Costa Rica is a top destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, renowned for its stunning landscapes, biodiversity, and commitment to sustainability. However, whether you’re visiting for a few weeks or several months, understanding the country’s visa requirements is crucial for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

In 2023, Costa Rica introduced an important update to its visa policy, extending the maximum stay for tourists from certain countries from 90 to 180 days. This change aims to encourage longer visits, supporting both the tourism industry and travelers looking to fully experience the country’s natural beauty, culture, and the “Pura Vida” lifestyle. Official Document Visa Extension.

In this guide, we’ll break down Costa Rica’s visa requirements, entry procedures, and important tips for travelers, so you can confidently plan your visit. Whether you’re coming for a short holiday or looking to stay longer as a digital nomad, we’ll cover everything you need to know to navigate the visa process seamlessly.

Countries with No Visa Requirements

Costa Rica offers a generous visa-free policy for citizens of over 60 countries, allowing travelers to stay in the country for up to 180 days. This extension, introduced in September 2023, makes it easier for tourists from countries such as the United States, Canada, most European Union nations, and many others to enjoy an extended visit without the need for a visa.

What This Means for You:

If you’re a passport holder from one of these countries, you don’t need to apply for a visa before arriving in Costa Rica. This recent change is aimed at boosting tourism and allowing visitors to experience more of Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity, national parks, and unique culture.

• Onward Travel Proof: Even if you don’t need a visa, you must show proof of onward travel upon arrival. This could be a return flight or a ticket to another destination. This requirement applies to all travelers, regardless of their country of origin or length of stay.
• Immigration Check: Upon arrival, immigration officers may ask for proof of accommodation, financial solvency, and health insurance, though this is less common.

This new 180-day stay limit makes Costa Rica an even more appealing destination for digital nomads, long-term tourists, and travelers seeking to fully immerse themselves in the Pura Vida lifestyle.

Countries That Require a Visa

While many nationalities enjoy visa-free access to Costa Rica, travelers from certain countries must obtain a tourist visa before entering. This visa is required for nationals of countries that are not included in Costa Rica’s visa-exempt list, such as India, China, and most African nations. Understanding the visa application process and required documentation is essential for a smooth entry.

To see the list of Consulates of Costa Rica in the world enter here.

Visa Application Process:

1. Apply at a Costa Rican Embassy or Consulate:
   • You must submit your visa application at the nearest Costa Rican consulate in your home country. It’s important to apply well in advance of your intended travel date, as processing times can vary.
2. Required Documents:
   • A passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
   • A completed visa application form.
   • Proof of financial solvency (e.g., bank statements) to demonstrate your ability to cover your expenses during your stay.
   • Proof of onward or return travel (such as a plane ticket) to show that you will be leaving Costa Rica by the end of your visit.
3. Visa Processing Times and Fees:
   • Processing times may differ depending on the consulate, so it is advisable to apply as early as possible. Visa fees also vary by nationality, and you can confirm the exact amount when applying at your local consulate.
4. Health and Vaccination Requirements:
   • In some cases, visitors from countries where yellow fever is a risk must provide a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate before entering Costa Rica.

With the visa approval, you’ll be able to enjoy all that Costa Rica has to offer, just like travelers from visa-exempt countries, but be sure to carry your documentation with you for immigration checks.

For more detailed information, you can check official Costa Rican government resources and consulates​.

Special Requirements for Long-Term Stays

If you’re planning to stay in Costa Rica for more than the permitted 180 days or wish to establish a more permanent base in the country, there are several options available. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a retiree, or someone looking to explore long-term living in Costa Rica, understanding the options for extended stays is essential.

Extending Your Stay Beyond 180 Days

For tourists who have entered Costa Rica under the 180-day visa-free regime, extending your stay typically involves leaving the country and re-entering, a process known as a “border run.” This involves briefly visiting a neighboring country, such as Nicaragua or Panama, and then returning to Costa Rica to reset your tourist visa. However, frequent border runs are not encouraged, and immigration authorities may scrutinize multiple re-entries.

