Will I be required to pay a departure tax?
Good to Know
Travelers departing from Costa Rica's LIR or SJO airports are subject to a $29 USD departure tax. While many airlines now include this fee in ticket prices, it must be paid before check-in if not. Payment options include colones, U.S. dollars, or Visa credit/debit cards, with a $10 fee for card transactions. The process is typically quick, taking under 10 minutes at airport counters.
Yes, everyone departing from LIR or SJO must pay the $ 29 USD departure tax, though most airlines now include it in the price of the ticket (please check with your airline). This must be paid before airline check-in for your departure flight. There is a departure tax counter at each airport. You can pay with colones, U.S. dollars, or with a Visa credit or debit card. If paying with a credit or debit card, an additional fee ($10) will be charged as it will be processed as a cash advance. Under normal circumstances, the process is quick and easy, usually taking less than 10 minutes. Some (not all) airport hotels will process this for you for an additional fee.
Click here for more information about the Costa Rica airport departure tax. Regulations are subject to change by the government of Costa Rica without notice.
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Will I be required to pay a departure tax?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a departure tax required when leaving Costa Rica?
Yes, all travelers departing from Liberia (LIR) or San José (SJO) airports must pay a $29 USD departure tax.
How can the Costa Rica departure tax be paid?
The departure tax can be paid with Costa Rican colones, U.S. dollars, or a Visa credit or debit card. Note that card payments incur an additional $10 fee as they are processed as a cash advance.
Where and when should I pay the departure tax?
The departure tax must be paid before airline check-in at the designated departure tax counter at LIR or SJO airports. Some airport hotels may also process this for an additional fee.
Do airlines include the departure tax in ticket prices?
Most airlines now include the $29 USD departure tax in the ticket price, but it is advisable to confirm this directly with your airline.