Costa Rica eVisa & Travel Information (2026)

Introduction

Costa Rica is Central America's premier destination for ecotourism, biodiversity, and "pura vida" lifestyle. It is one of the most visited countries in Central America and has a very open visa policy — over 130 nationalities can visit without a visa for 90 days. Costa Rica does not have a standing army and is known for its stability, democracy, and environmental commitment (over 25% protected land).

Tourist & Short Stay

• Visa-Free (90 days): USA, Canada, EU countries, UK, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Israel, and most of the Americas. Present passport on arrival at SJO or other ports. An onward or return ticket is strictly enforced — airline check-in and immigration may deny boarding without it.
• Extension: Not easily available as a tourist. The common practice is to do a "border run" to Panama or Nicaragua and re-enter for another 90 days. Alternatively, apply for a residence permit (temporary or permanent) for long-term stays.
• Visa required: Citizens of China, India, Russia, and select other countries. Apply at Costa Rican consulate. Tourist visa: ~USD 30 single-entry.

Business Visa

Business visits (meetings, trade) are covered by the visa-free arrangement for most nationalities. For company incorporation, Costa Rica offers 100% foreign ownership. CINDE (Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency) supports foreign investors. Free Trade Zones offer tax incentives for manufacturing and service companies.

Work & Long-Stay Visas

• Digital Nomad Visa (Rentista category, Law 9996) — USD 100: For remote workers employed abroad or freelancers with minimum income USD 3,000/month (employees) or USD 5,000/month (self-employed/entrepreneurs). Valid 2 years, renewable. Apply at DIMEX (immigration.go.cr).
• Temporary Residence — Rentista: For those with regular income >USD 2,500/month from abroad. 2-year permit.
• Pensionado (Retiree) Residence: Minimum monthly pension/income USD 1,000/month. 2-year renewable temporary residence; leads to permanent after 3 years.
• Investor Residence: Investment of USD 150,000+ in a Costa Rican company or property (located in specific zones). 2-year temporary residence.
• Employment Work Permit: Employer-sponsored; prior authorization from MTSS (Ministry of Labour) required. Residence permit for duration of contract.

Student Visa

Temporary Residence (Student) for enrolled students at Costa Rican institutions. Apply through DIMEX with acceptance letter, proof of financial support, and health insurance. Valid for study duration.

Airport Transit

Most nationalities can transit through Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO) without a visa if they remain airside. Landside access (leaving the airport) requires either visa-free eligibility or a valid Costa Rican visa.

Required Documents

• Valid passport (1 month+ beyond intended departure)
• Return or onward flight ticket (strictly required — shown at check-in and immigration)
• Proof of funds (USD 100/day minimum recommended, or credit card)
• Accommodation confirmation
• Travel and health insurance
• For Digital Nomad Visa: proof of employment/contracts, bank statements showing USD 3,000–5,000/month income, police clearance, apostilled birth certificate

Visa Fees

How to Apply

1. Check visa-free eligibility at immigration.go.cr or your country's embassy.
2. If visa-free: purchase a return or onward ticket (mandatory), confirm accommodation, and arrive at SJO with passport.
3. For Digital Nomad Visa: apply through immigration.go.cr — gather all documents (apostilled, translated to Spanish if needed), pay USD 100, submit application. Processing: 1–3 months.
4. For other residence permits: consult a local immigration lawyer (strongly recommended for complex applications).

Official Links

• immigration.go.cr — DIMEX (General Directorate of Immigration)
• cinde.org — CINDE Investment Promotion Agency
• visitcostarica.com — ICT Tourism Board

Who Is Visa-Exempt for Costa Rica?

~130+ nationalities are visa-exempt for 90 days including all EU/Schengen countries, USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Israel, Mexico, and all South American countries. Note: all visitors must show proof of onward/return travel — this is a strict requirement. Visa-required: China, India, Russia, Pakistan, and select others. Check immigration.go.cr for the full list.

Always verify current visa rules on official government sites before travel.