For those interested in staying longer without repeated exits, Costa Rica offers a variety of temporary residency visas.

Temporary Residency Visa Categories:

1. Pensionado Visa (Retiree Visa):
   • For individuals receiving a pension of at least $1,000 per month from a foreign government or institution.
   • This visa allows you to live in Costa Rica year-round, with the option to renew residency after two years. It also grants certain tax benefits and allows you to import personal goods duty-free.
2. Rentista Visa (Fixed Income Visa):
   • This visa is designed for individuals who can prove a fixed income of at least $2,500 per month or a bank deposit of $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank.
   • Rentistas cannot work for a Costa Rican employer but can run their own business or freelance for clients outside of Costa Rica.
3. Digital Nomad Visa:
   • Costa Rica introduced a Digital Nomad Visa in recent years, allowing remote workers to reside in the country for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extending for another year.
   • To qualify, applicants must prove a minimum monthly income of $3,000 (or $5,000 for families) and show evidence of health insurance coverage. This visa is ideal for freelancers, entrepreneurs, or employees of foreign companies who work remotely.
4. Inversionista Visa (Investor Visa):
   • For individuals who invest at least $150,000 in a Costa Rican business or property. Investors are granted temporary residency with the option of applying for permanent residency after three years.

Application Process for Temporary Residency:

• Applicants must submit their applications to Costa Rica’s Immigration Office (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería) and provide documents such as proof of income, health insurance, a valid passport, and criminal background checks.
• Processing times can vary, so it’s best to start the application process early.

Costa Rica’s temporary residency options allow for extended stays and, in many cases, the possibility of eventual permanent residency. Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or investing in Costa Rica, there’s a visa solution tailored to your long-term needs.

Entry Requirements for All Travelers

Regardless of your nationality or visa status, Costa Rica enforces certain entry requirements for all visitors to ensure a smooth immigration process and to maintain public health and safety. These requirements are standard for most travelers but are essential to know before planning your trip.

Passport Validity

• All visitors to Costa Rica must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of their entry into the country. This rule applies to every traveler, whether you’re from a visa-exempt country or applying for a tourist visa.

Proof of Onward Travel

• Costa Rica requires all visitors to present proof of onward travel upon entry. This could be a return flight to your home country or a flight, bus, or boat ticket to another destination. Without this, you may be denied entry at the immigration checkpoint. Even for travelers from countries with no visa requirements, this rule is strictly enforced.

Health Requirements

• While Costa Rica currently does not have COVID-19-related entry restrictions, it is still recommended to stay informed on any sudden changes regarding pandemic policies.
• If you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever, you will need to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. This applies to travelers coming from certain South American or African nations, where yellow fever is endemic.

Travel Insurance

• Although travel insurance is not mandatory, it is recommended. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip interruptions can save you significant stress and financial burdens if unexpected events occur during your stay. Costa Rica offers a variety of adventurous activities, and some types of coverage may be required by tour companies, especially for high-risk activities like zip-lining or white-water rafting.

Entry Process at Immigration

• Upon arrival, you will pass through immigration where you will need to present your passport, proof of accommodation, and onward travel ticket. It’s a good idea to have these documents easily accessible, either in physical or digital form.
• Immigration officers may also ask to see evidence of financial solvency, ensuring you can support yourself during your stay. While this is rarely requested, having a recent bank statement or credit card on hand is helpful.

5. Overstays and Penalties

Staying in Costa Rica beyond the allowed visa period, whether it’s 180 days for visa-exempt travelers or the duration specified on a visa, can lead to significant penalties. It’s important to plan your stay carefully and be aware of the consequences if you exceed your permitted time in the country.

