embassly
SOS
San José

United States embassy & consulates in Costa Rica

Visa-free · 180 days$2,800/moSOS 911Updated Nov 9, 2026
Quick answer

United States has 1 diplomatic mission(s) in Costa Rica: Embassy (San José).

Entry rules for United States passport holders → Costa Rica:Visa-free· 180 days
Photo: Xlionheartx · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

United States missions in Costa Rica

Entry rules for United States passport holders

Costa RicaVisa-free· 180 days

Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel. Source: Passport Index dataset (MIT), refreshed Nov 9, 2026.

Do citizens of United States need a visa for Costa Rica?United States passport power

Get a notice when this rule changes

We are building e-mail notices for visa-rule changes. Leave your address and we will write when they start. We use it for nothing else. How we use your address

Document checklist: United States → Costa Rica

General guidance for a short trip. Requirements change, so confirm with the official sources linked below.

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months after your trip, with 2 blank pages.
  • You can stay up to 180 days without a visa.
  • Return or onward ticket.
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation).
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements of the last 3–6 months).
  • Travel medical insurance for the whole stay.

Only use the official government portal. Many look-alike sites charge extra.

Apostille or legalisation?
Apostille is enough
United States → Costa Rica
Driving licence abroad
No shared convention. Check local rules: a local licence or official translation may be required.
United States → Costa Rica

Applying for a visa? Costa Rica missions in United States

  • Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington, D.C.Embassy · Washington, D.C. · +1-202-499-2980See all

Frequently asked questions

Is there an embassy of United States in Costa Rica?

Yes. United States has 1 diplomatic mission(s) in Costa Rica: Embassy (San José).

Where is the United States embassy in Costa Rica?

The United States embassy in Costa Rica is located at Edificio Cristal, Exe San José Center, Avenida Primera, Calle 1 y 3, San José.

Do citizens of United States need a visa for Costa Rica?

Visa-free (180 days). Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel.

How do I contact the United States embassy in Costa Rica?

Phone: (+506) 2519-2000. Email: info@usembassy.or.cr / ambsanjose@state.gov. Website: https://cr.usembassy.gov/.

Does United States have consulates in Costa Rica?

No separate consulate is on record; consular services are handled by the embassy.

What should I do if I lose my passport in Costa Rica?

Report the loss to the local police (emergency: 911), then contact the United States embassy or consulate in Costa Rica for an emergency travel document. Bring ID copies and a police report.

What are the opening hours?

Hours vary and are not yet verified for this mission. Call ahead or check the official website.