Prepare

 

A valid passport is required to enter the country. It must NOT EXPIRE within the next 6 months of your arrival. US Airlines should ask to your passport before leaving for Costa Rica. If you arrive with less than 6 valid months left on your passport, you will be denied entry and put back on the plane for an immediate return to the US.

 

Once you pass through Immigration you are permitted to travel with a photocopy of your passport that shows your photo, passport number and entry stamp. When traveling with both, keep the passport and copy in separate locations on your person.

 

As a tourist, you are permitted to remain in Costa Rica for 90 days from the date of your last entry. It was stamped in your passport when you passed through Immigration. Your most recent entry date stamp will be checked as you leave the country and, if you have overstayed your 90 days, you can be prevented from re-entering for a long time. You must leave Costa Rica on or before your 90th day in the country and not return for 3 days. After 3 days, you can re-enter and are welcome to stay for another 90 days.

 

There are strict protocols about bringing food, plant matter, animals, cash or cash equivalents, and goods destined for commercial activity into Costa Rica. All such items are to be declared at Immigration and could be seized, if not properly documented. It is possible to bring a family pet with you, but this requires advance preparation in your home country. Consult with your veterinarian and the nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate a couple of months before your trip.

 

If you have any concerns about restrictions for traveling to Costa Rica from your home (or any other country), please with the nearest, official Costa Rican representative for information.