Security Status
- Normal precautions
- High degree of caution
- Avoid non-essential travel
- Do not travel
- Overview
- Safety and Security
- Local Laws and Customs
- Health
- Additional information
- Embassy Contact
Overview
Overview
Overview
Security status
High degree of caution.
Latest Travel Alert
Citizens planning travel abroad should take into account the ongoing risk of testing positive for COVID-19 while abroad and are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance that includes COVID-19 cover. Before departure and during travel, citizens are advised to monitor our Travel Advice, follow us on Twitter, and register with their nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate.
Travel to Costa Rica
Currently, there are no COVID-19 related measures in place for entering Costa Rica.
All passengers are advised to consult the latest information before travel. The government of Costa Rica maintains a clear website in English detailing all requirements for entering and travelling through the country here.
The government of Costa Rica has introduced a number of domestic restrictions to control the spread of COVID-19. You are advised to follow official government sources for updates, including from the Ministry of Health: https://www.ministeriodesalud.go.cr/ Restrictions may include the use of face masks in public areas. Travellers are strongly advised to comply with local restrictions and follow the advice of local authorities. Restrictions may vary depending on the level of COVID-19 in Costa Rica and restrictions may affect the use of cars and private vehicles, as well as the operation of businesses including hotels.
For tourist advice, including on accommodation and travel, call +506-2299-5827 or via WhatsApp on+506-8628-3247. Emergency contact numbers are: Police Emergency - 911; Ambulance - 911 or 128; Fire Service - 911 or 118; Police Investigative Service - 911 or 2221-5337.
If you think you have COVID-19 symptoms, you should call 1322 and follow the advice of the authorities.
General Travel Advice
As there is no Irish Embassy or Consulate in the Costa Rica, we are limited in the help we can offer you in an emergency situation. However, if there is an emergency, or if you need help and advice, you can contact the Embassy of Ireland in Mexico on +52 55 5520 5803.
Safety and Security
Safety and Security
Safety and security
General Security
You should remain vigilant and aware, including when using ATMs. Petty theft of passports and other personal belongings is common. You should be particularly aware when on the beach and when travelling on public transport as bags left in overhead compartments can be stolen.
Only use official taxis and avoid poorly lit or remote areas.
Exercise caution when purchasing spirit-based drinks as there have been a number of cases of serious illness or death caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol. If you, or someone you are travelling with shows symptoms of alcohol-induced methanol poisoning (including headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting), seek medical attention immediately.
Hurricane season
The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from July to October. You should pay close attention to local and international weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Always monitor local and international weather updates for the region by accessing, for example, the Weather Channel, or the US National Hurricane Centre website.
Local Laws and Customs
Local Laws and Customs
Local laws and customs
Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.
Don’t get involved with drugs of any kind in any way. Penalties for drug offences are severe in Costa Rica, with convictions for drug possession or trafficking carrying very long sentences.
Health
Health
Health
Take all relevant precautions in relation to Covid-19. Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for this country and consult them on any other health related concerns.
Medical care in Costa Rica is generally of a good standard but can vary, particularly in remote areas. Make sure you have adequate travel and health insurance and access to funds in order to cover the cost of any medical treatment. If you require medical attention, you should promptly contact your healthcare provider.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.
Additional information
Additional information
Entry requirements (visa/passport)
If you are unsure of the entry requirements for this country, including visa and other immigration information, ask your travel agent or contact the country's nearest Embassy or Consulate.
You can also check with them how long your passport must be valid for.
Embassy contact
Embassy Contact
The Embassy operates an out of hours service for Irish citizens requiring emergency assistance on weekends and public holidays.
If you are in need of emergency assistance during these times, you should leave a message on the emergency message system by calling +52 55 5520 5803.
Embassy of Ireland
Cda. Blvd. Avila Camacho, 76-3
Col. Lomas de Chapultepec
11000 México D.F.
Tel: +52 55 5520 5803
Fax: +52 55 5520 5892
Monday to Friday 09:30 to 13:30
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