ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS:  For entry into Costa Rica, U.S. citizens must present valid passports that will not expire for at least thirty days after arrival, and a roundtrip/outbound ticket.  Some U.S. airlines may not permit passengers to board flights to Costa Rica without such a ticket.  Passports should be in good condition; Costa Rican immigration will deny entry if the passport is damaged in any way.  Costa Rican authorities generally permit U.S. citizens to stay up to ninety days; to stay beyond the period granted, travelers must submit an application for an extension to the Office of Temporary Permits in the Costa Rican Department of Immigration.  Tourist visas are usually not extended except under special circumstances, and extension requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  There is a departure tax for short-term visitors.  Tourists who stay over ninety days may experience a delay at the airport when departing.  Persons who overstayed previously may be denied entry to Costa Rica.

Persons traveling to Costa Rica from some countries in South America and Sub-Saharan Africa must provide evidence of a valid yellow fever vaccination prior to entry.  The South American countries include Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:  Costa Rica is a middle-income, developing country with a strong democratic tradition.  Tourist facilities are extensive and generally adequate.  The capital is San Jose.  English is a second language for many Costa Ricans.

REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION:   Americans living or traveling in Costa Rica are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Costa Rica.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.  The U.S. Embassy is located in Pavas, San Jose, and may be reached at (506) 2519-2000; the extension for the Consular Section is 2453.  The Embassy is open Monday through Friday, and is closed on Costa Rican and U.S. holidays.  Those seeking information are strongly encouraged to utilize the embassy web site http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/, and can email consularsanjose@state.gov with any questions/concerns.  For emergencies arising outside normal business hours, U.S. citizens may call (506) 2220-3127 and ask for the duty officer.