---
title: Costa Rica visa for citizens of Zambia
description: Citizens of Zambia need a visa for Costa Rica and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Documents checklist and application steps.
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/costa-rica/zambia
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Costa Rica visa for citizens of Zambia

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

- **Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)** (Identity): Must have at least two blank pages.
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Obtain from Costa Rican embassy or consulate.
- **Passport-sized photographs (2x2 inches)** (Identity): Usually two recent photos.
- **Proof of onward/return ticket** (Travel): Flight itinerary showing departure from Costa Rica.
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host.
- **Proof of sufficient funds** (Financial): Bank statements for the last 3 months.
- **Travel medical insurance** (Travel): Covering the entire stay.
- **Letter of employment or proof of ties** (Employment): Demonstrate intent to return to Zambia.
- **Valid visa/residence permit from EU, EFTA, Canada, UK, or US (if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): If held, visa-free entry for 90 days is possible instead.
- **Criminal record certificate** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Costa Rica visa for every passport](/visa/costa-rica)
- [Every destination for Zambia passport holders](/visa/passport/zambia)