Duration of stay reduced for some visa-exempt travelers

The Costa Rican government has reduced the allowable duration of stay for some visa-exempt travelers.

Key Points:

• As of Aug. 5, visa-exempt travelers who are part of Group 2 can stay for up to 30 days for tourism or business instead of 90 days.
• Group 2 includes Russia, Taiwan and a number of Central and South American countries.
• Visa-exempt travelers from this group can apply at the General Immigration Directorate (DGME) for an extension-of-stay to remain in the country for up to 90 days.
• Costa Rican authorities also expanded visa-exempt status to additional foreign nationals from visa-required countries who hold visas or residence in visa-exempt countries.

BAL Analysis: Foreign nationals traveling from the affected countries must now apply for an extension-of-stay to stay in Costa Rica for up to 90 days.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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