Costa Rica visa-free entry for citizens of Spain: 2026 entry rules
No, citizens of Spain do not need a visa for a short stay in Costa Rica (up to 180 days).
Data updated on
Indicative information: confirm with the embassy or the official portal before booking. Our methodology · Official portal
Travellers from Spain do not apply for a visa for a tourist stay in Costa Rica, but border control still asks for a file.
Our guide to the Costa Rica visa from Spain
No visa is required for Spanish citizens staying in Costa Rica for tourism purposes. The maximum allowed stay is 180 days. Ensure you meet the official entry requirements before traveling.
Spanish travelers visiting Costa Rica for tourism do not need a prior visa. However, they must meet certain entry conditions. It is advisable to check official sources before departure to avoid any issues at the border.
Is a visa required?
No, Spanish citizens do not need a visa for short-term tourism stays in Costa Rica. The exemption allows a maximum stay of 180 days. It is important to adhere to this duration to avoid entry problems.
How long can citizens of Spain stay in Costa Rica?
180 days
Visa-free entry allows a stay of 180 days. To stay longer, study or work, a visa is generally required.
Processing times and tips
Entry is typically granted immediately upon arrival. Travelers should arrive prepared with all necessary documents and respect the 180-day limit. Regularly check official sources for any updates or changes.
What to show at the border of Costa Rica
Documents required for a visa for Costa Rica:
- Passport valid 6 months beyond stay
- Completed application form
- One passport-size photo
- Flight itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Bank statements (3 months)
- Visa fee payment
How to enter the country
Entry requires a valid passport. No prior application or additional documents are necessary for tourism purposes. It is also recommended to carry proof of a return or onward ticket to demonstrate the intent to leave the country.
Documents and fees
Required documents include a valid passport and, optionally, proof of a return or onward ticket. There are no fees associated with the visa exemption. For detailed information, consult the official portal or embassy.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse visa exemption with prior authorization. Beware of websites offering fake « visas » or paid documents, which are illegal and useless. Always refer to official sources for accurate information.
Other visa types for Costa Rica
A tourist stay is not the only purpose. These are the other permits the destination issues and that your nationality is eligible for, each with its own fee and processing time.
- Business visa
- Rentista visa (passive income)
- Digital Nomad visa
- Student visa
- Family Reunification
- Pensionado visa (retiree)
1 more visa types
Official sources
Guide generated automatically on July 26, 2026, from the verified catalogue.
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Short-stay (tourism)
Visa-free
Entry regime
Visa-free
Duration
180 days
Official websiteTo confirm
Business visa
Consular visa
Duration
90 days
Price
30–50 USD
Processing time
15 business days
Official websiteVerified
Family Reunification
Family reunification
Duration
2 years
Price
50 USD
Processing time
60 business days
Official websiteVerified
Rentista visa (passive income)
Long-stay
Duration
2 years
Price
50 USD
Processing time
60 business days
Official websiteVerified
Inversionista (Investor)
Investor visa
Duration
2 years
Price
50 USD
Processing time
60 business days
Official websiteVerified
Digital Nomad visa
Work visa
Duration
1 year (renewable to 2)
Price
100 USD
Processing time
30 business days
Official websiteVerified
Pensionado visa (retiree)
Retirement visa
Duration
2 years
Price
50 USD
Processing time
60 business days
Official websiteVerified
Student visa
Student visa
Duration
1 year
Price
30–50 USD
Processing time
30 business days
Official websiteVerified
Tips to extend your stay in Costa Rica
- Check entry and stay conditions before the trip.
- Plan a travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events.
Example: If you want to extend your stay, it is advisable to contact local authorities for detailed information on the procedures to follow.
Plan your trip
Nomad Insurance travel cover (SafetyWing)
Medical cover and repatriation, can be taken out mid-trip.
Flights (Trip.com)
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eSIM data (Saily)
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Tours and activities (GetYourGuide)
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Indicative information, drawn from official sources and Wikipedia, and updated automatically. Rules change: confirm with the embassy or the official portal before booking. Our methodology · Official portal
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