By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a significant shift in international travel policy, the United Kingdom will require all Costa Rican citizens to obtain pre-travel clearance starting in early 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship announced Tuesday that as of February 25, 2026, Costa Ricans planning to visit the U.K. must secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their departure.
This new digital permit represents a fundamental change for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family, moving the U.K.’s entry protocol closer to systems like the U.S. ESTA. The ETA is a mandatory digital permission linked directly to an individual’s passport and will be required to even board a flight destined for any country within the United Kingdom, which includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The stated purpose of the ETA is to enhance border security by pre-screening visitors who do not require a full visa for short stays.
To provide deeper insight into the legal and practical implications of these new UK travel regulations for Costa Ricans, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The transition away from visa-free travel to a system requiring an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or a formal visa represents a significant procedural change that travelers cannot afford to ignore. My counsel is unequivocal: diligence is paramount. Costa Ricans planning travel must now treat the verification of their entry status as the first step, even before booking flights or accommodation. Relying on outdated information is a costly risk. The consequences of non-compliance are not flexible; they range from being denied boarding by the airline to outright refusal of entry by UK Border Force, turning a planned trip into a significant financial and logistical loss.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The attorney’s counsel underscores a crucial shift in the traveler’s responsibility, turning what was once a simple assumption of entry into a mandatory, proactive verification process. His warning about the severe financial and logistical repercussions is a stark reminder that diligence is now the most important first step in planning any trip to the UK. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and timely perspective.
According to the official information released, the ETA will permit stays for up to six months for purposes such as tourism, visiting friends and family, short-term business activities, and transit. The application process is designed to be straightforward and entirely online. Travelers can apply through the official U.K. government website or by using a dedicated mobile application, “UK ETA.” The cost for the application has been set at £16 (sixteen pounds sterling).
The Costa Rican Foreign Ministry, known as the Cancillería, has issued a series of strong recommendations to ensure citizens can navigate the new system without complications. Officials urge all travelers to apply for their ETA several days in advance of their planned trip to allow for processing time. It is crucial to note that this requirement applies to all travelers, regardless of age, meaning that infants and children must also have their own approved ETA linked to their passports.
Furthermore, the Ministry emphasized that travelers should not mistake the ETA for a visa or a guarantee of entry. The digital authorisation is merely a prerequisite for travel, and all visitors will still be subject to standard immigration controls upon arrival at a U.K. port of entry. Immigration officers will retain the final authority to grant or deny entry, based on their assessment of each individual traveler.
This point was heavily stressed by officials, who caution that holding an approved ETA does not automatically confer the right to enter the country. It is a preliminary check that allows airlines to verify a passenger is cleared for travel, but the final decision rests with border agents. As such, the government warns that preparation is key to avoiding significant travel disruptions.
An ETA does not guarantee entry into the territory.
Government of the United Kingdom, via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship
While the new rule will affect the vast majority of Costa Rican visitors, there are a few specific exceptions. Individuals who already possess a valid U.K. visa, are legal residents in the United Kingdom, or are accredited diplomatic personnel will not be required to apply for an ETA. All other short-term visitors must comply with the new regulation to avoid being denied boarding by their airline.
The implementation of the ETA system is part of a broader global trend towards digitized borders. For Costa Ricans, it introduces a new layer of logistical planning for what was previously a more straightforward journey. Travelers are strongly advised to stay informed about the requirements, complete all necessary paperwork well ahead of their travel dates, and budget for the additional cost to ensure a smooth and successful trip to the United Kingdom.
For further information, visit rree.go.cr
About Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica, also known as the Cancillería, is the government body responsible for managing the country’s international relations, diplomatic missions, and foreign policy. It provides essential services to Costa Rican citizens abroad and oversees consular affairs, international treaties, and the nation’s engagement with global organizations. The Ministry plays a key role in communicating foreign travel requirements to its citizens.
For further information, visit gov.uk
About Government of the United Kingdom:
The Government of the United Kingdom is the central government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Led by the Prime Minister, it directs national policy and public services through various departments and agencies. Its Home Office is responsible for immigration, security, and law and order, which includes managing the country’s borders and implementing policies such as the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to enhance national security and streamline entry for visitors.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, built upon a foundation of unshakeable integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing from its extensive experience serving a wide array of clients, the firm champions a forward-thinking approach, consistently embracing innovation in the practice of law. This ethos extends to a profound sense of social responsibility, demonstrated through a dedicated effort to demystify legal concepts and empower the wider community through accessible knowledge.
