FAQ
We often get emails from readers asking questions about Costa Rica so we put a list of FAQ for you. I hope you enjoy.
What are the entry requirements?
All visitors are required to carry a valid passport. Citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European countries are issued a free tourist visa which permits them to stay in Costa Rica for 90 days.
Do I need a passport to go to Costa Rica?
A valid passport is mandatory to enter Costa Rica. It should be valid during the following 6 months from the entry date to Costa Rica.
Do I need a visa to go to Costa Rica?
USA, Canada and most European countries have the privilege of entering Costa Rica without a visa.
Can I enter Costa Rica with a one-way ticket?
All visitors must have a round trip ticket as an entry requirement.
What are the customs regulations?
Costa Rican law requires that baggage be examined and that travelers submit customs declarations listing all articles acquired abroad, including fruit, vegetables, meat, meat products, biological products such as vaccinations, serums, etc. In the case of families, the family head can fill out one declaration.
Do I need an international driver’s license to drive in Costa Rica?
You are allowed to drive with your normal driver’s license for the duration of your tourist visa.
What is the time zone in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is the same as U.S. Central Standard Time (UTC-06), but does not observe daylight savings time.
How is the weather in Costa Rica?
Be prepared for sunshine, rain, cool mountain breezes, and muggy jungle mists depending on where and when you visit our country. Due to our topography, we have a variety of variety of micro-climates.
Click here for Costa Rica Weather info
What are the business hours?
Most banks are open from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and do not close for lunch. Government offices are open from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Most commercial businesses open from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Stores and other businesses at commercial centers from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Most restaurants open from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm. Hotels and some restaurants are open 24 hours.
Is there a good communication system?
Direct-dial telephone service, facsimile, radio and cable television are all available. Bilingual operator assistance for international calls is: 116, local information: 113, long distance information: 124. Internet cafes are available in most towns and hotels.
Is driving a good idea?
Many people love driving and visiting the country at their own pace.
Click here for Driving in Costa Rica Information
Is bus transportation available?
Costa Rica has a bus system that offers inexpensive, timely and convenient transportation in the Central Valley.
What are the medical concerns and suggested vaccines?
There are no plagues like in other countries and no special vaccine recommendations for travelers more than the influenza and the tetanus vaccines. Hospitals and the Red Cross will provide any medical treatment in case of emergency.
How much should I tip?
Taxi drivers generally do not receive a tip. If you are satisfied with the service you receive, private drivers, tourist guides, maids and bell boys would be glad to receive a tip. The amount would be totally up to you. Restaurants will add a 10% service charge to your bill, so read it before paying a tip.
About Reservation Policies
Hotels, Car Rental and tours can usually be reserved within less than 24 hours to your arrival but guarantee of space will be effective only at the time that you have sent a deposit payment and received confirmation.
Can I get married in Costa Rica? What documents do I need?
Foreigners can get married in Costa Rica. The documents needed are: – original birth certificate – affidavit of single status – police record – valid passport – divorce decree (if applicable) – These documents need to follow the authentication procedure before being taken to Costa Rica.
What is the difference between the rain forest and the cloud forest?
The main difference is that in the cloud forest doesn’t rain as much as in the rain forest. The species of flora and fauna that you might find differ from one to the other.
Is the water drinkable in Costa Rica?
The water is potable in most of the country. We recommend using bottled water in coastal and rural areas.
Is there a train service in Costa Rica?
There is a commuter train system in the Central Valley connecting San Jose with nearby communities. In addition, Transfeco operates regular train tours. For information and reservations for train tours call (506)2258-1765.
What is the currency in Costa Rica?
The Costa Rican currency is called Colón. US dollars and major credit cards are widely accepted.
Are credit cards accepted in Costa Rica?
All major credit cards are widely accepted. You will find ATMs distributed throughout the country, many of which can dispense either US dollar or local currency.
Do I need an electric adapter for a hair drier?
Outlets are 110 V, with standard North American layout. Many older structures have 2-prong plugs only.
What documents are required to enter with a pet to Costa Rica?
Dogs and cats entering Costa Rica must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, endorsed by a veterinarian service (VS) veterinarian. The examination for the certificate must be conducted within the two weeks prior to traveling to Costa Rica. The required vaccinations are: distemper, hepatitis, lestospirosis, parvovirus and rabies (for animals 4 months or older.
How much is he departure tax?
Departure tax is $26, can be paid in US Dollars, colones or with a credit card.
How can I get a working visa?
You must apply for a working visa at the Costa Rican Consulate.
How can I apply for legal residency in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica offers different ways to legalize your status.
Click here for information on getting your residency
Are the national parks wheelchair accessible?
The Poas Volcano National Park is the only one that offers access for wheel chairs.
Is there an American Legion in Costa Rica?
There is an American Legion for people who went to the army. You can also contact The Association of Residents at: (506)2233-8068 or at www.casacanada.net
If I decided to stay longer, can I get a visa while I am there?
You only need to leave the country for 72 hours; upon returning to Costa Rica the permit will be renewed automatically for 90 more days.
Are there domestic airlines that travel within the country?
You can contact SANSA at www.flysansa.com (506)2221-9414 or Nature Air at www.natureair.com (506) 2220-3054.
What is the sales tax in Costa Rica?
Sales tax is 13%. Most retail price tags include this tax.
What number should I dial in case of emergency?
Dial 911 for immediate assistance.
Which are Costa Rica’s natural boundaries?
- North: Nicaragua – South:Panama – East:Caribbean Sea – West: Pacific Ocean
How is Costa Rica politically divided?
Costa Rica is divided into 7 provinces: San Jose, Heredia, Alajuela, Cartago, Limon, Puntarenas and Guanacaste.
Diana Wilson
