U.S. Embassy San José

Calle 98, Via 104
Pavas
San José, Costa Rica
Telephone: + (506) 2519-2000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (506) 2220-3127
Fax: + (506) 2220-2455
Email: ACSSanJose@state.gov
Routine American Citizens Services appointments available online.

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Exit, entry and visa requirements

Helpful resources

• Embassy of Costa Rica
• Dual Nationality
• Prevention of International Child Abduction
• Customs Regulations

General entry requirements

• A valid passport for the duration of your stay. Immigration may deny your entry if the passport is damaged.
• Return ticket or proof of onward travel to another country.
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from certain countries in South America or Africa.

Tourist stays up to 180 days
Authorities may allow visitors to stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days without a visa, but this is not guaranteed. 

• Make sure to leave by your required departure date. 
• If you stay longer than allowed, immigration authorities could fine you. 
• If you overstay, this could lead to delays and deportation. They can also deny you entry to Costa Rica in the future.

Entry and exit for minor children

• All children born in Costa Rica get Costa Rican citizenship at birth. 
• All Costa Rican minors must have an exit permit from immigration to leave the country.
• Non-Costa Rican minor children who are residents of Costa Rica may also be subject to this rule. This is strictly enforced. 

Parents of minors born in Costa Rica should consult Costa Rican immigration authorities before traveling.

Debts 
If you owe money in Costa Rica, authorities may not allow you to leave.  This includes unpaid bills from car accidents or medical costs.  

If you owe child support in Costa Rica, you may need to pay up to 13 months of support before leaving.

Documentation requirements
Always carry copies of your ID and immigration papers.  

Local authorities may ask for your original passport and documents.  They can detain you to check your identity and immigration status.

Emergency numbers
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. 

• For the police in Costa Rica dial 911. 
• To contact the U.S. embassy dial +506 2519-2000 or email  acssanjose@state.gov  
• For an overview of crime in Costa Rica: Costa Rica Country Security Report  (source: osac.gov)

Crime 

• Petty theft and pickpocketing are common crimes for U.S. travelers. More serious crimes, like sexual assault and murder, have also happened.
• Armed robbers often target smartphones, wallets, or purses. If someone with a weapon confronts you, don't resist.
• Never leave valuables unattended on the beach or in an unlocked room.
• Don't leave valuables in an unattended vehicle.
• Even a locked car in a parking area can be a target. Always check that car doors are locked, as thieves can block key fobs with jammers.
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables out of sight.
• People have reported robberies at isolated rental properties. Ensure your rental has good security and lock all doors and windows.

Review the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on international financial scams.

Victims of crime
The Costa Rican Investigative Police (OIJ) is responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.  But they will only act if the victim files a police report (denuncia). 

• For the local police dial 911 
• For the United States Embassy (after contacting local authorities) dial +506 2519-2000 
• To file a police report (denuncia): Visit the local office of the OIJ (Investigative Police.)  You can find the closest location through the OIJ app ‘OIJ CR Safe.’  

In the following locations, Tourist Police can provide limited assistance to start the process: 

• San Jose city office – Central Park
• Airports
• Puerto Viejo Beach
• Cahuita Beach
• Tamarindo Beach
• Brasilito Beach
• Flamingo Beach
• Nosara Beach
• Santa Teresa Beach
• Dominical Beach
• El Coco Beach

Visit our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.  

Victims of sexual assault

• For the police dial 911 
• To contact the U.S. embassy dial +506 2519-2000 or email  acssanjose@state.gov   

Victims of rape

• To contact the U.S. embassy dial +506 2519-2000 or email  acssanjose@state.gov   
• For local law enforcement assistance and to start Costa Rica’s support protocol dial 911 

The protocol includes time-sensitive medical treatment and evidence collection.  

The Department of State provides help for U.S. victims of crime overseas. 

U.S. Embassy in San Jose can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport. 
• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information about the victim’s role during local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Share a list of local attorneys (does not imply endorsement).
• Inform you of victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Issue an emergency loan for repatriation to the U.S. and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.

