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Saudi Arabia passport → Costa Rica

Costa Rica visa for citizens of Saudi Arabia

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa

Citizens of Saudi Arabia 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 · Tourist Visa
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Passport validityAt least 6 months
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statement or equivalent showing sufficient funds

How to apply

  1. 1

    Check eligibility

    Saudi Arabian passport holders generally require a visa unless they hold a qualifying residence permit or visa (EU/US/Canada/Switzerland/Norway/Iceland/UK residence permit or US/Canada multiple entry visa).

  2. 2

    Gather required documents

    Collect all documents listed above, including passport, photos, itinerary, funds proof, and any applicable exemption evidence.

  3. 3

    Print and complete visa application form

    Download or obtain the form from the nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate, fill legibly.

  4. 4

    Book an appointment at the Costa Rican embassy or consulate

    Contact the embassy (e.g., in Riyadh or via a jurisdiction) to schedule a submission appointment.

  5. 5

    Attend in-person appointment and submit application

    Submit documents, pay the fee (if any), and possibly provide biometrics or answer questions.

  6. 6

    Pay visa fee

    Fees vary; confirm with the embassy. No official amount available currently.

  7. 7

    Wait for processing

    Processing time is not specified; contact embassy for current timelines.

  8. 8

    Collect passport with visa decision

    If approved, visa will be affixed/stamped. If rejected, you may be given a reason.

  9. 9

    Travel to Costa Rica

    Ensure passport valid at least 6 months and carry all documents.

  10. 10

    Upon arrival

    Immigration may request proof of onward travel, funds, and accommodation.

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

  • Completed visa application form

    Available from the Costa Rican embassy or consulate

  • Recent passport-sized photographs (2x2 inches, white background)

    Typically 2 photos

  • Copy of passport data page

Travel

  • Proof of onward/return flight ticket

    Confirmed round-trip or onward travel itinerary

  • Hotel reservation or letter of invitation

    Must cover entire intended stay

  • Travel itinerary / detailed stay plan

    May be requested

Financial

  • Proof of sufficient funds

    e.g., bank statements for the last 3 months, credit card limit, or sponsor letter

Employment

  • Work letter or proof of employment (if applicable)

    For employed applicants

Supporting

  • Medical insurance covering entire stay in Costa Rica

    Often recommended, not always mandatory

  • Copy of residence permit (if applicable)

    Required if using EU/US/Canada/Switzerland/Norway/Iceland/UK residence permit exemption

  • Copy of valid multiple-entry visa for Canada or United States (if applicable)

    Required if using visa-based exemption

  • Cover letter explaining purpose of visit

    Optional but helpful

  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from endemic country)

    Only if applicable

Good to know

  • The official lane for Saudi Arabia to Costa Rica is in_person (visa required), but holders of a qualifying residence permit (EU/Canada/US/Switzerland/Norway/Iceland/UK) or US/Canada multiple-entry visa may enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
  • Fees and processing times are not publicly available from the source; contact the Costa Rican embassy for current details.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or vague travel purpose

Provide bank statements showing adequate balance (approx. $100 per day) and a clear itinerary.

Passport validity less than 6 months

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.

Missing or incorrect documents

Double-check all required documents and any exemption proofs.

Criminal record or previous visa violations

Be honest; provide explanation letter if needed.

FAQ

Do citizens of Saudi Arabia need a visa for Costa Rica?

Citizens of Saudi Arabia need a visa for Costa Rica and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa.

What documents do citizens of Saudi Arabia need for Costa Rica?

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity); Completed visa application form; Recent passport-sized photographs (2x2 inches, white background); Copy of passport data page; Proof of onward/return flight ticket; Proof of sufficient funds; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Costa Rica?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to Costa Rica

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