Key Points

  • Costa Rica has launched a visa waiver for certain Chinese nationals
  • Some Chinese nationals do not need a consular visa to enter Costa Rica for short-term business and tourism
  • Eligible travelers must buy a tourism package from a tour agency registered in Costa Rica upon entry
  • All other Chinese nationals still need a consular-issued visa to enter Costa Rica for business and tourism
  • The issuance of consular visas is suspended through April 30, 2021 for COVID-19
  • The visa waiver is available starting on March 1, 2021

Overview

On March 1, 2021, some Chinese nationals will be eligible for visa waivers.

What are the Changes?

Starting in March, Chinese nationals who are age 18 and over and have passports issued in either Beijing or Shanghai will no longer need a consular visa to enter Costa Rica for business or tourism purposes up to 30 days.

Along with the requirements above, eligible travelers must buy a tourism package from a tour agency registered in the country.

What Should Employers and Applicants Know?

Aside from the Chinese nationals noted above, all other Chinese nationals still need a consular-issued visa to enter Costa Rica for business and tourism purposes.

Looking Ahead

The issuance of consular visas is suspended through April 30, 2021 for COVID-19.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.