Corona in Costa Rica

Statement by the Costa Rica Tourism Board on COVID-19

Given the importance of preventing and avoiding the spread of the coronavirus caused by the COVID-19 disease that has been declared an international pandemic, the Costa Rica Tourism Board (the ICT) informs its tourism partners that the Government of the Republic has ordered that only Costa Ricans and residents may enter the country for 25 days. 

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

Upon entering the country, Costa Rican citizens and residents will receive a health order and will have to stay in their homes for 14 days in compliance with preventive and compulsory isolation.  

International tourists currently in national territory will be able to leave the country in an orderly manner and must coordinate with the respective airlines or travel agencies. 

This is a health decision to safeguard the right to life and health of individuals, a fundamental right that the State must protect.  

Since the beginning of the emergency in January, the country has implemented COVID-19 protocols that extend to international airports, land and sea ports of entry, and owners and managers of tourism services. 

Following the detection of the first cases in Costa Rica on March 6, measures have gradually been taken to suspend mass activities, close educational establishments and implement teleworking for public officials and private companies that deem it necessary.  

It is important to note that Costa Rica’s health system is one of the best in Latin America. By constitutional mandate and in accordance with the Universal Health Care Act of 1961, public health services are accessible to everyone. 

 Questions & Answers: 

1. From what date will the restriction to foreigners to enter the country apply?
From Wednesday, March 18 at 11:59 p.m. through Sunday, April 12, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. 

2. What if I am a foreigner and want to leave Costa Rica on those dates?
If you wish to leave the country during the aforementioned period, please contact your travel agent or airline to schedule 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, upon re-entry into the national territory, they will have to comply with the order from the health authority to undergo a mandatory quarantine period of 14 days. 

If you are on vacation in Costa Rica and have symptoms of an acute respiratory infection (fever, cough and shortness of breath), please stay at home or in your accommodations and inform Costa Rica's health services.

More information:
Costa Rica Tourism Board, www.ict.go.cr