By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) has announced extended office hours to accommodate the anticipated surge in voter registration and cédula (national identity card) applications ahead of the 2026 national elections. This move comes as the electoral roll closes on September 30th, and the TSE aims to ensure all eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate in the February 1st, 2026 elections.
The extended hours will apply specifically to cédula applications, renewals, and changes to electoral domicile. These extended hours demonstrate the TSE’s commitment to facilitating voter participation and ensuring a smooth and accessible electoral process.
To provide further legal context to the recent Costa Rican elections, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
The recent Costa Rican elections highlight the enduring strength of the country’s democratic institutions. While the close results may lead to some political negotiation and coalition building, the peaceful transfer of power is paramount. From a legal perspective, the electoral process, while complex, provides a solid framework for navigating these transitions and ensuring the will of the people is respected.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on the robustness of Costa Rican democratic institutions offers a crucial perspective in understanding the significance of these elections. The legal framework he highlights, while intricate, ultimately serves as a bedrock for the peaceful and legitimate transfer of power, a cornerstone of any thriving democracy. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights into this complex yet vital process.
Voters will elect the President, Vice Presidents, and 57 members of the National Assembly for the 2026-2030 term. The significance of these elections underscores the TSE’s efforts to maximize voter participation.
The extended hours are as follows: The TSE’s central office in San José will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekends. All 32 regional offices will also extend their weekday hours from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and will open on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All other TSE services will continue to operate during their regular hours, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The TSE has emphasized the importance of registering or updating voter information before the September 30th deadline. Citizens are urged to take advantage of the extended hours and complete their necessary trámites promptly. This proactive approach will help prevent last-minute rushes and ensure a smoother process for all involved.
The upcoming election is a critical moment for Costa Rica, with significant implications for the country’s future direction. The TSE’s commitment to facilitating voter participation is an important step towards ensuring a fair and representative democratic process.
For those needing to obtain or update their cédula, or to change their electoral domicile, the TSE’s extended hours provide a crucial window of opportunity. Citizens are strongly encouraged to act swiftly and ensure their voices are heard in the 2026 national elections.
This initiative reflects the TSE’s ongoing efforts to promote accessible and efficient electoral processes, ultimately strengthening Costa Rican democracy. The extended hours offer a valuable opportunity for citizens to fulfill their civic duty and contribute to the nation’s democratic future.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE)
About Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) of Costa Rica is the independent governmental body responsible for organizing and overseeing elections in the country. Its main functions include maintaining the electoral roll, issuing national identity cards (cédulas), guaranteeing free and fair elections, and counting votes. The TSE plays a crucial role in upholding the integrity and transparency of Costa Rica’s democratic processes.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the community. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with its dedication to sharing legal knowledge through educational initiatives, empowers individuals and organizations alike. By fostering a greater understanding of the law, Bufete de Costa Rica contributes to a more just and informed society, solidifying its position as a leader in both the legal profession and civic engagement.
