Crossing Borders & Shifting Gears in Costa Rica: What Expats Need to Know in 2025

The days of breezing through the border are over.

If you're living, renting, or planning to buy property in Costa Rica, you’ll want to know what’s really happening at the Panama land border—and on the roads.

Because in 2025, Costa Rica tightened the rules at immigration… but finally made things easier for drivers.

Let’s break down what changed—and how to stay ready.

Land Border Stamps Are Back to 90 Days

Travelers crossing into Costa Rica by land—especially at Paso Canoas or Peñas Blancas—are now receiving 90-day tourist stamps, not 180.

This shift is official. Multiple travelers have confirmed that their passports, even when previously eligible for longer stays, were stamped for just 90 days at the land entry.

And here’s the kicker: immigration officers still have discretion. If they see a return ticket dated two weeks out, they may only give you 14 days—regardless of your plans. To get the full 90, carry proof of a departure at least 175 days away.

No law was technically changed—just enforcement. But for expats who time their residency process or border runs around these visits, it’s a crucial update.

Paso Canoas Now Feels Like an International Airport

Welcome to the new era of border control.

If you cross at Paso Canoas, expect a full checkpoint experience that rivals the San José airport. You’ll now:

– Pull in and park at a new immigration complex– Enter the Ministry of Health screening line (expect questions about malaria and yellow fever)– Go through passport control and customs– Scan your luggage through X-rays like at an airport– Have your car inspected, including trunk, spare tire, under seats, gas cap—you name it

Some vehicles are even fumigated.

If you're bringing goods, expect to declare them and go through a dedicated aduana checkpoint. If you’re not prepared—no registration, title, or export permit for your car—you’ll likely be turned away or rerouted.

Driving Just Got Easier: Foreign License Valid for 180 Days

Finally, some good news.

Under Costa Rica’s 2025 traffic law reform, you can now legally drive with your foreign license for up to 180 days, as long as your tourist visa is valid for that same period.

That means:

– If you fly in and receive a 180-day tourist stamp, your home country license is valid the entire time– If you enter at a land border and only get 90 days, that’s your driving limit too

Major rental agencies like Adobe Rent-a-Car have already confirmed this across their sites and contracts. This change corrects the previous mismatch, where visitors could stay longer but drive for only 90 days.

For digital nomads, retirees, and property scouts—it’s a small but significant win.

What This Means for You

– If you're planning to stay long-term, remember: border stamps are now 90 days by default at land entries

– If you're driving, check your visa stamp—it determines how long you can legally be behind the wheel

– If you're crossing with a car, bring everything: title, registration, and proof of export permission

– Leave extra time—this is not the casual crossing of years past

Costa Rica’s Still Paradise—Just With More Paperwork

This country still welcomes dreamers, investors, and sun-chasers. But those who thrive here know it takes a bit of planning.

Whether you’re relocating, exploring property, or crossing for a quick reset, 2025’s rules require a little more preparation—and a lot less assumption.

Need help planning your property journey in Costa Rica?

Arcadia offers smart, commission-free marketing plans for property sellers—and real support for expats navigating the details.

Visit arcadiacostaricarealestate.com or message us on WhatsApp at +506-8783-3230.

We’re here to help you cross smarter and sell faster.