Costa Rica
General visa requirements for travelling to Costa Rica. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.
Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.
Work / Immigration visa (Digital Nomad Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
e-Visa
- Processing time
- Around 15 working days
- Fee
- $100 USD
- Entry
- Single entry
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of stable net income of at least $3,000 per month ($5,000 for families).
Minimum funds: $3,000 USD per month ($5,000 for families)
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Employment
Must work remotely for a foreign company, cannot work locally in Costa Rica. Can live in Costa Rica full-time but not work locally.
Required status: Remote work for foreign company only
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
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Travel insurance
Coverage area: Costa Rica; Minimum coverage: Coverage for length of stay
How to apply
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Online application
Submit digital nomad visa application online with application form, passport, proof of income, health insurance, and employment documentation.
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Fee payment
Pay application fee of $100 USD by bank transfer only.
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Processing wait
Application processed in around 15 working days, can vary during busy periods.
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Visa collection
Receive digital nomad visa if approved.
Medical visa (Medical Tourism - Group 1 Countries)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Processing time
- N/A - entry stamp upon arrival
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- 180 days
- Entry
- Single entry
Up to 180 days for medical treatment, non-extendable for US/Canada/EU nationals.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of economic means - minimum of US$100.00 per month of stay, plus funds for medical treatment.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month plus medical treatment funds
-
Purpose of visit
Use standard tourist visa for medical treatment. Documentation from medical facility where treatment is scheduled advisable for extended treatments.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3
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Travel insurance
Coverage area: Costa Rica; Minimum coverage: Medical insurance recommended
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Transit visa (Transit - Group 1 Countries)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 1 days
- Processing time
- N/A
- Fee
- Free
- Entry
- Single entry
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Can transit through Costa Rican airports without exiting the airport. Airport transit only, not exiting immigration.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No
Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic & Official Passport Holders - Exempt Countries)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Processing time
- N/A - entry stamp upon arrival
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- Up to 90 days unless otherwise specified
- Entry
- Single entry
Valid diplomatic, service, or official passport required.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Valid diplomatic or service/official passport required. Specific duration varies by country: Barbados, China, Cuba, Morocco: 30 days; Singapore: 180 days; others: 90 days.
Transit visa (Transit Visa Required)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 2 days
- Processing time
- Varies by consulate
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Validity
- 30 days from issuance
- Entry
- Single entry
Includes all Group 4 countries plus additional nationals as per 2026 update. Apply in advance of travel.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Maximum period of 48 hours to transit through Costa Rica once entered the country. First entry to Costa Rica must be carried out within 30 days from visa issuance date.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No
How to apply
-
Document submission
Apply for transit visa at Costa Rican embassy or consulate with application form, passport, onward flight ticket, and visa for final destination (if required).
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Processing wait
Transit visa processed. Processing time varies by consulate.
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Visa collection
Receive transit visa valid for 48 hours, must be used within 30 days of issuance.
Work / Immigration visa (Investor Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 9-12 months from formal submission
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Entry
- Single entry
All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Minimum investment of USD $150,000 in qualifying assets. Investment may include real estate, an active business, or a government-approved project.
Minimum funds: $150,000 USD
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Make qualifying investment in Costa Rica with investment documentation, property titles or business registration, and financial statements.
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Document submission
Submit investor visa application with application form, passport, investment proof, and supporting documents translated into Spanish.
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Processing wait
Application processed by immigration authorities. Wait 9-12 months from formal submission for processing.
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Visa collection
Receive investor residency if approved.
Work / Immigration visa (Rentista Visa - Freelancers & Self-Employed)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 3-8 months
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Entry
- Single entry
All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Documentation showing steady income from outside Costa Rica. Proof of consistent monthly income or pension.
Minimum funds: Steady monthly income from outside Costa Rica
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
How to apply
-
Document submission
Submit rentista visa application at Costa Rican embassy or consulate with application form, passport, income documentation, financial statements, and supporting documents translated into Spanish.
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Processing wait
Application processed by immigration authorities. Wait 3-8 months for processing.
-
Visa collection
Receive rentista visa if approved.
