Costa Rica Tourist Visa
Visa de Turismo · For Nicaragua citizens
Planning a trip to Costa Rica as a Nicaraguan citizen? This guide covers the tourist visa application: required documents, fees of $32, processing times of 30-60 days, and tips for approval. Costa Rica requires Nicaraguan citizens to apply for a visa before traveling.
Costa Rica Tourist Visa for Nicaraguan Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Nicaragua citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry to Costa Rica
Complete the official Costa Rican visa application form
Recent passport-style photographs
A letter explaining the purpose of your visit to Costa Rica
Proof of your travel plans including transportation and accommodation
Evidence that you have sufficient funds for your stay in Costa Rica
Criminal background check from Nicaraguan authorities
Proof that you will leave Costa Rica
Recommended (Optional)
Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required
Application Process
Nicaraguan citizens must apply for a Costa Rica tourist visa at a Costa Rican consulate or embassy.2 The process involves several steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents including your passport, photographs, visa request letter, financial proof, police clearance, and travel itinerary.2
2. Complete the Application Form
Fill out the official Costa Rican visa application form completely and accurately. Sign where required.2
3. Submit Your Application
Submit your application via email or in person at the Costa Rican consulate or embassy serving Nicaragua.2 Include all required documents and the $32 visa fee.
4. Wait for Processing
Processing takes 30-60 calendar days from the date all documents are received.2 The consulate may contact you if additional information is needed.
5. Receive Your Visa
Once approved, you will be notified to collect your passport with the visa stamp. Verify the visa validity dates before traveling.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa Application | $32 USD |
The fee is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome.2
What You Need to Prove
Costa Rica requires Nicaraguan applicants to demonstrate:1
- Legitimate travel purpose for visiting Costa Rica
- Sufficient funds for your entire stay (minimum $100 per month)
- Accommodation arrangements during your visit
- Return or onward travel plans showing you will leave
- Strong ties to Nicaragua that will ensure your return
Processing Times
Applications typically take 30-60 calendar days to process once all documents are submitted.2
Factors affecting processing time:
- Completeness of your application
- Current application volumes
- Need for additional documentation
- Embassy or consulate workload
Apply at least 2-3 months before your planned travel date.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, check your visa carefully for:3
- Validity period (when you can enter)
- Duration of stay allowed
- Number of entries permitted
- Your name spelled correctly
At the Costa Rica border, you may need to show:
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Sufficient funds ($100+ per month of stay)
- Your travel itinerary
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is denied:2
- You will receive notification of the refusal
- You must wait at least 6 months before reapplying
- Address the reasons for refusal in your new application
- Gather additional documentation to strengthen your case
Consider consulting with an immigration attorney if you experience repeated denials.
Important Notes
- Overstaying penalties: Fines of $100 per month apply if you exceed your allowed stay3
- Departure tax: A $29 departure tax may apply when leaving by air (often included in ticket price)3
- Health requirements: Check current vaccination requirements, particularly for yellow fever if transiting through affected areas
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or forms that are not properly filled out.
How to avoid: Create a checklist of all required documents and verify each one is complete before submitting. Have someone else review your application.
Insufficient Financial Proof
Unable to demonstrate adequate funds to cover the stay in Costa Rica.
How to avoid: Show at least $100 per day of intended stay. Include bank statements with consistent activity over several months.
Weak Ties to Nicaragua
Application does not show compelling reasons to return to Nicaragua.
How to avoid: Include employment letters, property documents, family certificates, and evidence of ongoing commitments in Nicaragua.
Criminal Record Issues
Police clearance shows criminal history or document is not properly certified.
How to avoid: Ensure your police clearance is recent, properly issued, and apostilled if required.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Visa request letter does not clearly explain the purpose and plans for the visit.
How to avoid: Write a detailed letter explaining exactly why you want to visit, where you will stay, and what you plan to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Nicaraguans need a visa for Costa Rica?
Yes, Nicaraguan citizens must obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Costa Rica. Unlike citizens from visa-exempt countries who can enter without a visa, Nicaraguans must apply at a Costa Rican consulate or embassy.
How long can I stay in Costa Rica with a tourist visa?
The standard tourist visa allows stays of up to 30 days. Overstaying can result in fines of $100 per month and potential difficulties with future visa applications.
How much does the Costa Rica visa cost?
The visa application fee is $32 USD. This must be paid when submitting your application and is non-refundable even if your visa is denied.
How long does Costa Rica visa processing take?
Processing typically takes 30-60 calendar days from when all documents are submitted. Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
Can I extend my Costa Rica tourist visa?
Extensions may be possible through Costa Rica's Immigration office (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería), but you must apply before your visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed.
What if my visa is denied?
If denied, you must wait at least 6 months before reapplying. Address the reasons for denial in your new application with additional documentation.