Costa Rica Tourist Entry
Visa Exemption · For United States citizens
Planning a trip to Costa Rica as a US citizen? You can visit visa-free for up to 180 days. No advance application needed. Just bring your valid passport, return ticket, and proof of funds ($100 per month). Costa Rica is one of the most accessible eco-tourism destinations for Americans.
Costa Rica Visa for US Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For United States citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
US passport must be electronically readable and valid for duration of stay
Proof of departure from Costa Rica within 180 days
Evidence of at least $100 USD per month of intended stay
Recommended (Optional)
Required only if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country
Visa-Free Entry for Americans
US citizens can visit Costa Rica visa-free for up to 180 days for tourism or business.1 No advance application, visa fee, or online registration required.
Entry Requirements
- Valid US passport (machine-readable, valid for duration of stay)
- Return or onward ticket showing departure within 180 days
- Proof of funds at least $100 USD per month of stay (credit card usually sufficient)
Proof of Funds
Costa Rica requires $100 USD per month of intended stay.1 A credit card in your name is usually sufficient. Immigration rarely asks for bank statements.
Departure Tax
A $29 USD departure tax applies when leaving by air, but it’s almost always included in your airline ticket price.2
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Required only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country (parts of Africa and South America).2 Not required for direct flights from the USA.
Extending Your Stay
Extensions beyond 180 days are difficult. Most travelers do a “visa run” by leaving to Panama or Nicaragua for at least 72 hours, then returning for a new stamp.
Note: Frequent visa runs may raise suspicion with immigration officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Costa Rica?
No, Americans can visit visa-free for up to 180 days for tourism or business purposes.
What documents do I need to enter Costa Rica?
Valid US passport, return or onward ticket, and proof of funds ($100 per month of stay). A credit card in your name is usually sufficient for funds.
How long can I stay in Costa Rica?
US citizens can stay up to 180 days (6 months) on a tourist visa waiver. The exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at entry.
Is there a departure tax?
Yes, a $29 departure tax applies when leaving by air, but it's usually included in your airline ticket price. Check with your airline.
Do I need travel insurance for Costa Rica?
Not officially required for US citizens, but strongly recommended. Costa Rica has good private healthcare but it can be expensive.
Can I extend my stay beyond 180 days?
Extensions are difficult. Most travelers do a 'visa run' by leaving to Panama or Nicaragua for 72 hours, then returning for a new 180-day stamp.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccine?
Only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Not required for direct flights from the USA.
Can I work on a tourist entry?
No, the tourist visa waiver does not permit employment. You need a work permit and residency for legal employment.
What currency should I bring?
US dollars are widely accepted throughout Costa Rica. The local currency is the Costa Rican colón. ATMs dispense both.