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.

See the Embassy of Costa Rica’s website for the most current visa information.

General Entry Requirements:

• Passport valid for duration of stay. Immigration may deny entry if 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 permit stays up to 180 days without a visa but are not required to do so. Be sure to leave by your required date of departure. Immigration authorities may fine foreigners who overstay their visas. Any overstay may cause delays, deportation, and/or denial of entry to Costa Rica in the future.

Entry and Exit for Minor Children: All children born in Costa Rica acquire Costa Rican citizenship at birth. All Costa Rican minors must have an exit permit issued by immigration authorities to depart 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.

Indebtedness: If you owe money in Costa Rica, you may not be allowed to leave. This includes bills from car accidents or medical bills. 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.

For dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs, see our websites.

Crime: Petty theft and pickpocketing are common crimes affecting U.S. travelers. More serious crimes, like sexual assault and murder, have also taken place. Armed robbers usually want your smartphone, wallet, or purse. If someone with a weapon confronts you, you are recommended not to resist. Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach to go into the water or in an unlocked room. Do not leave valuables in an unattended vehicle. Even a locked car in an area with parking attendants can be a target. Police recommend travelers physically check car doors are locked because thieves have used jammers to block car key fobs. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially after dark. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight.

The Embassy has received reports of robberies at isolated rental properties. Make sure your rental has adequate security and lock all doors and windows.

See the Costa Rica Country Security Report (osac.gov) for an overview of crime in Costa Rica.

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

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the United States Embassy at +506 2519-2000 or acssanjose@state.gov. 

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. Authorities will only investigate and prosecute a crime if the victim files a police report (denuncia). The Costa Rican Investigative Police (OIJ) is responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes that occur in Costa Rica.

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

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

 Victims of Sexual Assault: Please dial 911 for local law enforcement assistance. U.S. citizen victims are encouraged to contact the United States Embassy for further assistance by dialing +506 2519-2000 or acssanjose@state.gov  

Victims of Rape: Please dial 911 for local law enforcement assistance and to start Costa Rica’s support protocol. The protocol includes time-sensitive medical treatment and evidence collection. U.S. citizen victims are encouraged to contact the United States Embassy for further assistance by dialing +506 2519-2000 or acssanjose@state.gov

U.S. Embassy San Jose can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Explain the crime reporting procedure
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. In certain cases, emergency loans may also include assistance with temporary lodging.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

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.

Tourism: The Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) website 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. Check our section on Medical Insurance under “Health” below. 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.

Tourism: The tourism industry is regulated, and rules are enforced. Inspections take place on a regular basis, but some tour operators are not registered. Hazardous areas or activities are not always identified with appropriate signs. Medical treatment is available, but traffic and road conditions can delay access to remote areas. U. S. citizens should consider medical evacuation insurance.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should first contact 911. Victims should also contact the Embassy for assistance.

Students and Volunteers: See safety and security information provided by your host. Students and volunteers have been victims of serious crimes. You can file a complaint to Costa Rica’s Tourism Commission. Their phone is 800-TURISMO from Costa Rica or 011-506-2299-5800 from the United States. Their email is contactenos@ict.go.cr.

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

Natural Disasters: Costa Rica is in an active earthquake and volcanic zone.

• Three volcanoes, two near San Jose and one in the northwest, have become more active. 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, see:

• U.S. Embassy Costa Rica website. The Embassy also sends out emergency information via e-mail, text, and/or 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, see:

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

Demonstrations are common in Costa Rica. Protests or strikes can affect transportation, fuel supplies, and other public services. Foreigners are not allowed to take part 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.

Criminal Penalties: You must follow local laws. If you break them, you could be deported, arrested, or put in jail. Some crimes can be prosecuted in the United States even if they happen abroad. Check our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. 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 bribes. If this happens, do not argue. Write down the officer's name and any numbers on their uniform or car. Report the incident by calling “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/Drugs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or 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/Sex Tourism: Promoting or facilitating 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 local authorities to notify the Embassy right away. See our webpage for more information. People accused of serious crimes can be held before trial. Because local prisons are crowded, courts may instead put you on home arrest. This means 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 may be illegal in Costa Rica. You could face fines and/or have to give up the goods when you arrive in the United States. See 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 – see country reports
•  Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Costa Rica has no legal restrictions on same-sex relations or LGBTI events. See our LGBTI Travel Information page. See section 6 of our Human Rights report for more.

Travelers Who Need Accessibility Assistance: 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: See our Students Abroad page and 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 can also be restricted from entering the country.

Real Estate: Be very 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: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Emergency services in Costa Rica:

• Dial 911 for emergencies. 
• Ambulance services are available, but they may lack the advanced emergency equipment typically found in the U.S.

 Health facilities in general:

• In San José, medical care is usually good. Outside of San José, services may be limited. Some places 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.

Medicine:

• Check with the Costa Rican Ministry of Health to ensure your medicine is approved for local sale.
• 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.

The United States Government does not pay medical bills of private citizens overseas. United States Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U. S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas will require payment up front and will only accept cash. See our webpage for more on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the CDC for more on travel insurance. 

• It is important to have insurance to cover medical evacuation. An air evacuation 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 our Embassy website. We do not endorse any specific doctors or clinics. 

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

Passengers coming from some countries in South America or Africa must show proof of yellow fever 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. Understand that medical systems abroad are different than in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone traveling for medical purposes should consult with their physician before traveling.

Visit the CDC website for information on Medical Tourism, its risks, and what you can do to prepare. 

Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Costa Rica. 

Costa Rica has many elective and cosmetic surgery facilities that can match those in the United States, but the quality of care can vary. If you’re considering surgery in Costa Rica, make sure that emergency medical services are accessible. Make sure the professionals you choose are accredited and qualified. Always do your research to make informed decisions about your health.

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: 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). Their phone number is 800-8000-645 and email is denuncias.drpis@misalud.go.cr. You can also call the National Center for Intoxicants at 2223-1028 or 800-INTOXICA (4686-9422). If you are the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation, you should notify the U.S. Embassy in San Jose at +506-2519-2000. You can 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: If you are considering traveling to Costa Rica to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page. 

Water Quality: Tap water is often not safe to drink. Bottled water is a better choice. Many places may serve tap water unless you ask for bottled. Be aware that ice for drinks may be using 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 high risk from poor air quality include children, seniors, people with health conditions, and people exercising outside. Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

Other Health Information: Diseases like dengue, zika, chikungunya, and malaria are present. 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.

The Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) has an English and Spanish language pamphlet with tips for safe driving in Costa Rica.

Road Conditions and Safety: Be careful when driving. Roads can be in poor condition. Roads can have unclear lane markings, narrow shoulders, and large potholes. Signs may not be very clear, and 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 very 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, which could take several hours. Ongoing investigations may prevent you from leaving the country for months.

Public Transportation: Be aware of your surroundings when using public transport. Avoid showing expensive items, like jewelry, and keep your bags close. 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.

See our Road Safety page 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.