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Costa Rica · Commonly Requested at Officer Discretion

Costa Rica Minor Travel Consent Letter

Costa Rica: Commonly Requested at Officer Discretion.

Regardless of the enforcement level shown, every government and airline recommends carrying a notarized parental/guardian consent letter for any minor traveling without both legal parents — it's the single cheapest, easiest way to avoid a problem with an individual officer or check-in agent anywhere in the world. Requirements can also apply on departure, not just arrival, so check both directions of your trip.

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Costa Rica at a glance

Commonly Requested at Officer Discretion. Costa Rican immigration has real child-protection measures, particularly for minors DEPARTING the country without both parents — carrying a notarized consent letter for your whole trip, not just arrival, avoids issues.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a consent letter to bring my child to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica: Commonly Requested at Officer Discretion. Costa Rican immigration has real child-protection measures, particularly for minors DEPARTING the country without both parents — carrying a notarized consent letter for your whole trip, not just arrival, avoids issues.

What does "Commonly Requested at Officer Discretion" mean?

Costa Rica's immigration officials commonly ask for documented consent at their discretion, especially for minors traveling with only one parent or a non-parent — carrying a notarized letter avoids delays.

What should a good consent letter include?

The absent parent's or guardian's full name, signature, and contact information; the traveling parent's or companion's name and relationship to the child; the specific travel dates and destination(s); and notarization — a signature alone usually isn't enough.

Does this only matter on arrival?

Regardless of the enforcement level shown, every government and airline recommends carrying a notarized parental/guardian consent letter for any minor traveling without both legal parents — it's the single cheapest, easiest way to avoid a problem with an individual officer or check-in agent anywhere in the world. Requirements can also apply on departure, not just arrival, so check both directions of your trip.