New Zealand
Costa Rica
Costa Rica visa for New Zealand citizens
Entry requirement
No visa is needed by New Zealand citizens for Costa Rica, for stays of up to 180 days.
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Where to apply
- Nothing to apply for in advance
Checked 7 November 2026 · Passport Index
For longer stays: study, work and residence
Costa Rican citizens travelling to New Zealand
Costa RicaNew Zealand Visa required New Zealand visa for citizens of Costa Rica
Travel advice for Costa Rica
- US State Department Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- UK Foreign Office (FCDO) No advice against travel
- German Foreign Office No travel warning
What the US, British and German foreign ministries tell their own citizens about travelling there, in each ministry’s own terms.
Before travelling from New Zealand to Costa Rica, it helps to know the official travel advice: the US State Department rates Costa Rica at Level 2, exercise increased caution (updated 1 April 2026), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office does not advise against travel to Costa Rica (updated 19 May 2026) and the German Foreign Office has no travel warning for Costa Rica (updated 13 October 2026). The advice is aimed at each government’s own nationals.
Good to know
How long New Zealand citizens can stay in Costa Rica
New Zealand citizens may stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days. The stay granted is recorded on entry to Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s neighbours for New Zealand citizens
Panama and Nicaragua admit New Zealand citizens visa-free.
Costa Rican citizens travelling to New Zealand
New Zealand requires Costa Rican citizens to hold a visa issued in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Do New Zealand citizens need a visa for Costa Rica?
No visa is needed by New Zealand citizens for Costa Rica, for stays of up to 180 days.
How long can New Zealand citizens stay in Costa Rica?
New Zealand citizens can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days.
Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa for New Zealand?
New Zealand requires Costa Rican citizens to hold a visa issued in advance.
Can New Zealand citizens enter Costa Rica visa-free?
Yes, New Zealand citizens can enter Costa Rica without a visa and stay for up to 180 days.
Visa data: Passport Index via passport-index-data, as of 7 November 2026. Rules change, sometimes overnight. Confirm with the embassy or the official government portal before you book.