El Salvador passport → Costa Rica

Costa Rica visa for citizens of El Salvador

Visa-freeVisa-free · Tourist (90 days)

Citizens of El Salvador can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Visa-free · Tourist (90 days)
How to apply	No visa needed — just go
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Government fee	No visa fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Sufficient funds for stay (e.g., $100 per day or credit card)

How to apply

1
Prepare required documents
Ensure passport is valid and have onward ticket and other optional proof ready
2
Arrive at Costa Rican port of entry
Present passport and supporting documents to immigration officer for inspection and possible questions about stay

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay

Travel

Return or onward ticket
Proof of departure from Costa Rica
Accommodation proof
Optional
Hotel reservation or invitation letter if staying with friends/family

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Optional
Bank statements, credit card, or cash showing ability to cover stay

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient for duration (commonly $100 per day or equivalent)

bank statements
credit card
cash

Immigration may ask for proof of funds, especially on first entry or if staying longer

Common refusal reasons

Passport validity less than 6 months

Renew passport before travel

Lack of onward ticket

Purchase a return or onward ticket before arrival

Insufficient funds or evidence of support

Carry bank statements or enough cash/credit limit

FAQ

Do citizens of El Salvador need a visa for Costa Rica?

Citizens of El Salvador can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days. Visa type: Visa-free · Tourist (90 days).

How long can citizens of El Salvador stay in Costa Rica?

Up to 90 days without a visa.

What documents do citizens of El Salvador need for Costa Rica?

Valid passport; Return or onward ticket; Accommodation proof; Proof of sufficient funds.

How long must my passport be valid for Costa Rica?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to Costa Rica

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for Costa Rica.

Plan the trip in Nowah All visa guides