Costa Rica visa and entry requirements for US, UK, Canadian, Australian, NZ and Irish citizens

Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland do not need a visa for Costa Rica for tourism or business visits up to 90 days. You must have a passport valid for the duration of your stay, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. Entry is usually granted for 90 days, but the immigration officer decides the exact period.

If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for an extension through the immigration office (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería) before your current period expires. Overstaying can result in fines and a ban from re-entry.

The table below summarises visa requirements for the nationalities covered on this page. All are visa‑exempt for tourism, but always confirm with the nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate before travel, as rules can change.

To enter Costa Rica, you need a passport valid for the duration of your stay. There is no minimum validity period beyond your departure date, but some airlines may require at least six months, so check with your carrier.

You must show a return or onward ticket. This can be a flight out of Costa Rica, or a bus or boat ticket to a neighbouring country. Immigration may also ask for proof of sufficient funds, typically around US$100–300 for your stay, though the exact amount is not fixed.

If you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk, you may need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. This applies to travellers coming from South America and sub‑Saharan Africa. Check the current list before you travel.

If you want to stay longer than 90 days, you can apply for an extension at the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería in San José. The application should be made before your current stay expires. Extensions are usually granted for 90 days, but approval is not guaranteed.

Overstaying your permitted period results in fines and can lead to a ban from re‑entering Costa Rica. The fine is calculated per day overstayed, and you may be required to pay it at the airport before departure.

Common questions about Costa Rica visa and entry requirements.