Costa Rica travel advice
Latest updates: Safety and security – updated information on women’s safety
Last updated: ET
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- Entry and exit requirements
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Risk level
Costa Rica - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to crime.
Safety and security
Crime
Petty crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. Tourists are common targets for theft because they are perceived as being wealthy.
Crime against property, such as house burglary, theft from cars, and vehicle theft, is frequent. Passport theft is also extremely common and increases in frequency during the peak tourist seasons, from November to May and from July to August.
Thieves often work in teams, in which one thief diverts the victims’ attention while the other snatches their possessions. Thefts commonly occur:
- in popular tourist areas, including viewpoints
- on buses, on trains, in bus and train stations as well as in airports terminals
- in hotel lobbies
- at restaurants, including on patios located near streets
While you’re in Costa Rica:
- ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- carry your passport, including the Costa Rican entry stamp received at the immigration entry point
- avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
- avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
- avoid isolated or deserted areas
- avoid walking alone at night
- be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
- be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
San José
In San José, high-risk areas for theft include:
- the Coca-Cola bus terminal area, located between El Paso de la Vaca, Calle 12 and the Coca-Cola market
- the inner downtown area, located between the San Juan de Dios Hospital, the National Museum, Avenida 1 and Avenida 14
- the Mercado central areas
- public parks
Pacific Coast
In Puntarenas province, the following areas are of particular concern for theft:
- Dominical
- Jacó, including the crocodile viewing area along the Tárcoles River
- Manuel Antonio national park
- Quepos
- Cóbano area, including the small seaside towns of Mal País, Montezuma and Santa Teresa, as well as the port of Puntarenas
Caribbean Coast
On the Caribbean coast, the following areas are of particular concern for theft:
- Cahuita
- Puerto Limón
- Puerto Viejo
Residential break-ins
Residential break-ins occur. Burglars may target rental accommodations or houses and apartments owned by foreigners.
- Choose well-secured accommodation
- Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away
Car theft
Car break-ins and theft are very common throughout the country. Rental and luxury vehicles are a target of choice. Theft commonly occurs:
- hotels
- supermarkets
- restaurants
- store lots
- national parks
- beaches
If driving in Costa Rica:
- familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
- keep your windows and doors locked at all times
- keep your belongings out of reach
- use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
- never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even locked or out of sight in the trunk
- don’t stop to change a flat tire in an isolated area, and beware of strangers offering their help
- ensure emergency assistance and car insurance are offered by the rental agency when renting a car
Violent crime
Violent crime, including murders and armed robberies, occurs. Drug trafficking is common, and most incidents are drug-related. The most affected provinces are:
- Alajuela
- Limón
- Puntarenas
- San José
Although not frequent, violent assaults against travellers have occurred on the Caribbean coast in:
- Puerto Limón
- Puerto Viejo
If you are threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately without resistance.
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with irregular or unusual features
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Spiked food and drinks
Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
- Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
- Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
Unregulated alcohol
There are reports of casualties due to the consumption of unregulated and adulterated alcohol containing high levels of methanol.
- Buy alcohol from reputable establishments
- Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.
Incidents of sexual assault against foreigners at beach resorts and by taxi drivers in San José have occurred.
Useful links
Demonstrations
Demonstrations take place from time to time, particularly in San José. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
Costa Rican law prohibits political activity by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or activities may result in you being detained and/or deported.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Water activities
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.
Very few beaches are supervised by lifeguards. There are no warning signs of dangerous conditions.
- Exercise caution when swimming
- Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
- Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
- Monitor weather warnings
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Tips for travellers - Costa Rica Tourist Board
- Water safety abroad
Adventure tourism
Outdoor activities, such as white-water rafting, scuba diving, bungee jumping, canopy touring and other adventure sports can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are rarely marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.
Safety features on small boats used in river and lake excursions are not always reliable.
Life-threatening fauna such as jaguars, pumas, wild pigs and poisonous snakes are common in the densely wooded areas.