A police report with a case number is necessary for case follow up, insurance claims, and waiving of rebooking fees on certain airlines.  Check with airlines regarding their rebooking policies.

Beach safety 

• Rip currents in Costa Rica are very dangerous. They are responsible for several drownings of U.S. tourists each year. 
• Most beaches do not have lifeguards or warnings about unsafe conditions.  
• Do not swim alone or dive into water of unknown depth.  
• Avoid alcohol while swimming.  
• Do not walk alone or go into the water at night. 
• For water sports, only take lessons or rent equipment from certified tour companies. 
• Ask your hotel or host about beach safety before you go.  
• All beaches in Costa Rica are open to the public. You should not leave valuables unattended while you go into the water.  
• Double check that your car is locked. Thieves often use signal blockers to prevent your key fobs from working.

Costa Rican authorities have lifeguard presence at the following locations.  These stations, however, may be far apart, poorly equipped, and with limited visibility.

Pacific Coast:

• Manuel Antonio Beach
• Caldera Beach
• Esterillos Oeste Beach
• Bahia Ballena Beach
• Ventanas Beach
• Tamarindo Beach

Caribbean Coast:

• Cocles Beach
• Manzanillo Beach
• Negra Beach (Limon)
• Punta Uva Beach

Further resources on beach safety and rip currents:

• The Oceanographic Information Module 
• NOAA National Weather Service's Rip Current Toolkit

Tourism

The tourism industry is regulated, and rules are enforced.  

• Inspections take place on a regular basis, but some tour operators are not registered. 
• Dangerous areas or activities are not always marked with signs.  
• Medical treatment is available, but traffic and road conditions can delay access to remote areas.  

U. S. citizens should consider medical evacuation insurance. 

The Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) has a list of Certified Tour Guides.  

ICT also has safety and security information in these English and Spanish language pamphlets.

Adventure sports
Some tour operators may not follow international standards and best practices.  

• Be careful when doing adventure activities such as hiking, rafting, zip lining, or sky diving.  
• U. S. citizens have died in Costa Rica while doing adventure sports.  
• Make sure your medical insurance covers your sport.  
• The Ministry of Health maintains a list of approved adventure sports operators.
• Do not do adventure sports alone.  
• Always carry ID and let others know where you are.  
• Before kayaking and rafting, check river conditions and wear a life jacket and helmet.  Even popular rafting spots can become dangerous in flash floods. 
• Carry a first aid kit and know where the nearest rescue center is.  
• Follow all local or park rules and be careful in unknown places.

Hiking
Follow signs in national parks and stay on marked trails. It can be hard for first responders to find missing people in remote areas.

To hike in national parks, you should:

• Register with the park
• Have an entry permit
• Use a certified tour operator. The Costa Rican Tourist Institute (ICT) has information on Certified Tour Guides.

Domestic violence

• For local law enforcement assistance dial 911 
• To contact the U.S. embassy dial +506 2519-2000 or email acssanjose@state.gov (after contacting local authorities). 

Students and volunteers 
To file a complaint to Costa Rica’s Tourism Commission: 

• From Costa Rica dial 800-TURISMO 
• From the United States dial 011-506-2299-5800 or email contactenos@ict.go.cr

Review safety and security information provided by your host. Students and volunteers have suffered serious crimes.

For more information, review our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Demonstrations 
Demonstrations are common in Costa Rica. 

Protests or strikes can affect transportation, fuel supplies, and other public services. Foreigners are not allowed to participate in public demonstrations. If you do, you might be detained or deported.

• Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent.
• Avoid areas where protests are happening.
• Check local news for updates and traffic information.

Weather and Natural Disasters

Costa Rica is in an active earthquake and volcanic zone.  

