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🇿🇲 Does a Zambian need a visa for Costa Rica 🇨🇷?

What this means for your trip

You apply at an embassy, consulate or authorised visa centre of the destination, usually with an application form, passport photos, bank statements, travel itinerary and accommodation bookings.

Processing takes days to weeks, and some embassies require an interview; start the application well before your trip.

Your passport should normally be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and have blank pages for stamps; many countries apply this rule.

Costa Rica at a glance

Capital: San José · Currency: Costa Rican colón (CRC, ₡) · Official languages: Spanish · Calling code: +506

U.S. State Department travel advisory for Costa Rica: Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution (updated 2 April 2026). It is written for U.S. citizens; read the advisory before you book.

Plugs and voltage

You need a travel adapter: Costa Rica uses plug types A, B, Zambia uses C, G. Mains voltage differs (Costa Rica: 120 V; Zambia: 230 V): most phone and laptop chargers accept 100–240 V, but single-voltage devices such as some hair dryers need a converter.

More about entering Costa Rica →

Easier destinations near Costa Rica for Zambian passport holders

• 🇧🇿 Belize — Visa-free
• 🇳🇮 Nicaragua — Visa on arrival
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda — Visa-free 180 days
• 🇧🇸 Bahamas — Visa-free 90 days
• 🇧🇧 Barbados — Visa-free 180 days
• 🇩🇲 Dominica — Visa-free 180 days
• 🇪🇨 Ecuador — Visa-free 90 days
• 🇬🇩 Grenada — Visa-free 90 days

The other way round

🇨🇷 Costa Rican passport holders visiting Zambia: Costa Rican passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Zambia, usually at the airport or land border.

The Zambian passport at a glance

All destinations for Zambia passport holders → · Who needs a visa for Costa Rica →

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