Provisional Visa for Students, Investigators, Teachers and Volunteers
Costa Rica
Last updated: December 22, 2025
12 months (renewable)
$185
3-4 weeks
Low
About this Visa
This visa lets you volunteer in Costa Rica for up to 12 months. It's for people who want to work for charities, schools, research organizations, or community groups—not for paid jobs. You must get an acceptance letter from a Costa Rican organization before you apply. The organization confirms you'll volunteer there and for how long. This visa is different from a tourist visa. Tourists can visit for free, but you need this special visa to volunteer legally.
Key Benefits
- Stay legally in Costa Rica for 12 months
- Travel freely around the country
- Volunteer without pay restrictions
- Join Costa Rica public health system
- Renewable multiple times
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 years old or older
- No serious criminal convictions
- Must have acceptance letter from Costa Rican organization
- Must prove sufficient financial means
- If under 18: Need parent's written permission
- Citizens of certain African and South American countries must show yellow fever vaccination proof
Financial Requirement
Must prove sufficient funds to support yourself. No exact minimum set—depends on stay length and location in Costa Rica. Bank statements usually work.
Documents
- Valid passport6+ months validity
- Birth certificateTranslated to Spanish and legally certified
- Police recordFrom home country, translated to Spanish and legally certified
- Organization acceptance letterFrom Costa Rican organization confirming volunteer period
- Proof of fundsBank statements showing sufficient money
- Passport photos3 photos with light gray background
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.