Travel Authorisation Costa Rica

Description

Swiss citizens may travel to Costa Rica visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism, business visits, or family trips. Although a visa is not required for short stays, travelers must still meet entry requirements, comply with health regulations, and observe customs rules. Our Travel Authorisation Costa Rica service ensures that Swiss travelers are fully prepared for every step of their journey.

Entry documents:

• A valid Swiss passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the date of entry (a national ID card is not sufficient)

• Proof of onward or return travel (airline staff often request this at check-in)

• Evidence of accommodation, such as hotel booking or a host invitation letter

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay

• Carrying both printed and digital copies of these documents is strongly recommended to avoid complications with airlines or immigration officials

Health and insurance requirements:

• No mandatory vaccinations are required unless arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country; in such cases, proof of vaccination is mandatory

• COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted, but rules may change quickly, so travelers should check close to their departure date

• Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation is strongly recommended, particularly since Costa Rica requires proof of insurance with minimum coverage for extended stays or residency applications

Customs and border rules:

• Cash exceeding US $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared upon entry or exit

• Duty-free allowances apply for alcohol, tobacco, and personal items, but excess quantities must be declared

• Costa Rica enforces strict biosecurity rules — fresh food, plants, and animal products must be declared to protect local ecosystems

Stay limits and extensions:
Swiss citizens may stay in Costa Rica visa-free for up to 90 days per visit. Extensions may be possible by applying directly with Costa Rican immigration authorities before the original stay expires. Processing can take several weeks, so applications should be submitted early. ⚠️ Overstaying can result in fines, difficulties departing, or re-entry bans.

Costa Rica offers Swiss visitors an incredible variety of experiences — from rainforests and volcanoes to Pacific and Caribbean coastlines rich in biodiversity. By arranging your Travel Authorisation Costa Rica with us, you gain expert guidance on documents, health, and customs, ensuring that your trip is smooth and stress-free.