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United States passport → Costa Rica

Costa Rica visa for citizens of the United States

Visa-free

Citizens of the United States can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days.

Not yet verified

Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

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

Key facts

Entry routeVisa-free
How to applyNo visa needed — just go
Maximum stayUp to 90 days
Government feeNo visa fee
BiometricsNot required
AppointmentNot required
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired

How to apply

  1. 1

    Arrive at Costa Rican border

    Present your passport and any requested documents to the immigration officer for entry.

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid U.S. Passport

    Must be valid for the duration of stay.

Travel

  • Return or onward ticket

    Proof of departure from Costa Rica.

Financial

  • Proof of sufficient funds

    Optional

    May be requested by immigration officer.

Good to know

  • Visa-free stay is limited to 90 days within any 12-month period. Overstaying may result in fines or deportation.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or lack of onward ticket

Carry proof of sufficient funds and a confirmed return or onward ticket.

Previous overstay in Costa Rica

Ensure compliance with visa-free limits on prior visits.

FAQ

Do citizens of the United States need a visa for Costa Rica?

Citizens of the United States can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days.

How long can citizens of the United States stay in Costa Rica?

Up to 90 days without a visa.

What documents do citizens of the United States need for Costa Rica?

Valid U.S. Passport; Return or onward ticket; Proof of sufficient funds.

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

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