Are you thinking about traveling to Costa Rica but aren’t sure about the COVID-19 travel restrictions in the country? While most of the travel requirements and policies remain the same, Costa Rica has made several changes to adapt to the changing dynamics caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The country was one of the first few to open its borders to international tourists and digital nomads in 2020, and after a hiatus in 2021 due to an alarming rate of COVID-related hospitalizations and deaths, the country is finally deemed safe for travelers once again. However, before you plan your visit to beautiful Costa Rica, there are a few things you must remember.
Traveling to Costa Rica during the pandemic
Costa Rica allowed tourism in the country back in November 2020 after a long break prompted by the increased number of coronavirus cases. It became one of the first few countries that opened its borders to tourists. Now with several updates in the taxes and visa policies specifically for those working remotely, many tourists are visiting Costa Rica for exploration and adventures. Here are a few things you must know before traveling to Costa Rica.
Health pass and Covid-19 vaccine
The Costa Rican Health Pass has replaced the travel requirement that only allowed tourists to enter the country upon submission of a negative COVID-19 PCR test. All tourists traveling to Costa Rica should fill out the online form within the first 72 hours of travel. Once you fill out the form, the website will provide a QR code which is to be shown on arrival in the country. Tourists do not have to be vaccinated to enter the country.
However, as of December 1, 2021, through March 7, 2022, new vaccine mandate requirements have been set for commercial establishments, and that influences how businesses can operate.
Businesses that are included in this mandate are:
Hotels, lodging establishments, and cabins
Bars
Restaurants
Stores
Museums
Casinos
Art and dance academies
Adventure Tourism
Spas
Gyms
That said, it’s a volunteer approach as to how businesses will enforce this mandate. Should the business choose not to require proof of vaccination upon entering its premises, then it must operate at a 50% maximum capacity. But if they want to operate at 100% capacity, they must enforce proof of vaccination prior to entering their premises. Businesses must have a sign outside of their establishment that informs people what option they have chosen.
While entry to the country is not restricted, the COVID-19 vaccine rules on the ground will make it a little bit more challenging for tourists to get around and decide which activities to partake in. It’s best to call the chosen place or adventure activity before booking to better understand what requirements they have for operating to avoid any disappointments.
Additionally, minors will not be required to show proof of vaccination, and those exempt due to medical conditions should have proof from the doctor. Documents should be presented in English or Spanish. Information in any other language will not be accepted.
For those who are vaccinated, Costa Rica has listed seven vaccines that have been authorized – these include Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna, Sinopharm, Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac, and Covaxin.
Health insurance policies
As of August 2021, travel requirements pertaining to health insurance have also been updated to accommodate those who are fully vaccinated. If you’re fully vaccinated or are below the age of 18, you will not require health insurance for travel to Costa Rica. You can also add proof of your vaccination to the Health Pass website. However, you must ensure that the vaccination was administered 14 days prior to your entry into the country.
In contrast, if you’re not fully vaccinated, you’ll need health insurance covering approximately $50,000 worth of coronavirus-related medical expenses and $2,000 for quarantine accommodation. Currently, there is no mandatory quarantine period upon arrival to the country.
Follow the Standard Operating Procedures [SOPs] for safety
While traveling to Costa Rica is safe now, and it has reached 70% of the pre-pandemic tourists in 2021, you must still follow all standard SOPs as highlighted by the government and the WHO. Getting vaccinated is given the most priority, but social distancing is still compulsory to ensure everyone’s safety. Enjoyment and adventures aside, your trip to Costa Rica should in no way jeopardize anyone’s health or safety.
Wearing a mask, maintaining a social distance, frequent sanitization, and washing your hands remain a priority amongst travelers – regardless of where they are going. Additionally, if you develop symptoms, it’s best to get tested and self-isolate immediately.
What traveling to Costa Rica will look like in 2022
The Costa Rican president has signed a law allowing digital nomads to work remotely from Costa Rica and request qualifying family members to accompany them during their stay in the country as dependents. These individuals will be required to show proof of annual income totaling approximately $3,000 and the total family income amounting to almost $5,000.
Planning a trip to Guanacaste, Costa Rica?
If you are planning a trip to Guanacaste, Costa Rica to enjoy its breathtaking beaches, have fun adventures, and sample scrumptious cuisines, we are happy to assist with accommodations. Check our availability rates on Airbnb.
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