Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Costa Rica?

No, US passport holders do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days in Costa Rica. This is part of the visa exemption agreement between the United States and Costa Rica. The 90-day period is counted from your entry date and can sometimes be extended by an additional 90 days by visiting a Costa Rican immigration office.

Entry Requirements for US Citizens

  • Valid US passport with at least one blank page (validity of at least 1 day beyond entry — no 6-month rule for US citizens)
  • Proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to a third country)
  • Proof of financial means ($1,000 minimum, though rarely checked)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (only if arriving from a yellow-fever-endemic country — not required from the US)

Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa (Rentista Remoto)

Costa Rica launched a digital nomad visa for remote workers:

  • Validity: 1 year, renewable for an additional year
  • Income requirement: $3,000/month (or $4,000/month for families)
  • Benefits: No income tax on foreign-sourced income, ability to open Costa Rican bank accounts, use of foreign driver's license
  • Application: Through the Costa Rican Immigration Directorate (DGME)

Tourist Visa Extension

If you wish to stay beyond 90 days, you can apply for an extension at the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería in San José. Alternatively, many expats do a 'border run' — leaving Costa Rica for at least 72 hours and re-entering, which resets the 90-day clock. However, immigration officers have become stricter about repeated border runs.

Driving in Costa Rica

US citizens can drive in Costa Rica with a valid US driver's license for up to 90 days. After that, you need a Costa Rican license. International Driving Permits are accepted but not required.

Health Considerations

Costa Rica has a public healthcare system that is not available to tourists. Private travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended. No specific vaccinations are required for US travelers entering Costa Rica.

Departure Tax

Costa Rica's departure tax ($29) is now included in most airline ticket prices. Verify with your airline — if not included, you must pay at the airport before check-in.