Puerto RicoCosta Rica: Visa-free

Puerto RicoCosta Rica

Do United States passport holders need a visa for Costa Rica?

Visa-free

No. United States passport holders do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica for tourism for stays of up to 6 months.

No visa is required for a short tourist stay. Travel on a valid passport alone.

Puerto Rico does not issue its own passport; residents travel on a United States passport. See the United States passport.

Source: embassycr.org (checked July 18, 2026).

    RequirementVisa-free
    Maximum stay6 months
    ScopeTourism, ordinary passport
    Action before travelNone, travel on your passport
    Data as of2026-10-19
    Distance2,163 km, straight line (~3h 3m nonstop)
    Visa-free access to Costa Rica139 of 242 nationalities tracked

Travelling the other way? Costa Rica passport holders visiting Puerto Rico: Visa required.

Other visa-free destinations for United States passport holders

See all United States destinations →

Frequently asked questions

Do United States passport holders need a visa for Costa Rica?

No. United States passport holders do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica for tourism for stays of up to 6 months.

How long can United States citizens stay in Costa Rica without a visa?

Up to 6 months, for tourism, ordinary passport.

How far is Costa Rica from Puerto Rico?

About 2,163 km in a straight line, roughly ~3h 3m nonstop by air.

What currency is used in Costa Rica?

Costa Rican colón (CRC).

What is the emergency number in Costa Rica?

112 / 911.

What time zone is Costa Rica in?

Costa Rica (UTC-6).

What is the nearest airport to San Jose?

Quepos Managua Airport (XQP), about 25 km away.

How many countries can enter Costa Rica without a visa?

139 of the 242 nationalities this site tracks can enter Costa Rica visa-free, with a visa on arrival, or with an eTA.

Visa rules change frequently and can depend on your specific circumstances. This site is compiled from public government sources and is provided for general information only. Always confirm requirements with the official immigration authority or a consulate of your destination before you travel.