Costa Rica Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Visa-free entry for British, EU, US, and Canadian passport holders.
- Standard tourist stay is usually up to 90 days for exempt nations.
- Required for 'Group Three' and 'Group Four' national categories.
- Easy extension process available while inside the country.
- Proof of outward travel is strictly enforced at the border.
- Consular appointments are typically required for non-exempt travellers.
Processing time
10-30 working days
Processing times vary significantly depending on whether the visa is 'Consular' or 'Consulted' (the latter requires authorisation from Costa Rica).
Estimated cost
$32 - $82
- Consular Visa Fee$32.00
- Administrative or Consultation Fees$20.00 - $50.00
Requirements
- Proof of onward or return travel (flight, bus, or cruise)
- Sufficient funds to support yourself (minimum $100 USD per month of stay)
- Passport in good condition with at least two blank pages
- No criminal record in the last five years
- A formal letter of request addressed to the Consul
- Proof of legal residence in the country where you are applying (if not a citizen)
- International yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)
- Documents must be apostilled or legalised if requested by the consulate
Documents you'll need
- Completed visa application form signed by the applicant
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from entry date
- Two recent passport-sized colour photographs (white background)
- Round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary
- Proof of financial solvency (bank statements for the last 3 months)
- Police clearance certificate from country of residence
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Visa Exemptions
Determine your nationality's category (Group 1, 2, 3, or 4) to see if you need a visa or if you are visa-exempt.
- 2
Book an Appointment
Contact the nearest Costa Rican consulate to schedule an interview or document submission appointment.
- 3
Write the Formal Request
Address a letter to the Consul stating your personal details, purpose of travel, duration of stay, and contact information.
- 4
Prepare the Document File
Gather all required documents, including bank statements, passport copies, and police records. Ensure translations are provided if needed.
- 5
Submit Application and Pay Fees
Attend the consulate in person to present your file and, in some cases, undergo a brief interview about your travel plans.
- 6
Await Approval
Wait for the consulate to process your application. If approved, you will need to leave your passport for the visa stamp.
- 7
Collect Passport and Travel
Once the visa is issued, check the details for accuracy and ensure you enter Costa Rica before the visa expiry date.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Always carry a printed copy of your return flight; digital copies aren't always accepted at land borders.
- Ensure your bank statements are stamped by the bank to prove authenticity.
- Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your intended departure date to account for delays.
- Check if you have a valid US, Canadian, or Schengen visa; this can sometimes exempt you from needing a Costa Rican visa.
- Be specific about your itinerary in your request letter to show you have a clear plan.
- Ensure your passport does not expire within 6 months of your planned arrival date.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.