Do I Need a Hotel Booking Confirmation for Costa Rica?
Sometimes - Costa Rica may ask for accommodation details at the border. Immigration officers occasionally request proof of where you will stay.
A hotel booking may be requested at the border - better safe than sorry
What you need to know
Who checks
The Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería handles border control at airports and land crossings.
When checked
Accommodation proof may be requested at Juan Santamaría International Airport or at land border crossings, particularly for longer stays.
If you don't have one
Travelers who cannot show accommodation plans may face additional questioning. Entry is generally not denied for this alone, but it can add delays.
How GetHotelProof helps
- Get a verified hotel booking confirmation in under 5 minutes
- Real hotel reservation with actual property details and dates
- Accepted by embassies and immigration offices worldwide
A hotel booking may be requested at the border - better safe than sorry
FAQ
Is a hotel booking required to enter Costa Rica?▾
Costa Rica does not formally require a hotel booking, but immigration officers may ask about your accommodation plans upon arrival. A booking confirmation provides a clear answer (source: Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería).
Will immigration check my hotel at San José Airport?▾
Officers at Juan Santamaría International Airport may ask arriving travelers where they will stay, especially for stays longer than two weeks (source: Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería).
Can I use an eco-lodge booking for Costa Rica?▾
Yes. Hotels, eco-lodges, hostels, and vacation rentals are all acceptable. The booking should show the property name, location, guest name, and dates (source: Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería).
