Welcome to a new era in Costa Rican travel! Executive Decree N°44187-MGP, effective September 8, 2023, has revamped the rules for globetrotters from a select group of countries. This change is set to reshape the travel landscape, offering extended stays and more immersive experiences in the lush, vibrant lands of Costa Rica.
Double the Fun: 180 Days to Explore Costa Rica
Gone are the days of a mere 90-day teaser in this tropical paradise. For travelers from the first group of countries, the maximum legal stay has been joyously extended to 180 days (that’s a whole six months!) per entry. Imagine the adventures, the memories, and, let’s be honest, the Instagram posts that extra time affords!
Who’s In? A Look at the Lucky Countries
This exciting change primarily affects visitors from a specific group of countries, which now includes Ukraine, a recent addition to the privileged list. Here’s a roll call of the nations basking in the extended Costa Rican sun:
- European delights: Germany, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Greece, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland.
- Americas and beyond: Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, United States of America, Mexico, Montenegro, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, San Marino, Serbia, South Africa, Holy See (Vatican), Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay.
- Special note: Territories dependent on Argentina, Britain, France, Holland, Denmark, Australia, Norway, New Zealand, and the U.S. are also included, provided travelers hold passports from these countries.
Discretion is Key: The Immigration Officer’s Call
It’s not all automatic, though. The grant of the full 180-day stay lies in the wise hands of Costa Rica’s immigration officers. They hold the power to tailor the length of your stay, offering a shorter period if they deem it appropriate. It’s like a travel plot twist!
Seeking More Time? Here’s the Extension Scoop
For those granted less than 90 days but craving more of the Pura Vida lifestyle, you’re in luck! You can request a one-time extension to reach the 90-day mark. However, if you’ve already hit the 90-day jackpot, don’t get greedy – extensions beyond that are a no-go.
Legal Eagles at Your Service: Dentons Costa Rica
Navigating this new visa landscape might feel like trekking through the Costa Rican rainforest –
exciting but a bit overwhelming. Fear not, for the legal experts at Dentons Costa Rica are ready to guide you through every twist and turn of Employment and Labor Law in this lush land. Contact them for tailored advice that fits your travel or employment needs like a glove.
Why This Matters: More Than Just Extra Days
This isn’t just about adding numbers to your stay; it’s about deepening the connection with Costa Rica’s rich culture, biodiversity, and the warmth of its people. With double the time, you can immerse yourself in everything from the misty heights of Monteverde to the bustling streets of San José.
A New Chapter in Costa Rican Tourism
Costa Rica’s new visa policy is more than a procedural update; it’s a bold invitation to the world. It’s an opportunity for travelers to not just visit but live the pura vida lifestyle, to become part of the country’s vibrant tapestry, and to leave with stories that span more than just a typical vacation. So pack your bags (and maybe an extra suitcase for souvenirs) – Costa Rica awaits you, now for longer than ever before!
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