Costa Rica customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Costa Rica enforces strict biosecurity — expect bag x-rays and detector dogs on arrival. The most common traveller mistake is failing to declare fruit, meat, or wooden souvenirs; fines start at $100 USD and can reach $1,000 USD. These rules apply to all non-resident adults arriving by air in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 litres of wine/beer. Must be 18+. Over this, duty is 15%–30% depending on alcohol content.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Declare any amount over ₡5,600,000 (approx. $10,000 USD) in cash or monetary instruments. Use the Customs Declaration Form (Form DFA-01) at the red channel.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to $800 USD (₡448,000). Above that, a flat 15% duty applies on the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and illegal drugs (including marijuana, even for medical use without prior authorization)
  • Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products
  • Firearms and ammunition without a special permit from the Ministry of Public Security
  • Endangered species products (e.g., turtle shells, coral, jaguar fur)
  • Explosives, fireworks, and flammable materials
  • Pornographic material (deemed obscene by Costa Rican law)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (require prior Ministry of Health authorization)
  • Plants, seeds, and soil (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Drones (must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority; use is restricted near airports and national parks)
  • Satellite phones and encrypted communication devices (require prior approval from the Ministry of Science and Technology)
  • Hunting trophies and wildlife products (require CITES permit)

Arriving: red vs green channel

After collecting your luggage, you'll pass through a biosecurity checkpoint where dogs sniff bags for food/plants. Then proceed to the customs area: green channel if you have nothing to declare (and no restricted items), red channel if you exceed allowances or carry anything restricted. A digital customs declaration may be required on some flights — check with your airline.

Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds

Tourists can claim a 13% VAT refund on purchases over ₡100,000 (approx. $180 USD) from participating stores. The scheme is called 'Tax Free Costa Rica'. Get your form stamped at the airport's Tax Free counter before check-in, then collect cash or card refund at the Banco de Costa Rica window after security.

Bringing medication

Personal medications are allowed for up to 30 days' supply in original packaging. Carry a doctor's prescription (in Spanish or English). Controlled substances (e.g., opioids, stimulants) require prior authorization from the Ministry of Health. Some common decongestants containing pseudoephedrine are restricted — check before you pack.

Food, plants & animal products

No fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, seeds, or plants are allowed without a phytosanitary certificate. Processed, sealed foods (e.g., chocolate, canned goods) are generally okay if declared. Wooden handicrafts and souvenirs must be declared and may be inspected for pests.

Rules worth knowing

No duty-free on arrival

Costa Rica does not have an arrival duty-free shop. You must bring your duty-free items with you from your departure airport.

Cash declaration is mandatory

If you carry more than $10,000 USD (or equivalent in any currency) you must declare it on the customs form. Failure to do so can result in seizure of the funds and a fine.

Plastic bags banned

Costa Rica bans single-use plastic bags. You may be asked to unpack items at security. Bring a reusable bag for your carry-on liquids.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but you must register it with the Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) before flying. Drones are banned in national parks, near airports, and over crowds. Fines for flying illegally can exceed $500 USD.
No, personal electronics for your own use are not subject to duty. But if you bring multiple expensive items (e.g., two laptops), customs may consider them commercial goods and charge duty.
Yes, commercially packaged and sealed coffee and chocolate are allowed. Declare them at the biosecurity checkpoint to avoid any issue.
You can get a replacement form at the customs office in the arrivals hall. It's best to fill it out before you reach the counter to avoid delays.
No restrictions on personal quantities. However, aerosol cans must be in checked luggage if over 100ml. Costa Rica bans sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate — check labels.
Yes, no limit. But if you bring more than a 3-month supply of contact lenses, customs may ask for a prescription.
Yes, the 'Tax Free Costa Rica' scheme refunds 13% VAT on purchases over ₡100,000 (approx. $180 USD) from participating stores. Get your form stamped at the airport before check-in.

Official source

Ministerio de Hacienda de Costa Rica — Dirección General de Aduanas

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Ministerio de Hacienda de Costa Rica — Dirección General de Aduanas before travelling.