Costa Rica onward travel

Costa Rica has an explicit return or onward-travel requirement and is commercially attractive for last-minute proof demand.

What travelers should expect

Official Costa Rica tourism entry guidance says visitors must have proof that they will leave the country before their visa or entry stamp expires and specifically says all travelers must have a return or onward ticket.

• Commercial transport proof can include pre-purchased bus, flight, or cruise onward travel.
• One-way arrivals and returns beyond the normal permitted stay period create the clearest proof need.

What documents usually count

Airlines normally want a return or onward flight reservation that matches the traveler name and can be checked before boarding. A real ticket hold is useful because it includes an airline reservation code and a dated itinerary.

Common arrival planning

For Costa Rica, travelers often plan around SJO - San Jose. Enter your actual route and departure date when you book so the hold matches the trip you need to document.