Trips from Costa Rica to Israel usually involve long-haul flights with one or more international connections, often requiring careful coordination of routes and travel dates. Costa Rican visitors travel for a range of reasons, including cultural interests, religious exploration, professional coordination, and short personal visits. Because these journeys are typically planned well in advance, having entry requirements resolved early helps reduce uncertainty during transit and arrival.

Is a visa required for Costa Rican passport holders?

Costa Rican passport holders do not need to obtain a traditional consular visa for short visits to Israel. Instead, Israel applies a visa-free framework that requires travelers from Costa Rica to secure an approved ETA-IL before departure.

This arrangement applies only to temporary stays covered under the ETA-IL system. Activities such as paid employment, academic study, or long-term residence are not included and must follow a separate visa process through diplomatic channels.

ETA-IL validity period and reuse conditions

Once approved, the ETA-IL remains valid for two years, provided the passport linked to the authorization stays valid. During this time, Costa Rican travelers may enter Israel multiple times without submitting a new request for each trip.

If a passport is renewed or replaced, a new authorization must be obtained before traveling again.

Length of stay permitted per visit

Each entry under the ETA-IL allows a stay of up to 90 days. The authorization does not permit extensions, changes of status, or conversion into long-term stay categories.
Remaining in Israel beyond the permitted duration may affect future travel eligibility.

Submitting the ETA-IL request before travel from Costa Rica

Before traveling, Costa Rican citizens must complete the ETA-IL request as part of Israel’s advance entry screening process. This step is handled entirely online and is designed to confirm eligibility ahead of departure rather than during travel. Preparing accurate information in advance helps reduce delays and avoid issues during check-in or transit.

When submitting the request, Costa Rican travelers should be prepared to:

  • Access the digital entry authorization page to begin
  • Enter personal details exactly as shown in the passport
  • Provide passport information linked to the intended trip
  • Confirm the purpose and expected timing of the visit
  • Review all information carefully before final submission
  • Complete payment using an accepted online method

Once submitted, the information cannot be edited, so careful review at this stage is essential.

Who may apply under the ETA-IL framework from Costa Rica

The ETA-IL system is available to Costa Rican nationals who meet Israel’s short-stay entry conditions and are listed among ETA-IL eligible countries.

Applicants must hold a valid Costa Rican passport and intend to visit Israel temporarily without engaging in work, study, or relocation. Even when these conditions are met, approval remains subject to review.

Practical travel considerations and common issues for Costa Rican visitors

While the ETA-IL simplifies travel preparation, Costa Rican visitors should remain mindful of practical details. Travelers must carry the same passport used for the application and ensure passport validity covers the intended stay.

Common issues include inconsistent personal details, last-minute submissions, or passport validity concerns. Addressing these points in advance supports a smoother travel experience.