Costa Rica Customs Regulations

When traveling through Arenal Airport, all passengers must comply with the customs regulations established by the Costa Rican government. These regulations are enforced by the Dirección General de Aduanas (General Customs Directorate) under the Ministry of Finance.

Note: Costa Rican customs laws may change without notice. This information is provided as a guide, but travelers should verify current regulations before traveling.

Customs Process for Arrivals

1

Complete Customs Declaration Form

All arriving passengers must complete a customs declaration form. These forms are distributed during your flight or are available at the customs area. You must declare all items that exceed the duty-free allowance or are restricted.

2

Present Documents

Proceed to a customs officer and present your passport, completed customs form, and any required permits for restricted items.

3

Baggage Inspection

Your baggage may be inspected by customs officers. This can be either a manual inspection or an X-ray scan. Follow all instructions given by customs officers.

4

Payment of Duties (if applicable)

If you are carrying items that exceed the duty-free allowance, you will need to pay customs duties. Payments can be made in Costa Rican colones or US dollars.

Duty-Free Allowances and Restrictions

Duty-Free Allowances

Each passenger aged 18 or older is allowed to bring in the following items duty-free:

  • Up to 5 liters of alcoholic beverages
  • Up to 500 grams (two standard packages) of tobacco products
  • Personal effects and clothing appropriate for the trip's purpose and duration
  • Items for personal use valued up to US$500

Currency Regulations

There are no restrictions on the amount of currency you can bring into or take out of Costa Rica. However, you must declare if you are carrying:

  • Cash or monetary instruments exceeding US$10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies

Failure to declare may result in seizure of the undeclared amount and potential legal penalties.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

The following items are either prohibited or restricted:

  • Illegal drugs and narcotics
  • Weapons and ammunition (without proper permits)
  • Explosives, flammable materials, and toxic substances
  • Counterfeit products and pirated goods
  • Certain plants, fruits, and agricultural products
  • Endangered species and products derived from them (CITES regulations apply)

Special Permits

Some items require special permits to bring into Costa Rica:

  • Medications: Bring only necessary amounts for personal use with a prescription
  • Animals: Require health certificates and vaccination records
  • Plants: Subject to inspection and quarantine regulations
  • Communication equipment: May require permits from Costa Rican telecommunications authority

Electronic Devices

Travelers may bring personal electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, cameras, and mobile phones for personal use without paying duty. Commercial quantities may be subject to duty and taxes.

Customs for Departing Passengers

When leaving Costa Rica through Arenal Airport, passengers should be aware of the following:

  • Export permits are required for cultural artifacts, pre-Columbian items, and certain plants and wildlife
  • The export of certain species of orchids, wildlife, and hardwoods is restricted or prohibited
  • VAT refunds are available for foreign tourists on purchases over 30,000 colones with proper documentation

Customs Contact Information

Arenal Airport Customs Office

Phone: +506 2479 8050

Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily

General Customs Directorate (Dirección General de Aduanas)

Phone: +506 2522 9000

Website: www.hacienda.go.cr