or a job offer letter.

It is important to note that visa processing times and fees vary depending on the visa category. It is advisable to check the official website of the Costa Rican embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on application fees and processing times.

Seeking the assistance of immigration experts, such as Costa Rica Immigration Experts (CRIE), can greatly simplify the visa application process. CRIE specializes in providing guidance and support to individuals navigating the Costa Rican immigration system. They can ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared correctly and submitted on time, increasing the chances of a successful visa application.

By familiarizing yourself with the different visa categories, understanding the requirements, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can navigate the Costa Rican immigration process with confidence. Plan ahead and gather all necessary documentation to ensure a seamless and efficient visa application experience.

In conclusion, gaining a thorough understanding of the visa categories and residency options in Costa Rica is essential for a smooth transition to the country. By working with experts like CRIE , you can make the process easier and ensure compliance with all immigration requirements.

When exploring Costa Rica visa categories , it is important to note that the Costa Rica Tourist Visa allows entry for a maximum of 30 days. Extending the visa is possible, but working with a tourist visa is not permitted. Therefore, it is crucial to plan your stay and visa requirements accordingly.

Costa Rica offers various other visa categories and residency options, including work permits and study visas. Each category has its own set of requirements, which must be met for a successful application. It is recommended to thoroughly research and understand the specific requirements for the visa category you are interested in.

When applying for any visa category, it is important to be aware of the necessary documentation, processing times, and fees involved. Compliance with immigration requirements is crucial, as any deviations can result in delays or even denials. Working with immigration experts, such as CRIE, can greatly facilitate the application process and ensure a seamless transition to Costa Rica.

Q: What is a Costa Rica Tourist Visa?

A: A Costa Rica Tourist Visa allows entry into the country for a maximum of 30 days for tourism purposes. It is a non-extendable visa, and working with a tourist visa is not permitted.

Q: Can I extend my Costa Rica Tourist Visa?

A: No, the Costa Rica Tourist Visa is non-extendable. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a different visa category.

Q: What are the requirements for a Costa Rica Tourist Visa?

A: The requirements for a Costa Rica Tourist Visa include a valid passport with at least six months validity, a return or onward ticket, proof of financial means to support your stay, and a completed visa application form. Additionally, you may be required to show proof of travel insurance coverage.

Q: Can I work with a Costa Rica Tourist Visa?

A: No, working with a Costa Rica Tourist Visa is not permitted. If you wish to work in Costa Rica, you will need to obtain a work permit or residency in an appropriate category.

Q: What are the other visa categories and residency options available in Costa Rica?

A: Other visa categories and residency options in Costa Rica include work permits, study visas, temporary residency, and permanent residency. Each category has its own specific requirements and limitations.

Q: What are the general immigration requirements for Costa Rica?

A: The general immigration requirements for Costa Rica include a valid passport, completed visa application forms, supporting documentation such as proof of financial means, and payment of applicable fees. Processing times and requirements may vary depending on the visa category.

Article by Glenn Tellier (Founder of CRIE and Grupo Gap)

See If You Qualify For Residency Today!

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Costa Rica set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Costa Rican Embassy in the UK . 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Costa Rica. 

Passport validity requirements  

To enter Costa Rica, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 1 day after the day you plan to leave. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements 

British nationals do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica. You may stay as a visitor for up to 180 days under a tourist visa waiver, although the exact period is at the discretion of the immigration officer on arrival.

If you plan to work, or stay for a longer period, you should check the requirements with the Costa Rican Embassy in the UK .    

If you overstay, the immigration authorities can fine you 100 US dollars for each month and refuse future applications to enter Costa Rica.

Airport tax 

When leaving the country by air, you may need to pay a departure tax of 29 US dollars. Most airlines include this in ticket prices. If you need to pay it, you can use cash or card. 

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Costa Rica guide .  

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate. 

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Costa Rica . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.  

Taking money into Costa Rica  

Declare cash, travellers cheques or goods if the value is 10,000 US dollars or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money or goods could be seized when you leave.   

