Canada Visa RequirementsFor Costa Rica passport holders
Costa Ricans must obtain a Canadian eTA before flying to Canada. The process is simple and entirely online, costs only CAD 7 (about USD 7), and is typically approved within minutes. The eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires.
Costa Rica passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
Apply online at the official Government of Canada website (canada.ca/eta). The application requires your passport details, email address, credit card, and answers to background questions. Most applications are approved within minutes by email. The eTA fee is CAD 7. Link your eTA to the passport you will use for travel as it is passport-specific.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid passport
Passport valid for the duration of your intended stay
Email address
Valid email address to receive eTA approval notification
Credit or debit card
For payment of the CAD 7 eTA fee online
Flight information Recommended
Basic details of your flight to Canada, needed to complete the eTA application
Required at Entry
Valid Passport
The same passport linked to your eTA, valid for duration of stay.
eTA Approval Confirmation
Email confirmation of approved eTA; electronically linked to your passport and checked by airline at check-in.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from Canada within the authorized stay period.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel bookings or letter of invitation from a Canadian host.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Bank statements or credit card showing ability to cover expenses during your stay.
Current Travel Situation
Costa Rica to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada introduced the eTA requirement for visa-exempt nationals, including Costa Rica, in 2016. The eTA replaced what was previously a full visa requirement for Costa Ricans and significantly simplified travel. It is required only for air travel - those crossing by land or sea from the US use different procedures.
How to Get There
Costa Ricans can also visit the United States visa-free (with ESTA) and many travelers combine Canada and US trips. If traveling overland from the US into Canada, the eTA is not required but a valid passport is.
Money & Banking
Costa Rica uses the Colon (CRC). Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). ATMs are available throughout Canada. Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere. The exchange rate between USD and CAD is favorable for those converting from USD.
Practical Tips
Apply for your eTA as soon as you book your flights - there is no reason to wait. The eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you renew your passport, you must obtain a new eTA. Carry your passport and confirmation of eTA approval when flying. Canada allows stays of up to 6 months (180 days) per visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Costa Ricans need a visa to visit Canada?
Costa Ricans do not need a traditional visa but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA is simple, cheap, and usually approved instantly online.
Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa or eTA for Canada?
Costa Rican passport holders need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada. This is not a visa; it is a pre-authorization linked electronically to your passport.
How much does the Canadian eTA cost?
The eTA costs CAD 7 (approximately USD 7). Payment is made by credit card during the online application.
How do Costa Rican citizens apply for the Canadian eTA?
Apply online at canada.ca/eTA. The process takes only a few minutes. You need your passport, an email address, and a credit card for the CAD 7 fee.
How do I apply for a Canadian eTA?
Apply online at canada.ca/eta. You need your passport details, email address, and a credit card. Most approvals come within minutes by email.
How long does the Canadian eTA take to process?
Most eTAs are approved within minutes. Some applications take a few days for additional review. Apply at least 72 hours before your flight.
How long is the Canadian eTA valid?
The eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It is linked to your specific passport.
How long is the Canadian eTA valid for?
The eTA is valid for five years from the date of issue or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can use it for multiple trips during this period.
How long can Costa Ricans stay in Canada?
Costa Ricans can stay up to 6 months (180 days) per visit. Border officers make the final decision on length of stay at the port of entry.
Is the eTA required for land border crossings into Canada?
No. The eTA is only required for air travel to Canada. If you enter Canada by land (from the USA), the eTA is not needed, though you would need appropriate US entry documents.
Is the eTA required for land or sea travel into Canada?
No. The eTA is only required for air travel into Canada. Those entering by land from the United States or by sea use their passport without an eTA.
How long can Costa Rican citizens stay in Canada?
Costa Rican visitors are typically allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the border services officer at entry.
Can I work in Canada with an eTA?
No. The eTA is for tourism, family visits, and short business trips only. Working in Canada requires a separate work permit.
Can Costa Rican citizens work in Canada with an eTA?
No. The eTA and visitor status do not permit work in Canada. A work permit must be obtained separately before starting employment.
What happens if my eTA application is not approved instantly?
A small number of applications require additional review. If not approved within a few days, contact IRCC. Fly only after receiving written confirmation of eTA approval.