---
title: Costa Rica visa for citizens of the United States
description: Citizens of the United States can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days. Documents checklist and application steps.
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/costa-rica/united-states
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# Costa Rica visa for citizens of the United States

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

*Not yet verified · last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

> 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.

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Visa-free
- **How to apply:** No visa needed — just go
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Government fee:** No visa fee
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required

## How to apply

1. **Arrive at Costa Rican border** — Present your passport and any requested documents to the immigration officer for entry.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid U.S. Passport** (Identity): Must be valid for the duration of stay.
- **Return or onward ticket** (Travel): Proof of departure from Costa Rica.
- **Proof of sufficient funds** (Financial, 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Costa Rica visa for every passport](/visa/costa-rica)
- [Every destination for United States passport holders](/visa/passport/united-states)