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Embassy of Costa Rica

to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Visas, Residences and Permits

• Tourist Visas
• Consular Visas
• Restricted Visas
• Kinds of Residences
• Yellow Fever Vaccine

1.Tourist Visa

United Kingdom nationals do NOT need a visa to enter Costa Rica for tourism purposes and they can remain in the country for a maximum of 90 days.   Their passports should be valid for at least the duration of their stay and ideally for three months

Not all people wishing to travel to Costa Rica need a tourist visa. This will depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, country of residence and length of your stay. Visa requirements or exceptions are based in international treaties or agreements. Moreover, a visa does not guarantee your entry to Costa Rica; like the United Kingdom, this depends on the immigration officer upon arrival.

Though you may not need a visa, the following is still required to enter the country :

A passport must be valid for at least the duration of your stay and ideally for three months from the moment you enter Costa Rica. If you require a visa, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the moment of your entry.

NOTE: Some airlines and migration authorities require minimum passport validity of 6 months, based on dispositions of the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Proof of transportation ticket as either a return ticket or to continue to a third country.

Proof of sufficient monetary means to finance your tourist stay in the country.

Nationals of the following countries or territories do NOT need a tourist visa to enter Costa Rica and can remain in the country for a maximum of 90 days :

Nationals of the following countries or territories do NOT need a tourist visa to enter Costa Rica and can remain in the country for a maximum of 30 days :

If you are a national of a country not mentioned in the two previous groups, then you DO need a visa to enter Costa Rica.

Please call the office of the Embassy to the following number: 020 7629 3111.

For more information, please send an email to: [email protected]

If you wish to learn more, you can visit the next URL (information in English available): http://www.migracion.go.cr/extranjeros/visas.html

The individual applicant for a consular visa must personally present his/her physical documents directly to the Consulate. The counselors of the Costa Rican Consulate hold the direct authority to grant or deny the visa.

The documents you must present at the Consulate are as follows:

• A visa request letter addressed to the Costa Rican Consul containing the following details: Full name, passport number, country of residence, purpose of the trip, length of stay in Costa Rica, approximate place and date of entry and exit of the country, profession or trade, exact address in Costa Rica, date and place of birth of the applicant, fax number to receive notifications, date and signature.
• Passport or other travel document valid for at least six months, as well as a copy of the entire passport/travel document.
• Itinerary or tentative booking of round trip or continuation trip.
• Proof of sufficient monetary means to finance your stay in the country.
• Valid police records (certificate of delinquency). If this document is in another language, it must be translated to Spanish.
• The Consul might ask for additional documents to be issued in the country of origin of the applicant if they are fundamental for the analysis for the granting of the visa.
• Once all the required documents have been presented, the applicant must fill out the visa application form, which can be found in the website: www.migracion.go.cr . This document must be completed with legible and clear handwriting, without any markings or corrections.

To apply for a visa, please send an email to: [email protected]

A restricted visa is an authorization for entry to Costa Rica that nationals from the following countries must obtain, according to the Entry Guidelines of the country. This authorization is under the exclusive purview of the Restricted Visas and Refugee Commission.

This Commission determines both the permit of entry and the maximum amount of days that a particular foreigner may stay in Costa Rica. The nationals of the following countries or territories must apply for a restricted visa:

1. Send a visa request letter addressed to the Consul, written by the interested party, his/her relative resident in Costa Rica, or his/her representative, indicating his/her circumstances and his/her kinship relationship with the requested foreigner. The letter must also include the following regarding the foreigner applying for the visa.

Nationality

Profession or trade

• Purpose of trip
• Estimated length of the trip

Exact address in Costa Rica

• Estimated date of entry and exit of the country
• Costa Rican Consulate to which the visa authorization needs to be sent to, should the application be successful.

2. Copy of the legalized foreigner’s entire passport, with Consular authentication, and translated to Spanish. The passport must be valid for at least six months.