If you intend to practice adventure tourism:
- never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
- obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- avoid venturing off marked trails
- don’t camp or sleep overnight on beaches
- ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
- stay informed of weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
- refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety
National parks
You must obtain a permit to access national parks.
Nation Parks – Costa Rica Tourist Board
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are generally poor throughout the country. Costa Rica has one of the highest traffic accident rates in the world.
Road conditions
Most roads are not paved and those paved are generally in poor condition. Driving conditions may be hazardous, especially during the rainy season, due to:
- potholes
- sharp curves
- lack of traffic signs
- landslides
- narrow or unpaved roads
Driving habits
Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. Motorists often drive without lights at night.
While driving:
- remain vigilant when stopped at lights or stop signs
- keep doors locked and windows closed at all times
- keep your valuables out of plain sight
- avoid travel at night
Public transportation
Buses
Public bus transportation is unreliable. Schedules and routes may not be accurate. Vehicles are often late due to traffic and road conditions. Itineraries may also vary from the ones originally announced.
Pickpockets often target tourists in public buses.
If travelling by public bus:
- keep your ID and valuables with you
- avoid placing your bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
- avoid sleeping
Police checks of passengers on public transportation also occur. Officers often use those checks to determine if foreigners have overstayed the 90-day visa exemption period.
Always carry your proof of legal stay on your person.
Taxis
Official taxis are safe. They are orange at the airport and red with a yellow triangle on the side elsewhere in the country.
- Use official taxis only booked ahead of time
- Never board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis in the street
- Note the driver’s name and plate number
- Make sure the driver uses the meter
- Never use shared taxis
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Costa Rican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 180 days
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Length of stay
The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of your stay when you enter Costa Rica. As a tourist, you may be granted a stay up to 180 days.
If you intend to stay for more than 180 days, you must obtain a residency status from the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería.
You may face deportation if you overstay the authorized 180-day period. Persons deported from Costa Rica will not be allowed to re-enter the country for 5 to 10 years.
Immigration department – Costa Rica government (in Spanish)
Entry stamp
You must obtain an entry stamp from immigration officials upon entry into Costa Rica.
Other entry requirements
Customs officials will ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Minors with dual citizenship
Costa Rica strictly enforces requirements for the departure of minors with dual citizenship.
The Canadian passport of a dual citizen child must have a Costa Rican departure approval delivered by the immigration authorities. The granted permission may be temporary or permanent and will be recorded in the Costa Rican immigration electronic system.
The approval must be requested jointly by both parents, prior to departure, to either of the following authorities:
- Costa Rica’s immigration department
- the Embassy of Costa Rica in Canada
Several cases of departure denials have occurred due to the lack of proper documentation.
Minors with dual citizenship who are travelling unaccompanied must also have legally certified written consent from both parents.
Useful Links
- Immigration department – Costa Rica government (in Spanish)
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Children and travel
Learn more about travelling with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
- Dengue: Advice for travellers - 2 July, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, excluding Argentina and Panama, or if you are coming from Tanzania or Zambia.
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care provider.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Malaria
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination.
Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:
• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:
- season
- year
- region
- elevation
The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Dengue
- In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.
Zika virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
During your trip:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel.
For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
American trypanosomiasis
American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease) is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.
Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Mpox
Mpox (monkeypox) is a risk in this country. It is a viral disease that can cause serious illness in some circumstances. Risk is generally low for most travellers.
Mpox spreads in 3 ways:
- from animals to humans through direct contact or by eating or preparing undercooked meat of infected animals or coming into contact with an infected animal's body fluids
- from person to person through close contact, including direct contact with the skin lesions, blood, body fluids, or mucosal surfaces (such as eyes, mouth, throat, genitalia, anus, or rectum) of an infected person
- through direct contact with contaminated objects such as bedding and towels, or by sharing personal objects used by an infected person
Follow recommended public health measures and avoid contact with animals such as rodents and primates to help prevent getting or spreading the infection.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Medical services and facilities
Health care is very good.
Public hospitals offer very good services throughout the country but waiting times may be long. Doctors rarely speak English or French.