• Three volcanoes have become more active:  Rincon de la Vieja, Turrialba, and Poas.  Eruptions from Turrialba can disrupt air traffic and cause breathing issues. Follow park service guidance and alerts about volcanic activity. Never try to climb or access an active volcano without permission.
• Tsunamis can happen after significant earthquakes.
• Flooding is common in the rainy season (April to October). The most affected provinces are Limon, Puntarenas, and Guanacaste.
• Flash floods and severe landslides occur in many parts of Costa Rica. Do not drive into water if you don’t know how deep it is.
• Wildfires commonly occur between January and the end of May. Affected areas include Guanacaste and the northern region but can affect other areas of the country. Follow guidance from Government of Costa Rica authorities on preventing wildfires and follow evacuation routes.

For information concerning disasters:

• U.S. Embassy Costa Rica  The Embassy also sends out emergency information via e-mail, text, Radio Dos (FM 99.5) or Radio Columbia (FM 98.7.)
• U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) general information about natural disaster preparedness. 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) information on disease.
• U.S. Geological Survey updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity.

For more information about natural disasters, volcanic activity, and wildfires in Spanish: 

• Costa Rican National Emergency Commission
• Costa Rican Volcanic and Seismic Observatory
• Costa Rica National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC)

Criminal penalties 
U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 

• If you break laws, even by mistake, you could be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. 
• You may be prosecuted in the U.S. for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. 
• Learn more about examples of crimes against minors abroad and information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice.
• If you want to start a business in Costa Rica, talk to local authorities about the permits you need.

The Embassy has received reports of impostors impersonating police officers and asking for money. If this happens, do not argue. Write down the officer's name and any numbers on their uniform or car. Report the incident by dialing 911.

Hallucinogens
Ayahuasca, kambo, and other dangerous hallucinogens are sometimes offered to travelers as part of spiritual ceremonies or rituals.  

• These substances are not regulated by the Costa Rican Ministry of Health and are illegal in the United States.  
• Exercise extreme caution if you choose to participate in a spiritual ceremony or ritual. 
• U. S. citizens have been victims of sexual assault, serious injury, and theft while under the influence of these substances. 

Be aware that you may put your safety at risk if you take part in a ceremony that uses ayahuasca or other hallucinogens.  

Alcohol and drugs  

• Drunk driving or while on drugs is illegal.  
• You can get heavy fines and jail time for having, using, or selling illegal drugs.  
• Marijuana and marijuana-related products are illegal in Costa Rica. 

Prostitution and sex tourism
Promoting or helping someone with prostitution is illegal.  Local laws on human trafficking and child exploitation have very harsh penalties, including fines and jail time.

Arrest notification
If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to inform the U.S. Embassy in the San Jose.

• People accused of serious crimes can be held before trial.  
• Because local prisons are crowded, courts may instead put you on home arrest.  (You cannot leave Costa Rica and must check in with judicial authorities).  
• You have the right to a public defender and a translator for most hearings. 

Judicial process 
Local court cases take longer than in the United States.  Civil cases usually take more than five years to finish.

Counterfeit and pirated goods
Counterfeit and pirated goods are illegal in Costa Rica.  

You could face fines or have to give up the goods when you arrive in the United States. Visit the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based travelers
See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – Review country reports
• Human Rights Report – Review country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGB travelers
Costa Rica has no legal restrictions on same-sex relations or LGB events.  

• LGB Traveler Information
• Human Rights report (Section 6)

Travelers with disabilities
Costa Rica has limited accessibility and accommodation.  

• Many buildings are not accessible.  
• The Costa Rican Ombudsman’s Office has received complaints about accessibility.  
• There also are reports of broken wheelchair lifts on public transportation. 

Students

• Students Abroad  
• FBI travel tips

Residency
U. S. citizens who want to live or stay long-term in Costa Rica should seek local legal guidance.  

• A qualified attorney can advise you on the requirements for legal residency.  
• U.S. citizens who misuse their tourist status to live in Costa Rica can be deported and banned from entering the country.

Real estate
Be cautious with real estate purchases or investments.  

