Costa Rica Medical Visa: 2025 Guide for Patients, Companions & Clinics
Quick take: Travelers coming to Costa Rica primarily for medical treatment may enter visa-free (many nationalities, up to 90 days) or need a consular visa depending on passport and stay length. Expect a hospital letter, funds & insurance proof, itinerary and—when required—a police certificate. If recovery needs more time, you can request a medical extension before your status expires.
- Who needs a visa? Visa-exempt: enter as tourists (≤90 days) → extension if medically justified. Visa-required: apply before travel with full documentation.
- Core documents: Passport, hospital/clinic letter, proof of funds, insurance, return/onward ticket, and (if requested) police certificate.
- Process: Consular filing (pre-travel) or in-country extension based on physician report and medical necessity.
As immigration law counsel at AG Legal, we coordinate patient admissions with private hospitals in San José, Escazú, and Guanacaste. Below you’ll find clear requirements, a document checklist, nationality notes, and step-by-step instructions—plus what to do if your treatment requires more time than initially authorized.
Table of Contents
Author: AG Legal • Reviewed by: Immigration Law Team • Updated: 2025-10-14
What is the Costa Rica medical visa?
“Medical visa” is a practical term for entering Costa Rica to receive treatment. Depending on your passport and stay length, you either (i) enter visa-free as a tourist and carry documentation showing a medical purpose, (ii) obtain a consular visa before travel, or (iii) request a short-stay extension in-country when a physician certifies medical necessity.
Who needs it vs. who is visa-free
- Visa-exempt nationals (e.g., U.S., Canada, U.K., most EU): Typically admitted as tourists for up to 90 days. If treatment or recovery takes longer, request a medical extension supported by a doctor’s letter.
- Visa-required nationals: Apply before travel with a hospital appointment/admission letter, proof of funds, insurance, itinerary, lodging details, and—if requested—a police certificate.
- Elective vs. urgent care: Elective procedures (dental, orthopedic, aesthetic, IVF) require pre-arranged admission. Urgent cases follow hospital triage; regularize status as soon as feasible.
Documents checklist (for patients & companions)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Ideally 6+ months validity beyond arrival. |
| Hospital/Clinic letter | On official letterhead with appointment/admission dates, treating physician, and brief purpose. |
| Proof of funds & insurance | Bank statements or sponsor letter; insurance covering procedure and complications. |
| Itinerary & lodging | Return/onward ticket and accommodation near the facility. |
| Police certificate (if requested) | Clean record; apostille/legalization may apply depending on nationality and stay length. |
Notes by nationality (quick guidance)
- U.S., Canada, U.K., EU/Schengen: Usually visa-exempt; carry your hospital letter. If recovery exceeds 90 days, file an in-country extension with physician report.
- Visa-required passports: Start early with the consular application; match your appointment date and travel itinerary to avoid re-filing.
- Mixed groups/families: Each traveler follows their passport regime; companions should bring proof of relationship and be mentioned in the hospital letter when possible.
How to apply (step by step)
- Check your entry regime: Confirm visa-exempt vs. visa-required based on nationality and planned stay.
- Obtain a hospital letter: Appointment/admission dates, treating physician, and brief purpose on letterhead.
- Compile documents: Passport, funds, insurance, itinerary, lodging, police certificate (if requested).
- Consular filing (if required): Submit per consulate instructions; attend interview if scheduled.
- Travel & admission: Carry printed copies; present medical purpose upon request.
- If you need more time: File an extension before status expiry with physician report and updated proofs.
Medical extensions (playbook)
- Get an updated physician report confirming medical need to remain in Costa Rica.
- Gather funds/insurance proofs and an updated return ticket/lodging confirmation.
- File the extension request before your current status expires.
- Respond promptly to any additional information requests from immigration.
- Keep copies of all filings for clinic appointments and travel.
Insurance, deposits & hospital coordination
- Insurance: Private international medical insurance—or a procedure-specific plan—is often expected by clinics before admission.
- Deposits/quotes: Hospitals typically issue a written quotation and request a deposit to secure the operating room or procedure slot.
- Coordination: We align immigration timelines with admission/discharge to avoid overstay and rescheduling headaches.
Major private hospitals (selection)
- Hospital CIMA (Escazú)
- Hospital Clínica Bíblica (San José/Escazú)
- Hospital Metropolitano (multiple locations)
Requirements, pricing, and scheduling policies vary by facility; always request a written plan of care and deposit instructions.
Frequently asked questions
- How long can I stay in Costa Rica for medical treatment?
- Visa-exempt travelers are usually admitted for up to 90 days. If treatment needs more time, request a medical extension with a physician report. Visa-required nationals should apply in advance and may also request extensions when justified.
- Do I need a medical letter before I travel?
- Strongly recommended. It should be on hospital/clinic letterhead with dates and the treating physician’s name.
- Can my spouse or parent accompany me?
- Yes. Companions follow the same entry regime (visa-free or consular). Bring proof of relationship and, if possible, include the companion in the hospital letter.
- What if my hospital reschedules the procedure?
- Ask for a revised letter and re-align your itinerary or extension filing. Keep documentation consistent to avoid border issues.
- Does the medical visa lead to residency?
- Not directly. For long-term stays, consider residency categories (e.g., rentista, pensionado, or investment-based options).
Helpful resources:
Talk to our immigration & health-law team
We prepare hospital letters, handle consular filings, and manage in-country extensions so your treatment and recovery stay fully compliant.
This article is informational and not legal or medical advice. Confirm current requirements with your lawyer and treating clinic.