Kashlee KucheranCosta Rica is open for tourism!
Known for the ‘Pura Vida' way of life, unlimited outdoor adventure activities, lush national parks, super-chill beaches, and affordable prices, its no wonder Costa Rica welcomed over 3 million tourists last year.
However, Costa Rica's tourism has been devastated by the pandemic this year with months of strict closures and nation-wide lockdowns. Thankfully, tourism is slowly starting to recover since the country is once again welcoming tourists with open arms.
Below are all the latest COVID-19 entry requirements and everything travelers need to know before booking their trip to Costa Rica.
Countries Allowed To Travel to Costa Rica
Since August 1st, select international travelers have been permitted to enter Costa Rica, arriving at these three international airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport, Daniel Oduber Quirós Airport, and Tobías Bolaños Airport.
Residents of the following countries are permitted to visit:
As of November 1, 2020 = ALL Countries
(Previous to November 1, only a certain list of countries were permitted to enter, but now they have removed the country lists and all nations are welcome under ‘normal/pre-covid' visa requirements.)
Health Pass Authorization To Visit Costa Rica
All travelers must fill out an electronic Health Pass before departure.
Once the form is completed, a QR code will be generated to show customs upon arrival.
COVID-19 Testing Entry Requirements
PCR Test Required
All travelers entering Costa Rica will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate, taken no longer than 72 hours prior to the flight departure time.
Important Update: As of October 26, PCR testing is NO LONGER REQUIRED for tourists entering Costa Rica
Quarantine Entry Requirements
All travelers who comply with the above 72-Hour PCR test requirement will NOT have to quarantine upon arrival, providing they are asymptomatic.
After October 26: the PCR test will be gone, but still passengers will not have to quarantine.
Transit Rules
If a traveler from an approved country listed above has a lay-over/transit in a NON-approved country/state, they can still enter as long as:
- They do not leave the airport
- The transit is no longer than 12 hours
COVID-19 Travel Insurance Entry Requirements
The government of Costa Rica has stated that no tourist can enter without having the proper travel insurance that also covers covid.
There are two national insurance providers they suggest:
Tourists can also choose their own insurance provider, as long as the policy meets three particular criteria: 1- It is in effect for the full length of the trip, 2- $50,000 USD worth of Covid-19 medical coverage, 3- $2000 USD coverage for lodging expenses as a result of the pandemic.
COVID-19 Health Requirements While in Costa Rica
All visitors must follow these COVID-19 health requirements while in Costa Rica:
- Wearing a mask in all indoor public spaces and on public transportation
- Follow social distancing markers and instructions
- Public beaches are open until 2:30pm daily. Updated October 15: beaches will now be open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends. Masks are not required on the beach.
COVID-19 Vaccine Entry Requirements
Costa Rica has not announced any mandates on a proof of vaccine record for entry.
Visa Entry Requirements For Costa Rica During COVID-19
All travelers arriving in Costa Rica will need to follow regular visa requirements.
Countries like: USA, Canada, UK, Mexico, and most of Europe have visa-free access.(shown in navy blue on map below)
Travelers that require a visa must apply at the Costa Rican embassy/consulate in their home country.
Credit: Gorden Cheng
Costa Rica Covid-19 Entry Requirements:
- Complete online Health Pass form
- Check if you need a visa for entry to Costa Rica.
- Get proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test, performed no longer than 72 hours before departure (after Oct 26, no testing required!)
- Obtain travel health insurance that covers Covid
- Follow all health protocols while in Costa Rica
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Sources: Ministry of Health / presidencia.go.cr / Costa Rica Tourism Board /
Disclaimer: Costa Rica's travel rules are changing without notice and being updated constantly. We do our best to keep this article up to date with all the latest information, but the decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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Originally Published September 24, 2020 with updates.
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