• Consult with reputable legal counsel and review the contract completely. 
• The Embassy cannot assist you with land or business disputes; you must be prepared to take your case to the local courts.
• Civil records of land titles can be incomplete or contradictory.  
• Coastal land within 50 meters of the high tide line is public space. This land is closed to development. The next 150 meters inland (“Maritime Zone”) cannot be owned by foreign nationals. Land in this zone is governed by the local municipality.  
• The Costa Rican government has taken private land from some U.S. investors without enough or timely compensation.

Property owners should keep their property secure. Squatter groups have taken over properties. They use laws that let them claim unused land. Victims have reported threats, harassment, and violence.

Check the Embassy’s website for a list of local lawyers. 

Women Travelers

• Tips for Women Travelers.

Health Resources

• Costa Rica Traveler Information (source: CDC)
• Health Traveler Information (source: CDC)
• Medical Tourism information (source: CDC)
• Insurance Coverage Overseas (source: Department of State)

Emergency services
For emergencies dial 911

Ambulance services 
Ambulances might not have all the advanced emergency equipment you would expect. 

Health facilities
In San José, medical care is usually good. Outside of San José, services may be limited. 

• Some healthcare facilities might lack basic medical equipment.
• Hospitals and doctors often need payment “up front” before service or admission.
• Private hospitals usually want payment or proof of insurance before treating you.
• In public hospitals, medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• In public hospitals, only a few staff members may be present overnight. We recommend you request permission for a family member to stay with you

Prescription medications
Check the Costa Rican Ministry of Health to ensure your medicine is approved and sold locally.

• Bring enough medication for your trip.  
• Some medications are not available and cannot be sent in the mail to Costa Rica. 
• Carry your prescription medicine in the original packaging with a copy of your prescription.  
• Buy medicine in consultation with a doctor and from reputable establishments. 
• Medicine that is bought overseas needs to meet U.S. requirements to be taken back to the United States.  

Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Medical payments and insurance
The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. 

• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work overseas.
• Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance available.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. An air ambulance flight can cost $50,000 and will often take place only after full payment is provided. 

Costa Rica reserves the right to prevent the departure of people with unpaid bills.

The embassy has a list of doctors and hospitals on the embassy website. We do not endorse any specific doctors or clinics. 

Vaccinations
Stay up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the CDC. 

Yellow fever: Passengers coming from some countries in South America or Africa must show proof of vaccination.

Medical tourism and elective surgery
U.S. citizens have had serious issues, and some have died during or after cosmetic or elective surgery.

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. 
• Medical systems abroad are different than the United States. They are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  
• Anyone traveling for medical purposes should consult with their physician before traveling.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Costa Rica.

Visit the CDC website for information on Medical Tourism, its risks, and what you can do to prepare. Costa Rica has many elective and cosmetic surgery facilities that can match those in the United States. The quality of care can vary. 

If you’re considering surgery in Costa Rica:  

• Make sure that emergency medical services are accessible.
• Do your research to make informed decisions about your health. 
• Make sure that the professionals you choose are accredited and qualified.  

Confirm that:

• Clinics and doctors will be able to provide an acceptable level of care. 
• Your insurance will cover any related or emergency costs. 
• You understand the costs and terms of payment for treatment. 

For clinics offering alternative treatments, do your research. Unverified alternative treatments have led to hospitalization. Wellness centers are often not verified.

Alcohol
To report unregulated or tainted alcohol to police dial 800-8000-645 (OIJ) or email denuncias.drpis@misalud.go.cr

For National Center for Intoxicants dial 2223-1028 or 800-INTOXICA (4686-9422) 

For Embassy of San Jose (victims of health violations) dial +506-2519-2000

• Drink alcohol in moderation.  
• There have been reports of tainted alcohol causing serious health issues.  
• If you feel sick after drinking, call 911 immediately.  