3. Copy of the identification document of the person requesting the foreigner. This document must be verified before an official of the Consulate or, if it is defected, an authenticated copy of said document.

4. Proof of economic solvency of the requesting party.

5. Proof of economic solvency and kinship of the requested foreigner.

6. Police records/Certificate of Delinquency from the country of origin of the requested foreigner, where it is clearly stated that he/she has not been convicted in his/her country of origin or in the one where she/he has lived for the last three years, for the crimes specified in article 61 of the Costa Rican Constitution. This document must be duly authenticated by the applicant’s Consulate, legalized, and translated to Spanish.

7. Certification issued by the competent authority of the country of origin of the requested foreigner that proves the relationship between the requesting and requested parties.

8. Single status certificate issued by the country of requested foreigner, legalized, authenticated by the Consulate, and translated to Spanish, for the cases where this document might be necessary.

4.Kinds of Residences

A residence is an authorization of temporary or permanen t stay in the country with freedom of employment within Costa Rica, an authorization usually related with professional work. There is many circumstances under which an applications for residence is valid, some of them being:

A. Special permit for students, volunteers, academics or researchers

Should you want to remain in Costa Rica as a student, volunteer, academic or researcher, you must request a provisional visa in the Consulate. For this, you must present the following documents:

Provisional visa request letter under the special category of student, academic, volunteer, or researcher that includes the following information regarding the applicant:

Passport number

Country of residence

Date and place of birth

Fax number to receive notifications

Date and signature

Birth certificate translated to Spanish with apostille.

Police records/Certificate of Delinquency translated to Spanish with apostille.

Original and copy of the entire passport or travel document. Please note that said document must be valid for at least six months.

Acceptance letter to a public or private educational institution recognized in Costa Rica that confirms the applicant as a student, academic, volunteer or researcher. This document must also include period of time the applicant is expected to remain in the institution.

Proof of sufficient monetary means to finance the applicant’s stay in the country.

Three passport sized pictures with light gray background.

Proof of payment for all corresponding fees

Once the corresponding authorities have verified you fulfill all the requisites, the Consulate will issue a provisional visa for entry to Costa Rica, and the applicant will receive the documents he/she must present in the General Directorate of Migration and Aliens in Costa Rica to continue with the process of registering under the special category of student, academic, volunteer, or researcher.

B. Temporary residence as Annuitants

Those people who wish to apply for a temporary residence in Costa Rica as annuitants must fulfill the following requirements before the Consulate:

Visa request letter in which the applicant indicates the reasons for his/her residence request. This letter must also include the following information regarding the applicant:

Nationality and age

Address or other means by which notifications can be sent

Original and copy of the entire passport or travel document. Please note that the document must be valid for at least six months.

Proof by means of official documents that, for a period not shorter than two years, the applicant will receive a stable and permanent income of at least two thousand five hundred dollars (US$2,500.00) a month, currency of the United States of America or its equivalent to the Costa Rican colon based on the exchange rate established by the Central Bank of Costa Rica. If the income is received from abroad, the documents must have an apostille.

Proof of payment of any required fees.

C. Temporary residence for retirees

Those people who wish to apply for a temporary residence in Costa Rica as retirees must fulfill the following requirements before the Consulate:

Proof by means of official documents that he/she has been granted a lifelong pension with a monthly payment of at least one thousand dollars (US$1,000.00), currency of the United States of America or its equivalent to the Costa Rican colon based on the exchange rate established by the Central Bank of Costa Rica. If the documents are issued abroad, they must have an apostille.

The translation of foreign documents to Spanish can be done through the services of official translators in the UK (in which case, the document must be translated before being apostilled) or in Costa Rica. The most important aspect is that the document is already translated with an apostille when presented at the General Directorate of Migration and Aliens.

Certifications must be valid and have been issued no more than six months ago.

If a person enters Costa Rica as a tourist and, during his/her legal stay, he/she presents a request of temporary residence directly to the General Directorate of Migration and Aliens, he/she will have to pay an additional fee of US$200 for the change in migration category.