Tourist visa (Group 1 - Visa-Free 180 Days)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Processing time
- N/A - entry stamp upon arrival
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- 180 days
- Entry
- Single entry
Entry stamp upon arrival allows up to 180 calendar days, non-extendable.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of economic means required - minimum of US$100.00 per month or partial month of legal stay in the country.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month
-
Purpose of visit
Eligible for tourist visits with entry stamp upon arrival.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Tourist visa (Group 4 - Restricted Visa Required)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- Minimum 90 days
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Validity
- Up to 90 days total
- Entry
- Single entry
Requires approval from the Commission of Restricted Visas at the Directorate of Immigration in Costa Rica. Must be applied at least 90 days before expected travel.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of economic means - minimum of US$100.00 per month or partial month of legal stay.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Restricted visa application form
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Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
How to apply
-
Document submission
Submit restricted visa application at nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate with completed application form, passport, passport photos, application letter, and all supporting documents translated to Spanish.
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Processing wait
Application forwarded to General Office of Migration in Costa Rica for approval by Commission of Restricted Visas. Processing takes minimum 90 days after documents sent to Costa Rica.
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Fee payment
Pay visa fee after approval as specified by the consulate.
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Visa collection
Receive restricted visa if approved.
Business visa (Short-term Business Visitor Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 30 calendar days (Group 3) or 90+ days (Group 4)
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Entry
- Single entry
All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of economic means - minimum of US$100.00 per month of stay.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month
-
Purpose of visit
Business meetings, conferences, negotiations - no income generated within Costa Rica.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-sized photographs
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Letter from employer or business invitation from Costa Rican company detailing purpose of visit, duration of stay, and activities to be conducted
How to apply
-
Document submission
Submit business visa application at Costa Rican embassy or consulate with application form, passport, business invitation/letter, passport photos, financial proof, and all documents translated to Spanish.
-
Processing wait
Application processed. Processing takes 30 calendar days for consular visa (Group 3), or 90+ days for restricted visa (Group 4).
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Visa collection
Receive business visa if approved.
Tourist visa (Visa Exemption with US/Canada/Schengen Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Processing time
- N/A - entry stamp upon arrival
- Fee
- Free
- Entry
- Single entry
Valid multiple-entry visa or residence permit from United States, Canada, or Schengen Area (C or D visa for Schengen, multiple entry only) must have at least 90 days of validity remaining upon arrival. Schengen visa must be Category C or D, multiple entry only, issued for no more than 90 days, and valid for at least one calendar day on intended date of entry. Authorized stay cannot exceed the remaining validity of the third-country visa or residence permit.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Nationals from visa-required countries holding valid multiple-entry visa or residence permit from United States, Canada, or Schengen Area countries are eligible for visa-free entry.
-
Financial
Proof of economic means - minimum of US$100.00 per month of stay.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Tourist visa (Group 2 - Visa-Free 30 Days)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- N/A - entry stamp upon arrival
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- 30 days
- Entry
- Single entry
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of economic means required - minimum of US$100.00 per month or partial month of legal stay.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month
-
Purpose of visit
Eligible for tourist visits with shorter stay duration.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Business visa (Business Visitors - Group 1 Countries)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Processing time
- N/A - entry stamp upon arrival
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- 180 days
- Entry
- Single entry
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of economic means - minimum of US$100.00 per month of stay.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month
-
Purpose of visit
Business meetings, conferences, negotiations - no income generated within Costa Rica.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: Recent passport-sized photographs
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
-
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Letter from employer or business invitation from Costa Rican company detailing purpose of visit, duration of stay, and activities to be conducted
Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic Visa Required)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Varies - processed through diplomatic channels
- Fee
- Free
- Entry
- Single entry
Recommend contacting Costa Rican embassy or Ministry of Foreign Affairs for specific requirements.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Valid diplomatic or official passport required. Official correspondence and documentation supporting diplomatic purpose required.
Documents you need
-
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
How to apply
-
Document submission
Submit diplomatic visa application through official channels with application letter, diplomatic passport, official documentation, and passport photocopies.
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Processing wait
Application processed through diplomatic channels. Processing time varies.
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Visa collection
Receive diplomatic visa if approved.
