Costa Rica Airport Departure Tax
Good to Know
Travelers departing Costa Rica are subject to a $29 airport departure tax. Historically paid separately at airport counters or select hotels, this fee can be settled in US dollars, colones, or via credit card, though card payments incur an additional $10 cash advance charge. As of December 3, 2014, the tax is intended to be included in airline tickets; however, passengers should verify inclusion with their airline. If not included, the tax must be paid separately.
There is a $29 Costa Rica airport departure tax that everybody has to pay in order to leave the country. This is payable at a special counter at each of the airports. A few airport hotels handle this as well, but they generally add a few dollars for handling charges.
The Costa Rica airport departure tax can be paid in US dollars or the equivalent amount in colones. Credit cards are accepted, but they treat this as a cash advance and charge you an additional $10 to do so.
Most countries have an airport departure tax, but they allow the airlines to include it in your ticket price. For some unknown reason Costa Rica does not allow this, which is why you have to pay in person.
UPDATE: As of December 3, 2014, the tax is supposed to be sold with airline tickets purchased from that date and moving forward. It will be fun to see how this plays out as thousands of people have already purchased flight tickets that did not include the tax. We recommend checking with your airline to see if the tax is included or not. It is likely that you will have to use the old system if the tax was not included in the price of your airfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Costa Rica airport departure tax?
It is a $29 fee required for everyone departing Costa Rica.
Where can I pay the Costa Rica airport departure tax?
The tax is payable at a special counter at each airport. Some airport hotels also handle it, typically with an added service charge.
How can I pay the Costa Rica airport departure tax?
Payment is accepted in US dollars or the equivalent in colones. Credit cards are also accepted, but they are processed as a cash advance and incur an additional $10 fee.
Is the Costa Rica airport departure tax included in airline tickets?
As of December 3, 2014, the tax is supposed to be included in airline tickets purchased from that date. Travelers should confirm with their airline if the tax is included; otherwise, it must be paid separately.