United States
Costa Rica
Costa Rica visa for US citizens
Entry requirement
Costa Rica admits US citizens without a visa 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 · Confirm at embassycr.org
For longer stays: study, work and residence
Costa Rican citizens travelling to the United States
Costa RicaUnited States Visa required United States 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 the United States 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).
Good to know
How long US citizens can stay in Costa Rica
US 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 US citizens
Panama and Nicaragua admit US citizens visa-free.
Costa Rican citizens travelling to the United States
Costa Rican citizens need a visa for the United States, obtained before travel.
Frequently asked questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Costa Rica?
Costa Rica admits US citizens without a visa for stays of up to 180 days.
How long can US citizens stay in Costa Rica?
US citizens can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days.
Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa for the United States?
Costa Rican citizens need a visa for the United States, obtained before travel.
Can US citizens enter Costa Rica visa-free?
Yes, US 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.