Do I need a visa to enter Costa Rica?

Stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the vibrant capital city of San José attract travelers from around the globe to Costa Rica – ensure your paperwork is in order to avoid any last-minute issues.

While all visitors must present a valid passport and proof of onward travel to enter Costa Rica, not everyone requires a visa. Many passport holders can stay for up to 90 days; others may need to apply at their nearest consulate beforehand. Here’s everything you need to know about obtaining a visa for Costa Rica.

Not all travelers require a tourist visa to enter Costa Rica

Nationals from numerous countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, South Africa, UAE, USA, and most EU nations, can visit Costa Rica for up to 90 days without needing a visa.

Certain nationalities have additional requirements, such as needing passports that are valid for at least three months upon entry.

Nationalities that must secure a visa to enter Costa Rica include several African and Middle Eastern countries, like Saudi Arabia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Sierra Leone, along with a few South American nations, such as Colombia, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic. However, if you hold a valid visa or can demonstrate residency in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, or EU nations, you may be exempt from applying for a visa to Costa Rica.

The Costa Rica Embassy maintains an updated online list of visa requirements categorized by nationality – verify this information before you travel to ensure you have the latest details.

Extending your tourist visa can be challenging

Prolonging your stay beyond the allotted 30 or 90 days can be a lengthy process; often, it's simpler to exit the country for 72 hours and then re-enter. Visa extensions can be processed through migración offices, but requirements frequently change, so allow several business days to complete them.

Apply for student and work visas in advance

If you plan to stay in Costa Rica for more than 90 days, you must either establish residency or apply for a provisional or student visa ahead of time. Provisional visas are available to students, volunteers, academics, and research professionals, and it’s advisable for the sponsoring institution or employer to manage the application process.

Finding employment as a foreigner in Costa Rica can be difficult. Only foreigners who run their own businesses, possess unique skills unavailable locally, or work for companies with special agreements with the government are legally permitted to work. Securing a legitimate job requires obtaining a work permit, which can be a lengthy and complex process.

The most common avenues for paid work include teaching English at language institutes or positions within the hospitality sector at hotels and resorts. Additionally, naturalists or river guides might find opportunities with private lodges or adventure tourism companies.

Additional requirements exist for those wishing to relocate to Costa Rica permanently

Costa Rica attracts many digital nomads and expats, but to genuinely establish yourself with a residence permit, there are several hurdles to overcome. You’ll need to pass a background check, demonstrate a consistent and secure income, and provide a copy of your birth certificate translated into Spanish, among other requirements.