Zambia passport → Costa Rica

Costa Rica visa for citizens of Zambia

Embassy / VFS

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

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

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

1
Check visa exemption eligibility
If holding a valid visa/residence permit from EU, EFTA, Canada, UK, or US, you may not need a visa.
2
Prepare required documents
Gather all documents as per the list above.
3
Contact nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate
Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, may handle Zambian applications. Schedule an appointment.
4
Submit application in person
Attend appointment with completed forms and documents.
5
Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
Biometrics are required for visa issuance.
6
Pay visa fee
Fee amount varies; pay as directed by the embassy.
7
Wait for processing
Processing can take several weeks.
8
Collect passport with visa
Visa is affixed in passport. Travel is permitted for up to 90 days.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
Must have at least two blank pages.
Completed visa application form
Obtain from Costa Rican embassy or consulate.
Passport-sized photographs (2x2 inches)
Usually two recent photos.

Travel

Proof of onward/return ticket
Flight itinerary showing departure from Costa Rica.
Proof of accommodation
Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host.
Travel medical insurance
Covering the entire stay.

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements for the last 3 months.

Employment

Letter of employment or proof of ties
Demonstrate intent to return to Zambia.

Supporting

Valid visa/residence permit from EU, EFTA, Canada, UK, or US (if applicable)
Optional
If held, visa-free entry for 90 days is possible instead.
Criminal record certificate
Optional
May be requested by embassy.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient to cover stay

Bank statements

Amount not specified; typically enough for accommodation and expenses.

Good to know

Visa application must be made well in advance as processing times may be long.
If you hold a valid visa/residence permit from EU, EFTA, Canada, UK, or US, you may enter visa-free for up to 90 days.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete documentation

Double-check all required documents before appointment.

Insufficient funds

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance.

Criminal record or security concerns

Obtain a police clearance certificate if requested.

FAQ

Do citizens of Zambia need a visa for Costa Rica?

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

How long can citizens of Zambia stay in Costa Rica?

Up to 90 days.

What documents do citizens of Zambia need for Costa Rica?

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity); Completed visa application form; Passport-sized photographs (2x2 inches); Proof of onward/return ticket; Proof of accommodation; Proof of sufficient funds; and 4 more.

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.

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