Private clinics and hospitals provide excellent health care. They are mainly located in San José. Services may be expensive. Doctors and hospitals typically require upfront payment.
Emergency services may be limited in rural areas.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive and may be necessary in case of serious illness or injury.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Health and safety outside Canada
Medications
Some prescription medication may not be available in Costa Rica.
If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.
- Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
- Always keep your medication in the original container
- Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
- Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions
Medical tourism
Canadian citizens have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.
Before leaving for medical travel:
- make sure you’ve done your research
- use reputable health-care providers only
Receiving medical care outside Canada
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Transfer to a Canadian prison
Canada and Costa Rica are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Costa Rica to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Costa Rican authorities.
This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.
If you violate Costa Rica’s laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.
Overview of the criminal law system in Costa Rica
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences or heavy fines.
Child sex tourism
It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Costa Rica.
Conviction may result in a lengthy prison sentence.
Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime
Identification
Authorities may request to see your ID at any time.
- Carry valid identification at all times
- Keep a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp in case it’s lost or seized
- Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents
Photography
It is illegal to photograph official buildings.
Check with local authorities before taking photos.
Investments
Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.
If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Costa Rica:
- seek legal advice in Canada and in Costa Rica before making commitments
- choose your own lawyer
- avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Costa Rica.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Costa Rica, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Costa Rica.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Costa Rica, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Costa Rican court.
If you are in this situation:
- act as quickly as you can
- contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Costa Rica to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.
Useful links
- List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
- International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
- Children and travel
- The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Request emergency assistance
Driving
You can drive with your valid Canadian driver’s licence in Costa Rica for up to 180 days, or the length of the stay granted on your entry stamp.
You must also carry your passport when driving in the country. Photocopies are not acceptable. You may face a fine if you fail to provide proper documentation when stopped by a traffic officer.
If you are involved in a road accident, the Costa Rican government may prevent you from leaving the country until all injury claims have been settled, regardless of which party is at fault or has insurance coverage. The local legal process may take several months.
In the event of a car accident:
- don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive
- remain at the scene
- call 911 to report the accident
Automatic speed cameras are common. If you exceed the speed limit, you may receive a speeding ticket by mail.
Traffic fines don’t have to be paid on the spot. You can pay a fine:
- at COSEVI (Costa Rican Road Safety Council)
- at a bank
If a police officer asks you for money, you may make a complaint to the Costa Rican Tourism Bureau.
Useful Links
- Costa Rican Tourism Bureau
- Road Safety – Costa Rican Road Safety Council (in Spanish)
- International Driving Permit
Money
The currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
Credit cards are generally accepted.
It’s extremely difficult to exchange Canadian dollars in Costa Rica. U.S. dollars are more easily exchanged.
Cash withdrawals are possible with a 4-digit PIN only.
Natural disasters and climate
Hurricane season
Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.
These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.
If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Severe storms outside Canada
- Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
- Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center
Flooding
The rainy season extends from May to November, which sometimes extends into January.
Torrential rains and landslides occur frequently in the lowlands and mountainous areas along the Caribbean and in the Central Valley.
Seasonal flooding often causes power outages. It can also hamper overland travel and reduce the delivery of other essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.
Earthquakes and tsunamis
Costa Rica is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tremors occur regularly. Tsunamis are possible.
A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.
Volcanoes
There are several active and potentially active volcanoes in the country, including:
- Arenal
- Poás
- Rincón de la Vieja
- Turrialba
Eruptions may occur at any time. They sometimes lead to evacuations of surrounding areas on short notice.
In the event of an earthquake or volcanic eruption:
- pay careful attention to all warnings issued for national parks
- monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
- follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Useful links
- Earthquakes – What to Do?
- Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
- Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System
- National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response (in Spanish)
- Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (in Spanish)
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
In case of an emergency, dial 911.
Consular assistance
San José - Embassy of Canada
Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua
Appointment Book your appointment onlineFor emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Costa Rica, in San José, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
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