The government of Thailand announced that starting July 15, 2024, Costa Ricans no longer have to get a visa before their trip to visit the country.
Citizens of 31 countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Paraguay, and Venezuela, who travel to Thailand strictly for tourism will have the option of applying for a visa on arrival.
But keep in mind that this option is only available if you’re staying in the country for 15 days or less. Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for a regular tourist visa.
The news was confirmed by the Embassy of Thailand in Chile, the diplomatic mission that serves Costa Ricans.
For Costa Ricans who want to visit Thailand, the visa on arrival costs $55, or 2,000 baht.
You pay this fee directly at the airport where you enter the Southeast Asian nation.
If you want to visit Thailand for more than 15 days, you do have to get your visa before the trip, and you’ll need the following documents:
- A biometric passport or travel document valid for at least 6 months
- A recent photo
- A document showing your current address
- A round-trip ticket, a ticket out to a third country, or a ticket reservation.
- Confirmed hotel reservations for your entire stay in Thailand, matching the dates on the entry and exit tickets you present.
- Payment of the $40 USD fee
Keep in mind that the traditional single-entry tourist visa is valid for a maximum of 60 days, so it’s best not to apply too far in advance, because it could expire before your trip.
The Thai government also announced that citizens of Panama, Guatemala, and Colombia will no longer need a visa to enter the country.
