Costa Rica’s Immigration gives new instruction to extend tourist visas
The Immigration Administration (DGME) has announced the extension of tourism visas until June 1 for visitors who arrived in Costa Rica after December 17, 2019.
Importantly, the extension is not automatic but applies to tourists who entered Costa Rica at any time after December 17, 2019.
Previously: Tourist visa extensions were automatic and only applied to people who arrived before December 1, 2020. Tourists who entered after November 30, 2020 and wanted an extension had to file a request and pay $100 for the legal process.
Now, for tourists who entered at any time after December 17, 2019: In order to receive the extension until June 1, tourists must email [email protected] with a copy of their insurance policy. This can be any policy offered by INS or Sagicor. Or, it can be an international policy that covers:
- Guaranteed coverage of medical expenses in the event of becoming ill with COVID-19 while in Costa Rica, for at least $50,000 USD.
- Minimum coverage of $2,000 USD for lodging expenses issued as a result of the pandemic.
Anyone who overstays their tourist visa (as stamped in their passport) and does not request the extension via the method outlined above will have an irregular immigration status.
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