Costa Rica Entry Requirements for Tourists

Who this guide is for

This guide is for US, Canadian, UK and EU citizens planning a tourist trip to Costa Rica — for wildlife reserves, volcanoes, beaches, surfing or eco-lodges. It covers the practical entry requirements based on official UK and US government guidance.

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Visa-free entry

US, Canadian, UK and most EU citizens can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days as tourists. No pre-travel visa application is required. Entry is permitted at the border, subject to satisfying the conditions below.

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The onward ticket rule — the most important condition

Unlike many countries where an onward ticket is technically required but rarely checked, Costa Rica actively enforces this rule:

1. At check-in: Airlines are required to verify that passengers have onward or return travel. You may be denied boarding at your departure airport if you cannot show this.
2. At immigration: Costa Rican immigration officers ask for proof of how and when you will leave. Without it, entry can be refused.

The simplest approach: Book a return flight before you travel. If your plans are genuinely flexible, a fully refundable onward ticket purchased and held (even if later cancelled) is widely used by travellers — though this is your own decision to make.

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Proof of funds

Costa Rican immigration can ask for evidence that you have enough money to support your stay. There is no fixed requirement on the amount, but having a recent bank statement, a credit card or clear evidence of accessible funds is sensible. This is more likely to be checked if a border officer has any doubt about the purpose or duration of the trip.

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Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date as a practical precaution. Costa Rica's strict legal requirement may be shorter, but airlines may refuse boarding, and an unexpected extension to your trip (weather, illness, changed plans) could leave you in difficulty with a passport close to expiry.

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What the US travel advisory means

The US State Department rates Costa Rica at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to crime. This is not an advice against travel — Costa Rica is a very popular destination for American tourists. The advisory specifically notes:

• Petty theft and armed robbery, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport.
• Theft from rental vehicles (a very common issue — never leave valuables in a car, even briefly).
• Express robbery, particularly at ATMs.

The popular tourist areas — Manuel Antonio, Arenal, Monteverde, the Nicoya Peninsula, Puerto Viejo — are visited by large numbers of tourists. The risks are real but manageable with standard precautions.

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Rental car safety

Theft from rental vehicles is one of the most consistently reported problems for tourists in Costa Rica. Key rules:

• Never leave anything visible in a parked car — not a bag, jacket, sunglasses or any item.
• Use secure, attended parking where possible.
• Check whether your rental includes or offers additional theft protection.

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Getting around

• ATMs: Use ATMs inside bank branches during banking hours. Avoid street ATMs after dark.
• Taxis: Use official red taxis (Taxi Oficial) or app-based Uber. Unlicensed taxis ("piratas") can be a safety risk.
• Night travel: Avoid travelling between towns at night where possible, particularly in isolated areas.

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Sources

Checked on 25 July 2026.

• GOV.UK: Costa Rica entry requirements
• GOV.UK: Costa Rica safety and security
• US State Dept: Costa Rica Travel Advisory