Costa Rica: Covid-19 Entry Requirements For Travelers

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Last Updated 4 days ago

Costa 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 Not Required

As of October 26, PCR testing is NO LONGER REQUIRED for tourists entering Costa Rica

Quarantine Entry Requirements 

No quarantine is required.

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, and comes with hotel accommodation quarantine insurance, and is at least 5 days in duration.

2021 Update: One of our favorite insurance providers HeyMondo now includes coverage with their Premium level insurance that meets Costa Rica’s requirements.

Tourists can 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. 

**Vaccination Exemption as of August 2021** Fully vaccinated passengers do not have to comply with the travel insurance requirement. 14 days must have passed since the last treatment and only with J&J, AstraZeneca, Moderna, or Pfizer.

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
• Updated August 2021: beaches will now be open from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00pm.  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. However, starting December 1, 2021, a vaccine passport is expected to start, which will include tourists providing the need to show proof of vaccination to access businesses and services.

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:

1. Complete online Health Pass form
2. Check if you need a visa for entry to Costa Rica.
3. Obtain travel health insurance that covers Covid
4. Follow all health protocols while in Costa Rica

↓ Read More: 

Countries Reopening For American Tourists

Countries Reopening For Canadian Tourists

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19

For Breaking Travel Reopening News & Questions, Join Our: Facebook Community

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

Originally Published September 24, 2020 with updates.