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Afghanistan passport → Costa Rica

Costa Rica visa for citizens of Afghanistan

Embassy / VFSVisa (Tourist, Business, etc.)

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Costa Rica and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked . Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · Visa (Tourist, Business, etc.)
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 30 days
Visa validity90 days
EntriesSingle entry
Processing time14–30 days
Government fee$30
Passport validityAt least 6 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statement showing sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

  1. 1

    Prepare required documents

    Gather all documents listed above, including passport, photos, financial proofs, and travel itinerary.

  2. 2

    Complete the visa application form

    Fill out the official Costa Rican visa application form neatly and accurately.

  3. 3

    Schedule an appointment at the embassy

    Contact the nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate (e.g., in New Delhi or Istanbul) to book a submission appointment.

  4. 4

    Attend the appointment in person

    Bring original documents plus photocopies; submit application, pay fee, and provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

  5. 5

    Await processing

    Wait for visa decision; processing typically takes 2–4 weeks.

  6. 6

    Collect your passport

    Pick up your passport with visa sticker from the embassy, or arrange return by mail if agreed.

Documents checklist

Travel

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond departure

    Must have at least two blank pages

  • Proof of onward/return flight booking

    Confirmed reservation showing exit from Costa Rica

  • Hotel reservation or invitation letter

    Show accommodation for entire stay

  • Copy of passport bio page

    Clear photocopy

Financial

  • Bank statements for last 3 months

    Must show sufficient funds for trip

Employment

  • Employment letter or proof of ties to home country

    Indicate job position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

  • Completed visa application form

    Obtain from embassy website or in person

  • Passport-sized photograph (white background, 2x2 inch)

    Taken within last 6 months

  • Travel health insurance (minimum $50,000 coverage)

    Must cover entire duration in Costa Rica

  • Self-addressed stamped envelope (for return of passport)

    Optional

    Only if applying by mail with embassy approval

  • Police clearance certificate (if requested)

    Optional

    May be requested by embassy

  • Additional supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)

    Optional

    If traveling with family

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient to cover stay (no fixed amount stated)

  • Bank statement (last 3 months)
  • Pay slips
  • Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

Must clearly show regular income and sufficient funds for trip.

Good to know

  • Afghan passport holders face high rejection rates; provide strong ties to home country.
  • Visa must be used within 90 days of issuance.
  • Yellow fever vaccination recommended if traveling from endemic country.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields before submission.

Insufficient funds or bank statements

Provide clear proof of adequate financial means.

Lack of strong ties to home country

Include employment letter, property deeds, or family proof.

Past immigration violations or overstay

Declare any previous issues honestly; provide explanation letter if needed.

FAQ

Do citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Costa Rica?

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Costa Rica and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visa (Tourist, Business, etc.).

How long can citizens of Afghanistan stay in Costa Rica?

Up to 30 days.

How much does the Costa Rica visa cost for citizens of Afghanistan?

Government fee: $30.

How long does Costa Rica visa processing take?

Typically 14–30 days.

What documents do citizens of Afghanistan need for Costa Rica?

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond departure; Completed visa application form; Passport-sized photograph (white background, 2x2 inch); Proof of onward/return flight booking; Hotel reservation or invitation letter; Bank statements for last 3 months; and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Costa Rica?

At least 6 months.

Sources

Plan your trip to Costa Rica

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