Can Felons Travel To Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a Central American country with a population of roughly five (5) million people. Its capital is San Jose City where half of the population is currently residing in.

However, a felon may face certain challenges when traveling. First, a felon must obtain a passport. Being a convict may pose legal obstacles in doing such. There are also countries that restrict access to convicts.

Travel Restrictions

Domestic and international laws pose travel restrictions to felons. Travel restrictions vary according to the crime an individual is convicted of. Those convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude would have stricter restrictions.

The constraints are not only limited to air travel. Traveling by land and sea is also regulated. The following are some of the restrictions as provided by various domestic and international laws:

• Individuals convicted for a drug offense will not be able to obtain a passport or travel during his or her sentence. A convict in a human-trafficking case is also prohibited likewise.
• Aside from restrictions from obtaining a passport, former felons are also restricted from getting a driver’s license. Individuals convicted of certain crimes are completely prohibited from getting a driver’s license.
• As per the S. Customs and Border Protection website, felons also cannot avail of the “trusted traveler” programs. These programs include the NEXUS, FAST, Global entry and SENTRI programs.
• Other countries also impose travel restrictions on felons. They prohibit the entry of any person convicted of a certain offense into their country. Often, countries inquire about the criminal records of the individual upon visa application.

Reasons To Travel To Costa Rica

Amidst all these, Costa Rica is a worthy destination. The Manuel Antonio National Park is known for its great beach and rich wildlife and biodiversity.

Arenal Volcano is a sight to behold. It is estimated to be at least 7,500 years old. It is one of the seven most active volcanoes in the country and one of the ten most active around the world.

Aside from the natural attractions, Costa Rica also has great architectural landmarks like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels at Cartago, Iglesia de San Bartolomé de Barva and Museum of Contemporary Art and Design.

The country is a great destination to spend time with family and friends. The place has a lot of things to offer to its tourists.

Requirements To Enter Costa Rica

American Citizens do not need to get a visa to enter the country. Similarly, those who possess a US or Canadian Visa do not need a tourist visa to visit Costa Rica. According to the U.S. Passports and International travel website, the following are the requirements to enter Costa Rica:

1. Passport

The passport must at least have six months remaining in its validity before entering the country. The passport must not be damaged in any way as entry may be denied because of this.

2. Return Ticket

A return ticket or a proof of onward travel to another destination is also needed.

3. Proof of financial capacity

Tourists must have at least $100 USD for each month of the proposed stay.

4. Yellow Fever Vaccine

If traveling to Costa Rica from the countries mentioned below, you would need a yellow fever vaccine. The following countries are considered at risk of yellow fever: Congo, Angola, Burkina Faso, Benin, Gabon, Gambia, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, Guinea, Liberia, Sudan, Sierra Leone, Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana and Peru.

Whether or not you are a felon, visiting Costa Rica is a must. The place is a great escape from the hustles and bustles of the city. A vacation at the luscious beaches and forests of Costa Rica is a great way to rest and relax.