Penalties for Overstaying

1. Fines for Overstaying:
   • Travelers who overstay their visa-free period or their visa can be subject to fines of $100 per day for each day they remain in the country past their allowed period. This fine is assessed when you exit Costa Rica, and failure to pay can lead to further complications.
2. Re-Entry Ban:
   • In addition to financial penalties, overstaying can result in a re-entry ban. Depending on the length of the overstay, travelers can face a ban of three months to up to three years before they are allowed to re-enter Costa Rica. Immigration authorities take overstays seriously, so adhering to the specified time frame is essential.
3. Possible Detention:
   • In extreme cases, if a traveler is found to have significantly overstayed their visa period, they may face detention before being deported. This is a rare scenario, typically reserved for significant or repeated violations of immigration laws, but it is a risk to be aware of.

Avoiding Overstays:

• Stay Monitoring: It’s crucial to keep track of your stay, especially if you’re close to reaching the 180-day limit. Some travelers miscalculate their exit date, so ensuring your travel plans align with your allowed stay period is key.
• Visa Extensions: Costa Rica does not typically offer simple visa extensions for tourist visas, though you may apply for an extension under certain extenuating circumstances by visiting an Immigration Office in San José. However, the approval of such extensions is rare, and it’s often simpler to exit and re-enter the country.
• Border Runs: Many long-term travelers opt for border runs to reset their stay period. This involves leaving Costa Rica, typically to Nicaragua or Panama, and then re-entering to restart the 180-day visa-free period. While this is a common practice, repeated border runs may raise concerns with immigration officials.

By planning ahead and understanding the regulations, you can avoid overstaying your visa and the associated penalties. Costa Rica is welcoming to travelers, but it’s essential to respect the country’s immigration laws to enjoy your stay without legal issues.

6. Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

Costa Rica has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers, thanks to its laid-back lifestyle, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming policies. In recent years, the Costa Rican government introduced a Digital Nomad Visa to attract remote workers who wish to stay for extended periods while working for foreign employers or managing their own businesses.

What is the Digital Nomad Visa?

The Digital Nomad Visa was designed to allow remote workers to live and work in Costa Rica for up to 12 months, with the option to extend for an additional year. This visa is ideal for professionals who can perform their jobs from anywhere in the world and want to experience the Pura Vida lifestyle while working remotely.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Proof of Income: Applicants must show that they earn a minimum of $3,000 per month if applying individually, or $5,000 per month if applying with a family.
• Health Insurance: Applicants must provide proof of health insurance that covers their entire stay in Costa Rica.
• Remote Work Requirement: Applicants must work for a foreign company or own a business located outside of Costa Rica. This visa does not permit employment with Costa Rican companies.
• Additional Benefits: Holders of the Digital Nomad Visa enjoy certain benefits, such as tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income and the ability to open a local bank account.

How to Apply:

1. Submit an Online Application: The application process can be initiated through Costa Rica’s Immigration Office website, where applicants must provide the necessary documents, including proof of income and health insurance.
2. Processing Time: The process can take several weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended arrival.
3. Renewal Process: After the initial 12 months, visa holders may apply for a one-year extension by proving continued eligibility, including meeting the income threshold.

Why Choose Costa Rica for Remote Work?

Costa Rica’s natural beauty, eco-conscious culture, and excellent internet infrastructure make it an ideal destination for digital nomads. Cities like San José, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa have become digital nomad hubs, offering a balance of work-friendly cafes, coworking spaces, and relaxing beach or jungle escapes.

With the new Digital Nomad Visa, Costa Rica is positioning itself as a top choice for remote workers looking for an enriching, nature-filled lifestyle.

7. Additional Entry Tips for Smooth Travel

Traveling to Costa Rica is generally a hassle-free experience, but there are some key tips that can help make your entry process even smoother. Following these guidelines will ensure that you’re fully prepared and can enjoy your stay without unnecessary complications.

Arrival Process

When you arrive in Costa Rica, you’ll go through immigration, where you’ll be required to present several important documents:

• Valid Passport: As mentioned earlier, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Costa Rica.
• Onward Travel Proof: Always have your proof of onward travel ready, whether it’s a return flight ticket or a booking to your next destination. This is mandatory, and travelers without it may face issues at immigration.
• Accommodation Details: While not always requested, having details of your first accommodation (hotel reservation or address of your stay) available can speed up the process.

