Costa Rica passport and entry requirements
Passport must be valid for at least one day beyond arrival, but airlines often require six months — carry more validity than the minimum.
Last reviewed:
Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to crime . Advisory Summary Petty crime is common throughout Costa Rica. Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, also affects tourists. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Costa Rica. If you decide to travel to Costa Rica: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get im
Passport you need
No visa for tourist stays up to 180 days. Proof of onward travel is checked.
Official U.S. Department of State country informationVisa and travel authorizations
U.S. citizens can generally visit for tourism without a visa for short stays, but rules change — always confirm on the official government site before booking.
Before you book
- 1. Open your passport and read the expiration date. If it falls inside the validity window above, renew before you buy tickets.
- 2. Count your blank visa pages. Pages marked "amendments and endorsements" do not count as visa pages.
- 3. File any ETA, e-visa or arrival form on the official site, days before departure rather than at the airport.
- 4. Carry the passport book, not just the card, for any international flight.