D. Other migration categories (Spanish only)

• Temporary Residence for people married to a Costa Rican national
• Temporary Residence as a Specialized Independent Worker
• Temporary Residence as Worker in Relation of Dependency
• Temporary Residence as Scientist, Professional or Interns
• Temporary Residence as Technician
• Temporary Residence as Athlete
• Temporary Residence as Staff Correspondents and News Agencies

Costa Rican migration legislature considers working or studying permits as Special Categories .

Special Categories have important subgroups to be aware of, based on the characteristics of the activities that the foreign person will carry on in Costa Rica.

Given these circumstances, before you present your request for a work or study permit it is important that you become familiar with the recommendations given by the Ministry of Labour, which you can find in the following links:

• Special permit for students, volunteers, academics or researchers
• Special permit for workers

For more information please visit: http://www.migracion.go.cr/extranjeros/permisos.html (Spanish only)

6. Yellow Fever Vaccine

If you will be traveling to Costa Rica from South America and/or Sub-Saharan Africa you will need the YELLOW FEVER VACCINE . The countries considered at risk are:

You will be able to travel to Costa Rica ten days after you have received the shot.

EXCEPTIONS:

Any individual travelling to Costa Rica who has been in transit through the countries in the list above , whether in airports, sea ports, or land borders, will be exempt from having to get the yellow fever vaccine.

People who have been in countries at risk and that have spent at least six days in a non-risk country without developing symptoms before entering Costa Rica, will be exempt from having to get the yellow fever vaccine.

• In the case of people with contraindications for the Yellow Fever Vaccine and who are nationals of countries at risk, they will be exempt from having to get vaccine but will have to provide, before entering Costa Rican territory, a valid medical opinion supported by the health authority in the country from where they are from .

The Yellow Fever Vaccine will be mandatory for everyone except people with the following contraindications, typical in relation to said vaccine: people younger than 9 months, severe egg allergy, immunosuppression and thymic disease present or in their medical history.

• There must be a medical assessment of the pros and cons of vaccination on people with the following conditions: over 60 years of age, pregnancy, lactation, family history of adverse events associated with the yellow fever vaccine, hypersensitivity to gelatin and asymptomatic HIV infection, with laboratory verification of adequate immune system function.

Is Costa Rica Safe To Visit?

C osta Rica is a quaint country within Central America that borders Nicaragua and Panama. Although many travelers mistake it for one, Costa Rica is technically not an island. On the west side of the country is the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is located on the east. Costa Rica is an ideal location with a tropical climate and incredible natural beauty, alongside thriving biodiversity and vast landscapes that are quite impressive. This mountainous country is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

Travelers visiting the country will not have a dull moment. There is plenty for travelers to do in Costa Rica. Some of the top tourist attractions in the country include the Nicoya Peninsula, Ecotermales Hot Springs, Manuel Antonio National Park and Arenal Volcano. There are countless other natural attractions that travelers enjoy exploring. Although a lot of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions are naturally made, the country has metropolitan areas as well. Safety in metro areas can be somewhat questionable. This is especially true in situations where travelers face unfamiliar environments abroad. To establish whether or not Costa Rica is safe , we compiled all the important information on the country for potential visitors.

Best Travel Advisories

An important factor of traveling abroad safely is having information on the status of a potential travel destination. Travelers that are unsure about the safety level of their upcoming trip location should do their research. Seeking out reputable resources is wise so that travelers stay well informed. These are the top organizations that provide up to date safety information on travel destinations.

Crime Safety

The U.S. Department of State provides a well updated travel advisory. It has important information regarding the general safety of different countries and their regions. Costa Rica, for example, is categorized by the department of state as a level two destination. This means that travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling there. This caution is due to crime in the country. The types of crime are described in the safety and security portion of the travel advisory. Costa Rica’s tourism website is a good place to start for travelers with concerns for their safety. There travelers will find information about tourism and safety. To access the most secure information, online platforms like the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) are appropriate. The World Factbook on the CIA’s website describes the country’s history, U.S. Embassy contact info , local customs and travel safety tips. These pieces of information could offer travelers an opportunity to secure a safer environment while traveling.

