United States Tourist Visa
B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Costa Rica citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a Costa Rican citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the B1/B2 visitor visa application: required documents, current fees of $185, processing times of 3-8 weeks, and strategies to improve your approval chances.
USA Tourist Visa for Costa Rican Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Costa Rica citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US
Complete the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form
Recent passport-sized photograph meeting US visa requirements
Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your trip and living expenses
Documentation proving your employment status and income
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Costa Rica after your visit
In-person interview at the US Embassy in San José
Recommended (Optional)
Details of your planned activities and accommodation in the US
Application Process
All US visa applications from Costa Rica must be processed through the US Embassy in San José.1 The process involves several steps:
1. Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application at ceac.state.gov.4 You will need to upload a digital photo meeting US visa requirements. Save your application ID to complete later if needed.4
2. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the $185 application fee through the approved payment methods.2 Keep your receipt as you will need it to schedule your interview. The fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.2
3. Schedule Interview
Create an account on the US Visa Information Service for Costa Rica to schedule your interview appointment.1 Wait times vary based on demand, so schedule as early as possible.1
4. Attend Interview
Arrive at the US Embassy in San José with all required documents.1 The interview typically lasts 3-5 minutes. Answer questions honestly and concisely about your travel plans and ties to Costa Rica.1
5. Receive Decision
Most decisions are made at the interview. If approved, your passport with the visa will be available for pickup or delivery within a few days.1
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| B1/B2 Application Fee | $185 | Non-refundable |
| Issuance Fee | Varies | Reciprocity-based, may apply |
| Courier Delivery | Optional | Additional fee for passport delivery |
Payment can be made online or at designated payment locations in Costa Rica.2
What You Need to Prove
During your interview, the consular officer will assess whether you meet the requirements for a visitor visa.3 You must demonstrate:
- Genuine travel purpose: Clear, legitimate reason for visiting the US3
- Intent to return: Strong ties to Costa Rica ensuring you will leave after your visit3
- Financial capability: Sufficient funds to cover all travel expenses3
- No immigrant intent: You do not plan to remain in the US permanently3
Processing Times
Current processing times from Costa Rica average 3-8 weeks from the interview date.1 However, interview appointment availability is a key factor. During peak travel seasons, wait times for appointments may be longer.
Factors that may extend processing:
- Additional administrative processing required
- Incomplete documentation
- Background check delays
- High application volume periods
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. The visa shows the validity period and number of entries allowed. At the US border, you may be asked to show:
- Return flight or onward travel plans
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Details of your travel itinerary
The immigration officer determines your actual length of stay, which is stamped on your I-94 arrival record.
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will be informed of the reason under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, typically meaning the officer was not convinced you would return to Costa Rica.3
You can:
- Reapply: Submit a new application with stronger evidence addressing the refusal reason
- Wait for changed circumstances: Apply again when your situation has genuinely changed
- Seek legal consultation: For complex cases, immigration attorneys may help
A refusal does not permanently bar future applications, but you should address the concerns raised before reapplying.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Costa Rica
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Costa Rica after the visit, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure, property documents, evidence of family dependents, and ongoing business or educational commitments.
Inadequate Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show sufficient funds or demonstrate suspicious patterns such as large unexplained deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent income. Avoid large deposits before applying. Balance should clearly cover all trip expenses.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit seems implausible or the applicant cannot clearly articulate why they want to visit the US.
How to avoid: Be specific about your travel plans. If visiting family, bring invitation letters. If tourism, have a clear itinerary of places you want to visit.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the US or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues. Explain what has changed since then and why your circumstances are different now.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or inconsistent information across application materials.
How to avoid: Double-check all documents are included. Ensure information matches across all forms and supporting evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes, Costa Rica is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program. Costa Rican citizens must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes.
How long can I stay in the US on a tourist visa?
The B1/B2 visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at your port of entry.
How long is the US tourist visa valid for Costa Ricans?
US B1/B2 visas for Costa Rican citizens are typically issued for 10 years with multiple entry privileges, though this varies based on individual circumstances.
What is the US tourist visa fee for Costa Ricans in 2025?
The current B1/B2 visa application fee is $185 USD. This fee is non-refundable regardless of whether your visa is approved.
How long does US visa processing take from Costa Rica?
Processing typically takes 3-8 weeks from your interview date. Wait times for interview appointments vary based on demand and can be checked on the US Embassy website.
Can I work on a US tourist visa?
No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of paid employment in the United States. Working without authorization can result in visa revocation and future immigration problems.
What happens if my US visa is refused?
You will receive an explanation of the refusal reason. You can reapply with improved documentation, but there is no formal appeal process for visitor visa refusals.
Do I need to show hotel reservations for my US visa application?
Hotel reservations are helpful but not required. You should be able to explain your accommodation plans during the interview, whether staying at hotels, with family, or friends.