What to Know About Going Through Customs and Immigration in Costa Rica's Airports
Costa Rica is served by two international airports: San Jose International Airport in Alajuela, near the capital city, and Guanacaste Airport in Liberia, Guanacaste. Both airports follow the same procedures for immigration and customs.
This information will guide you through the immigration and customs process at both San Jose International Airport and Guanacaste Airport, preparing you for a seamless arrival experience.
Remember, immigration procedures apply to travelers, while customs regulations apply to luggage and goods.
Entering Costa Rica by Air
Costa Rica Customs Form Requirements
The following information is required to complete the Costa Rica customs form:
- Last name (family name)
- First name (given name)
- Mother’s maiden name (optional, but may be requested)
- Nationality
- Gender
- Date of birth
- Country of residence
- Country of origin
Flight and Passenger Details
- Travel document (typically a passport, unless otherwise specified)
- Passport number
- Flight number
- Airline
- Destination address in Costa Rica, including:
- Hotel name (or first accommodation)
- Beach or town name
- Airbnb address or name (if applicable)
- Town or city name
Immigration Process
Navigating Immigration at San Jose and Liberia Airports in Costa Rica
After disembarking, follow the signs to the immigration area, where foreign passport holders will be processed first.
Note that the immigration area offers a bathroom with four stalls and is air-conditioned, making it a more comfortable option than the two individual bathrooms in the baggage claim area, which lacks air conditioning. Additional restrooms are available in the airport terminal after exiting baggage claim.
Families proceed through immigration together, while spouses and friends typically go separately, with each adult being called individually to the desk for processing.
Immigration Questions and Requirements
When approaching the immigration officer, present your passport for scanning and verification.
The officer will then request the following information:
- A valid, original passport that does not expire during your stay in Costa Rica.
- Lodging details, including your first destination and hotel or Airbnb location.
- Proof of onward travel out of Costa Rica, such as a return airline ticket, to demonstrate exit within 180 days (required for Group 1 countries). Having this documentation readily available is essential, as immigration regulations are becoming more stringent.
Visa Requirements for Tourists
As of September 2023, Costa Rica has extended the tourist visa duration for Group 1 countries from 90 to 180 days. Immigration officers now stamp passports with the maximum 180-day allowance, provided travelers can show proof of departure within this timeframe. However, the actual duration granted may vary at the officer’s discretion, potentially ranging from 90 days to less, depending on individual circumstances. Group 1 countries include the USA, Canada, Germany, UK, Australia, and Chile. If unsure about your country’s classification, consult the Costa Rican embassy for clarification. Note that English is widely spoken by immigration officers, who are accustomed to interacting with tourists.
Tourist Visas
Baggage Claim and Customs
After completing the immigration process, proceed to the baggage claim area, accessible through the double doors. Locate your luggage on one of the few carousels and collect all your bags, utilizing the free carts if needed. Next, direct your luggage to the customs scanners, where you’ll need to place all your belongings, including backpacks, bags, purses, and carry-ons, for screening. Note that duty-free purchases made after immigration are exempt from scanning.
Once your luggage has been cleared, collect it and you’re free to go. If you’re stopped by a customs officer, simply retrieve your luggage and bring it to the designated area for inspection. In my experience, I’ve been stopped three times: once for transporting computer towers, and another time for carrying leftover dried fruit from the flight, which was confiscated.
Exit
Upon exiting the customs area, you’ll pass through a set of swinging doors marked “no re-entry” and enter the airport terminal. At San Jose International Airport, you’ll find yourself outside, where drivers, taxi services, tour operators, and guides will be waiting to your right. Be prepared to walk a short distance along the sidewalk to locate your designated person. In contrast, Guanacaste Airport exits directly into the terminal, where you’ll find your awaiting party straight ahead.
Time Required for Customs and Immigration at San Jose and Liberia Airports
The duration for clearing customs and immigration at San Jose and Guanacaste Airports varies depending on your arrival time and travel dates.
San Jose Airport tends to experience longer wait times, especially during peak season (December to April, July, and early August), particularly on Fridays to Mondays. Be prepared to spend at least an hour, potentially up to three hours, in lines during busy periods like February and March, when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.
In contrast, Guanacaste Airport typically processes passengers more quickly due to fewer flights. However, during high tourism months (11 AM to 2 PM), expect wait times of 30 minutes to an hour.
Exercise patience when arriving at either airport during peak travel periods, including Christmas, New Year’s, Spring Break, Holy Week, and North American summer vacations.
Airport Amenities: Money Exchange, Duty Free, Car Rentals, and More
Both San Jose and Guanacaste Airports offer various services after immigration, including money exchange and duty-free shopping. At Guanacaste Airport, these services are available until 7:30 PM.
Important note: we advise against exchanging money at the airport due to unfavorable rates. Instead, use your credit card or USD until you can visit a bank for a better exchange rate. If you need some local currency immediately, exchange a small amount (like $20 USD) until you can reach a bank. Alternatively, supermarkets accept USD and provide change in CRC.
At San Jose International Airport, the money exchange, SIM card stand, and duty-free shop are located in the baggage claim area, with the SIM card stand near baggage claim 5.
Car rental companies are also present in the baggage claim area at both airports.
That’s all you need to know for a hassle-free arrival in Costa Rica!
