Costa Rica Entry Requirements

Planning a trip to beautiful sunny eco-friendly Costa Rica?  Let's make sure your documents are in order!

Do I need a passport to travel to Costa Rica?

Yes, you need a valid passport in order to travel to Costa Rica.  

Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?

Residents of North America (US & Canada) and the majority of countries in Europe are allowed to enter Costa Rica without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days.

Do I need a return ticket to enter Costa Rica?

Yes, you are required to have an entry and exit airline ticket in order to meet Costa Rica entry requirements.  If you are arriving by car, you must also provide documentation to show you will be leaving Costa Rica within the 90 day non-visa required period.

Can my pet travel with me to Costa Rica?

Within 2 weeks prior to traveling to Costa Rica, your dog or cat is required to have an examination by a licensed veterinarian and must be given a clean bill of health along with documentation showing the following completed vaccinations: hepatitis, lestospirosis, distemper, rabies and parvovirus.

Where is the safest place to keep my passport while in Costa Rica?

The best place to keep your passport during your stay in Costa Rica is in the safe of your hotel room (we have one in our condo in Playas del Coco for your convenience).  However, you will need to carry a photocopy of your passport showing your entry stamp with you at all times.  We recommend purchasing a waterproof soft neck pouch or a body wallet to keep your documentation and money discreetly hidden away. 

What if I decide to stay longer than 90 days?

If you want to stay in Costa Rica longer than 90 days, you'll be required to leave the country for 72 hours and then your entry will be allowed for an additional 90 days.  This process can be repeated indefinitely and is the way many non-Costa Ricans stay in the country year round :)

For information on traveling to Costa Rica, visit How to Get Here.

Cheers!

Ed & Connie