Costa Rica and COVID-19

Important information:

Given the importance of preventing and limiting the spread of the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 disease, declared an international pandemic, the Costa Rica Tourism Institute informs its tourism partners that the government of the Republic has ordered that only Costa Ricans and residents will be able to enter the country for 25 days.

Visit measure valid from March 18, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. to April 12 at 11:59 p.m. and applies to air, sea and land ports of entry.

Upon entering the country, Costa Rican citizens and residents will be instructed to stay at home for 14 days in accordance with the mandatory preventive isolation program.

International tourists currently in the country can leave in an orderly fashion, and should contact their respective airline or travel agency.

This is a health decision designed to safeguard people's right to life and health, a fundamental right that the State has a duty to preserve.

Since the start of the emergency in January, the country has implemented COVID-19 protocols for international airports, land and sea ports of entry, and tourism owners and operators.

Following the detection of the first cases in Costa Rica on March 6, measures were progressively taken to suspend group activities, close educational centers and apply teleworking to public employees and private companies that deemed it appropriate.

It's important to stress that Costa Rica's healthcare system is one of the best in Latin America. By constitutional mandate and in accordance with the Universal Health Insurance Act of 1961, public health services are accessible to all.

Questions and answers:

1) From what date will the entry restriction for foreigners come into force in the country?

From this Wednesday, March 18 at 11:59 pm until 11:59 pm on Sunday, April 12, 2020.

2) What happens if I am a foreigner and wish to leave Costa Rica on these dates?

If you wish to leave the country during the period mentioned, please contact your travel agency or airline to plan your departure.

3) Will flights be cancelled or reduced?

Airlines are expected to reduce or cancel flights during the 25-day period in which this restriction applies.

4) Can Costa Ricans leave the country?

Yes, but only in cases of force majeure. Similarly, on their return to France, they will have to comply with a sanitary order, with a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

If you are on vacation in Costa Rica and develop symptoms of acute respiratory infection (fever, cough and shortness of breath), stay at home or in your vacation accommodation and inform the Costa Rican health services.