Costa Rica : Payment methods & tips

All continents Latin America and the Caribbean Costa Rica

Travel money:

Prepaid Travel credit card

in Swiss francs (CHF)

For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online

ATM Search

Banknotes

in US Dollars (USD)

Local currency / ISO Code

Costa-Rica-Colón CRC

Further Information

Import local currency
unlimited; USD 10'000.00 (equivalent) or more must be declared

Import foreign currency
unlimited; USD 10'000.00 (equivalent) or more must be declared

Export local currency
unlimited

Export foreign currency
unlimited

Credit cards

Payment by credit card is relatively common. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.

ATM Search

Find out more about Travel

Useful tips from our experts:

Cash withdrawals often only with a PIN four digit possible.
The functionality of ATMs is not always garanteed.
Credit cards are recommended for car rentals. Prepaid cards are generally accepted for payment but not for reservations. Please check the possible payment methods with the car rental company in advance.
For reasons of safety, it is advisable not to exchange cash over the amount needed immediately.
Travelers are advised to take cash in US dollar (USD).

Practical Information:

Time difference with Switzerland

- 7 h / - 8 h during our summer time

National language

Official language

Spanish

Language capabilities

English

Capital

San José

Country code for calling Switzerland

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Voltage

110/220 volt / adapter required

Travel documents for Swiss citizens

Passport still valid 6 months or more after arrival, return or onward travel ticket and proof of sufficient funds for stays up to 3 months.

Swiss Embassy / Consulate

San José, Edificio Centro Colón, 10° piso, Paseo Colón
Tel. +506 2221 48 29

Opening hours

Banks

8.30 - 15.00 h (Mon - Fri)

Stores

8.00 - 18.00 h (Mon - Sat)

Driving

Swiss driver's license accepted for car rentals if obtained at least 1 year previously, varies by rental company.
International driver's licence recommended.
Minimum age for car rentals: 21 (varies by rental company).
CH sticker, first-aid kit, bright signal jacket, fire extinguisher and breakdown triangle mandatory.
Blood alcohol limit: 0.5 ‰.

Health situation

Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Risk of dengue fever.
Risk of malaria in certain areas.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.

Other information

This country is in an active earthquake zone.

Security

High crime rate.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Beware of purse snatching, pick pocketing and auto break-ins.
Nighttime driving not advised due to high hold-up rate.

Special legal regulations

Very strict laws to fight illegal drugs.

Travel advice for Costa Rica .