Visas
Our Visa Officer is ready to assist you with your visa process and provide guidance throughout the visa application process. However, it is each person’s individual responsibility to find out what the visa requirements are for countries they might visit/transit through on their way to Costa Rica. UPEACE will not be held responsible for travel issues that result from transit visas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of visa do I need based on my visa group?
Please review the designated country groups below to identify your category and verify requirements specific to your nationality and visa type.
Note: Ensure your visa is valid for at least 6 months and permits entry to the issuing country. Always confirm entry rules with Costa Rican authorities or your embassy before travel.
Do I need a Costa Rican visa if I already have a US/Schengen visa?
Visa-required foreign nationals may be exempt from holding a Costa Rica visa if they already have a valid entry visa for one of the following countries: (1) European Union member state; (2) a Schengen country; (3) the United States; (4) Canada; (5) South Korea; or (6) Japan.
Additionally, foreign nationals of Groups 3 and 4 are exempt from holding a Costa Rica visa if they have a residence permit (not less than six months) for: (1) the United States; (2) Canada; or (3) European Union Member States.
PLEASE MAKE SURE TO INFORM OUR VISA OFFICER IF YOU HAVE A RESIDENCE PERMIT FOR THESE COUNTRIES
When should I apply to ensure that my visa will be ready by Orientation?
Although every situation is unique, our experience over the past three decades has demonstrated that temporary visas for Groups 3 and 4 usually take more time to obtain than those for Groups 1 and 2. For this reason, we recommend that residents and nationals from countries in Groups 3 and 4 submit their application at least 6 months before the start of the academic year they wish to join.
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Official Recommendations from the Office of the Registrar
Click on each image below to get official recommendations from our Registrar on what to research, bring, and do before, during, and after your arrival at UPEACE.
