Visa requirements

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.

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.

  Includes

  • Study at Costa Rican institution
• 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

• Birth certificate

  Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

1. 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.

2. Processing wait

   Provisional student visa processed - grants entry to Costa Rica for up to 90 days. Wait 1-2 months for processing.

3. 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.

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.