Costa Rica asks you to report the sale of unregulated or tainted alcohol to the Investigative Police (OIJ).  If you are the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation: 

• Notify the U.S. Embassy in San Jose at +506-2519-2000.  
• Contact the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries).  The Bureau is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Assisted reproductive technology and surrogacy (ART)
If you are considering traveling to Costa Rica to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please visit ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality

• Tap water is often not safe to drink.  
• Ask for bottled water when possible.  
• Many places may serve tap water unless you ask for bottled water. 
• Ice drinks may be made with tap water. 

Adventure travel 
Visit the CDC website for more information about Adventure Travel. 

Air quality
The air quality varies and changes with the seasons.  People at highest risk from particle pollution: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• Citizens over 65 years of age 
• Have lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. 
• Have heart disease or diabetes Work or are active outdoors

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast, which uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Costa Rica. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Prevalent diseases

• Dengue
• Zika
• Chikungunya
• Malaria  

The use of repellent is recommended. 

Follow standard procedures to protect yourself from HIV/AIDS.

For more information, you can visit the CDC and WHO websites about traveling in Costa Rica.

Helpful resources

• Driving and Road Safety Abroad (source: Department of State)  
• Tips for Safe Driving in Costa Rica (source: Costa Rica Tourism Institute) 

Road conditions and safety
Driving conditions vary across the country. Drive with extreme caution:

• Roads can have unclear lane markings, narrow shoulders, and large potholes.  
• Signs may not be very clear. 
• Visibility at intersections may be blocked by vegetation or other obstacles.
• If you have car trouble or a flat tire, find a well-lit and busy location like a gas station to stop. Be careful of strangers offering help, especially in less populated areas.
• Main highways in cities are paved. But roads to beaches and rural areas might not be.  Some places may only be accessible with a four-wheel drive vehicle.
• Drive carefully when crossing moving water, such as riverbeds. Even a small amount of water can make your vehicle unstable.
• During the rainy season, some roads may be blocked due to landslides. If you're staying outside urban areas, check with your hotel about road conditions.
• Try not to drive outside of urban areas at night.
• Expect traffic jams in and around San Jose.
• Motorcyclists may not follow road rules, often passing on the right or weaving through traffic.  
• Buses and cars often stop suddenly.

Bridges
Bridges, even on heavily traveled roads, may be only a single lane.  

• Rural roads sometimes lack bridges.  
• Do not drive through water if you can't see its depth.

Traffic laws
You must have a valid passport and a U.S. driver's license or an international driving permit.

• Fines for routine traffic violations can be over $500 USD.
• Traffic laws, including speed limits, are often ignored. Turn signals are rarely used, and pedestrians don't always have the right of way.
• In the event of a traffic accident, do not move the vehicle. Both the traffic police and an insurance investigator must make accident reports before the vehicles can be moved. 
• Drivers using rental cars should understand their company’s policy in the event of accidents. Rental companies may fine drivers for failing to file a report.

There is a high fatality rate for pedestrians and those riding bicycles or motorcycles. In the event of a traffic fatality, a judge must arrive at the scene to pronounce a person dead. This could take several hours. Ongoing investigations may prevent you from leaving the country for months.

Public transportation
Stay aware of your surroundings when using public transport.  

• Avoid showing expensive items, like jewelry. Keep your bags close to you. 
• You are strongly advised to avoid public buses due to pickpocketing.  
• Use only licensed taxis or well-known ride-sharing services. Never accept rides from unlicensed vehicles.

Visit Road Safety for more information.  Visit the website of Costa Rica’s National Tourist Office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Unpaid traffic tickets
U.S. citizens have reported to the Embassy that car rental companies charge credit cards for unpaid tickets. The embassy cannot help in such cases.

Aviation safety oversight
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Costa Rica’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.    

Maritime travel
Mariners planning travel to Costa Rica should also check the following:  

• U.S. Coast Guard Homeport Directory (source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security)
• U.S. Maritime Advisories (source: U.S. Department of Transportation)
• Active Maritime Alerts (source: MARAD)
• NGA Broadcast Warnings (source: Maritime Safety Information)