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Costa Rica

No visa for a tourist stay of up to 180 days.

Reviewed by TripminuteFrench passport · tourism · short stayInformation reviewed on August 9, 2026
The 30-second summary
DocumentPassport in excellent condition and an onward ticket.
EntryShort stay visa-free

No visa for a tourist stay of up to 180 days.

DurationUp to 180 days, as confirmed by immigration.
Key warningA transit country may require a longer passport validity than Costa Rica itself.

Before you book

This block covers the standard case stated above. If your situation differs, open the consular source directly.

Document

Passport in excellent condition and an onward ticket.

Entry

No visa for a tourist stay of up to 180 days.

Duration

Up to 180 days, as confirmed by immigration.

Vaccines and health

Recommendations depend on age, health, stopovers, regions and season.

Routine vaccines, hepatitis A and mosquito-borne risks should be reviewed according to the regions visited.
  • Assess yellow fever requirements according to areas and transit countries.
  • Discuss hepatitis A, typhoid or rabies based on trip length and style.
  • Prevent dengue, chikungunya and Zika with appropriate mosquito protection.

Driving locally

An international driving permit is a translation: it never replaces your valid French licence.

A French licence is generally recognised for a short stay. Confirm the allowed period with the rental company and official guidance.

Service-Public · international permit

Documents to prepare

  • Required identity document and a separate copy
  • Authorisation, visa or QR code available offline
  • Return ticket and first accommodation address
  • Medical insurance and assistance number
  • Prescriptions and medicines in original packaging
  • French licence and any required supporting permit

What can change the answer

Dual nationality or residence permitTransit through border controlMinor travelling alone or with one parentWork, internship, volunteering or a longer stayEmergency, damaged or nearly expired passportControlled medication or specialist equipment

Frequently asked questions

Is a visa or authorisation required?

No visa for a tourist stay of up to 180 days.

Which vaccines should I consider?

Routine vaccines, hepatitis A and mosquito-borne risks should be reviewed according to the regions visited.

Is a French driving licence sufficient?

A French licence is generally recognised for a short stay. Confirm the allowed period with the rental company and official guidance.

When should this information be checked again?

Check once before any non-refundable purchase, then again 48 to 72 hours before departure. The destination authorities and carrier retain the final say.