Work / Immigration visa (Temporary Residence Permit - Employer Sponsored)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 3-8 months, potentially longer
- Fee
- Varies
- Validity
- Duration of employment contract
- Entry
- Single entry
Initiate well in advance of intended employment start date. All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Eligibility
-
Employment
Must be sponsored by a Costa Rican employer. Employer must demonstrate that position cannot be filled by a Costa Rican citizen, providing evidence of recruitment efforts and lack of qualified local candidates. Work permit required for all foreign nationals engaging in employment activities, all job sectors and positions.
Required status: Employer sponsorship required with labor market test
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Employer initiates work permit application process with job offer letter, employment contract, labor market test documentation, and company registration documents.
-
Processing wait
Work permit and residence permit processed by immigration authorities. Processing typically takes 3-8 months, sometimes longer.
-
Visa collection
Receive work permit and temporary residence permit if approved.
Medical visa (Medical Treatment Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 30 calendar days (Group 3) or 90+ days (Group 4)
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Entry
- Single entry
All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of sufficient funds to cover medical treatment and stay.
Minimum funds: Sufficient for medical treatment and stay
-
Purpose of visit
Duration depends on length of treatment, extensions can be applied for if necessary.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Travel insurance
Coverage area: Costa Rica; Minimum coverage: Medical insurance coverage recommended
How to apply
-
Document submission
Submit visa application with medical documentation including application form, passport, medical records, treatment plan, financial proof, and all documents translated to Spanish.
-
Processing wait
Application processed. Processing takes 30 calendar days for consular visa (Group 3), or 90+ days for restricted visa (Group 4).
-
Visa collection
Receive medical treatment visa if approved.
Work / Immigration visa (Special Category - Arts & Entertainment)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 3-8 months
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Entry
- Single entry
All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Eligibility
-
Employment
Must have secured a job in the arts and entertainment industry (actors, painters, musicians, etc.).
Required status: Job offer in arts/entertainment sector
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
How to apply
-
Document submission
Submit special category visa application with application form, passport, job offer letter, portfolio/credentials, and supporting documents translated into Spanish.
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Processing wait
Application processed by immigration authorities. Wait 3-8 months for processing.
-
Visa collection
Receive special category visa if approved.
Student visa (Student Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Processing time
- 1-2 months for provisional visa, then several weeks to months for residence permit
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Validity
- 90 days provisional, then residence permit for duration of studies
- Entry
- Single entry
Start application several months before intended study start date. All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Must be pursuing education at an educational institution in Costa Rica.
-
Employment
Costa Rica doesn't allow international students to work alongside their studies.
Required status: No work permitted
-
Financial
Proof of financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.
Minimum funds: Sufficient for tuition and living expenses
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Passport-sized photos
-
Travel insurance
Coverage area: Costa Rica; Minimum coverage: Coverage for duration of studies
-
Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: No
-
Police clearance
Validity months: 6
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Birth certificate
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
How to apply
-
Document submission
Apply for provisional student visa at Costa Rican embassy or consulate with application form, passport, acceptance letter, financial proof, health insurance, background check, birth certificate, passport photos, and all documents translated into Spanish.
-
Processing wait
Provisional student visa processed - grants entry to Costa Rica for up to 90 days. Wait 1-2 months for processing.
-
Visa collection
Enter Costa Rica with provisional student visa. After arrival, apply for student residence permit to remain for duration of studies. Processing takes several weeks to months.
Tourist visa (Group 3 - Consular Visa Required)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- 30 calendar days
- Fee
- Varies by consulate
- Validity
- 30 days, extendable
- Entry
- Single entry
All documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized at Costa Rica consulate.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Proof of economic means - minimum of US$100.00 per month or partial month of legal stay.
Minimum funds: $100 USD per month
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Visa application form
-
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
How to apply
-
Document submission
Submit complete visa application form, passport photocopies of all pages, application letter directed to Costa Rica consulate, and all supporting documents translated into Spanish and legalized at Costa Rica consulate.
-
Processing wait
Application processed by consular authorities. Wait up to 30 calendar days for processing.
-
Fee payment
Pay visa fee after approval as specified by the consulate.
-
Visa collection
Receive visa if approved.