Two things are worth knowing before you book. The passport can only be applied for in person at a consulate — there is no online route from the United States — and the identity card is free, which makes the order in which you do things worth thinking about.
Quick facts
Costa Rica maintains a comparatively large network for a small country, with consulates across the United States, so jurisdiction by state of residence usually means a manageable journey.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport, adult | Around $100 | Confirm with your consulate |
| Identity card | Free | Issued through the civil registry |
| Registration of a child’s birth | Free | See the civil records page |
| Apostille of U.S. documents | $3–$25 | Secretary of State |
| Sworn declaration for a lost passport | Consular tariff | Required for replacements |
That the identity card and the birth registration cost nothing is unusual in this directory, and it means the only real expense in a family file is the passport itself and the apostilles.
How to apply
- Book the appointment with the consulate covering your state.
- Complete and sign the application form beforehand.
- Attend in person: your details and the photograph are taken at the counter.
- Bring your identity card, the expired passport and proof of payment.
- For a minor, bring the birth certificate and the required consent.
- For a lost or stolen passport, bring a sworn declaration.
Required documents
- Costa Rican identity card.
- Completed and signed application form.
- Previous passport where you have one.
- Proof of payment.
- Birth certificate for a minor’s application.
- Consent document where one parent is absent.
Where to apply
At the consulate covering your state of residence, by appointment. There is no postal or online route.
No offices currently listed.
Additional notes
If your identity card expired long ago
Where a card has been expired for more than ten years, the consulate requires you to attend with two witnesses of Costa Rican nationality, each with their valid identity card in original and copy. It is a real requirement and worth arranging in advance.
Allow an hour at the counter
The consulates say plainly that the appointment itself takes about an hour. Plan the day around it rather than fitting it into a lunch break.
The card takes two months
Applications go to the civil registry in Costa Rica, and a new identity card can take up to two months to come back to the consulate. Collection is in person.
Do both in one trip
If the card is due as well, arrange both so you only make the journey once.