Plan Your Border Crossing

For long-term travelers using border runs to reset their visa-free period, it’s essential to research border crossing procedures ahead of time. Whether you’re crossing into Nicaragua or Panama, make sure to have all the required documentation, and check current entry requirements for the neighboring country to avoid surprises.

Currency and ATM Availability

Costa Rica’s official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), though U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are readily available in most towns and cities, but it’s a good idea to carry some local currency for smaller, more rural locations where card payments may not be accepted.

• Tip: Be aware of any foreign transaction fees your bank may charge, and consider carrying cash for quicker transactions, particularly in local markets and small businesses.

Mobile Connectivity and SIM Cards

Staying connected while traveling in Costa Rica is easy, with plenty of Wi-Fi access in tourist areas, hotels, and cafes. However, if you’re planning to travel off the beaten path, consider purchasing a local SIM card from providers like Kolbi, Claro, or Movistar for reliable mobile data and calls. SIM cards are available at the airport or in most local shops.

Emergency Contacts

It’s always good to have local emergency contacts saved in your phone, just in case:

• Emergency Services: Dial 911 for general emergencies.
• Embassy Information: Have the contact details of your country’s embassy in Costa Rica on hand for assistance in case of passport issues or other emergencies.

Costa Rica’s evolving visa policies, including the recent extension of stays for travelers from certain countries to 180 days, make it one of the most accommodating and tourist-friendly destinations in the world. Whether you’re visiting for a short vacation or planning an extended stay as a digital nomad, knowing the visa requirements and entry processes can help ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.

From the scenic beaches and rich biodiversity to the warm Pura Vida culture, Costa Rica offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all kinds. By following the guidelines outlined in this article—whether it’s understanding visa-free rules, applying for a tourist visa, or taking advantage of long-term residency options like the Digital Nomad Visa—you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer.

Before you travel, make sure to check the latest updates from official Costa Rican government resources for any new changes to visa policies or entry requirements. With the right preparation, your adventure in Costa Rica will be both memorable and hassle-free.

List of 60 countries with the possibility of staying up to 180 days in Costa Rica.

*Its dependencies receive equal treatment. **Includes England, Wales and Scotland

• ARGENTINAS
  • MALVIN ISLANDS
• AUSTRALIAN
  • COCOS ISLANDS
  • CHRISTMAS ISLANDS
  • HEARD AND McDONALD ISLANDS
  • NORFOLK ISLANDS
• BRITISH
  • ANGUILA
  • ASCENSION
  • BERMUDAS
  • GIBRALTAR
  • CAYMAN ISLANDS
  • CANAL ISLANDS
  • ISLANDS OF MAN
  • PITCAIRN ISLANDS
  • TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
  • BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
  • MONSERRAT
  • SAINT HELENA
  • BRITISH INDIAN OCEAN TERRITORY
• DANESAS
  • GROENLAND
  • FEROÉ ISLANDS
• AMERICANS
  • GUAM
  • SMALLER ISLANDS FAR FROM THE UNITED STATES
  • U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
  • AMERICAN SAMOA
• FRENCH
  • GUADALUPE
  • FRENCH GUYANA
  • MARTINICA
  • MAYOTTE
  • NEW CALEDONIA
  • FRENCH POLYNESIA
  • MEETING
  • SAN PEDRO AND MIGUELON
  • SAN MARTIN
  • FRENCH SOUTHERN TERRITORIES
  • WALLIS AND FORTUNE
• DUTCH (NETHERLANDS)
  • NETHERLANDS ANTILLES
  • ARUBA
  • BONAIRE
  • CURAZAO
• NEOZELANDESAS
  • COOK ISLANDS
  • NIUE
  • TOLKELAU
• NORWAY
  • BOUVET ISLANDS
  • SVALBARD AND JAN MAYEN