Health Safety

Health safety is just one part of a travel destination’s overall safety level. But personal health is incredibly important for all travelers. This is especially true when tourists are traveling to a particular destination for the first time. It is important for travelers to stay informed about their potential travel destination and prepare accordingly. There are different online platforms that provide helpful information concerning the health status of locations abroad.

One of the top resources for travelers is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s traveler’s health page presents travel health notices, available medications, preventable illnesses and specialized travel tips for particular countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) is another reputable resource that will help travelers assess the health safety of their potential travel destination. On Costa Rica’s official country webpage, travelers can find a profile for the destination, location specific travel advice and health statistics. There is even contact information for the WHO offices in Costa Rica.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Tourists and Solo Travelers?

Yes, Costa Rica is a relatively safe destination for travelers. It is pretty well known by the tourism community as a safe country for solo and family travel. The country is considered secure. Technically Costa Rica is among the few countries in the world without an active army. The money that does not go to the military is for public healthcare and education. This serves as a testament to the safety level of Costa Rica. But that does not mean that crime does not occur in the Central American country.

Costa Rica does experience some crime, even though the majority of tourists feel safe there. Tourists are not disproportionately impacted by crimes in the country, but crimes do occur mostly in populated areas. Some of these may include areas frequented by tourists. The most common crimes in Costa Rica impacting tourists are petty. These include pickpocketing and theft. Generally, travelers that exercise basic travel precautions avoid being targeted by criminals.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

Exercising a baseline of travel safety precautions is a wise way for travelers to secure their safety. Some of the basic precautions include staying alert in crowded areas, never leaving valuables unattended, maintaining awareness and avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas. It is also important for travelers to know the contact information of local emergency services. This ensures that they are well informed of precautionary and preventive measures that may impact their overall safety abroad.

Travelers often rely on public transportation while abroad. In Costa Rica, the bus system is the most common way that both locals and visitors get around. So, it is important to know the best ways to stay safe on public transport while in unfamiliar surroundings. Travelers should at the very least be sure to stay alert while in public spaces, secure their personal belongings at their accommodation and avoid flaunting valuables or expensive things. Additional security measures while riding public transportation in Costa Rica include verifying driver’s certifications and confirming fares before entering vehicles.

Where to Stay

Costa Rica is quite vast and overall safe, so travelers have plenty of options for where to stay . But there are some options that stand out as the top selections for travelers. Tamarindo, Drake Bay and Atenas are some of the safest places for travelers to stay in. Tamarindo is located on the Pacific coast and is a popular destination in Costa Rica. Despite its popularity, Tamarindo does not have swarms of tourists in the area. The town is popular for water-sports, nightlife and culinary experiences. Drake Bay is a southwestern coastal area that offers travelers a family friendly environment. The slight privacy and peaceful ambiance of Drake Bay make it one of the safest areas of Costa Rica. Atenas is another option for travelers that stands out due to its tranquility. This small town is considered to be one of the safest areas for families or travelers that prefer to be out of all the hustle and bustle.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Costa Rica is dependent on the preferences of travelers but should be considerate of the weather conditions. The weather varies by region, but travelers can premeditate the weather conditions with forecasts before their trip. The dry season is the most popular season due to the pleasant weather. From around December to April travelers can enjoy the most ideal amount of sunshine. The characteristics of the dry season also mean that travelers should expect crowds and higher prices. If travelers do not mind rain or warmer temperatures, visiting in the rainy season or during summer may be best. The rainy season is between May and November and the highest temperatures occur during June and July.

People Also Ask

Is Costa Rica safe to live in? Yes, Costa Rica is actually one of the safest countries in Central America to live in.

Are tourists safe in Costa Rica? Tourists are perfectly safe while in Costa Rica as long as they exercise some basic travel safety precautions.