Proof of Onward Travel for Costa Rica
What airlines check before flights to Costa Rica, and what counts as proof at the check-in desk.
Checked almost every time
Why Costa Rica asks for it
Costa Rica is one of the strictest countries in Latin America on proof of exit. Airlines flying into San José and Liberia check before boarding as a matter of routine.
Where it is checked: Check-in desk for flights to San José (SJO) and Liberia (LIR).
Airlines that commonly check
- Spirit
- JetBlue
- Avianca
- Copa Airlines
- United
Common onward routes from Costa Rica
- SJO → PTY
- SJO → MEX
- LIR → SAL
- SJO → BOG
What counts at check-in
Airlines expect a real booking they can check against your name and dates. If you are flying one-way, book how you will leave before you go:
- A return flight on the same ticket
- A separately booked onward flight to another country
- A bus, train or ferry ticket leaving the country, where accepted
Frequently asked questions
Do I need proof of onward travel for Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is one of the strictest countries in Latin America on proof of exit. Airlines flying into San José and Liberia check before boarding as a matter of routine. Checked almost every time: check-in desk for flights to san josé (sjo) and liberia (lir).
Which airlines ask for it on flights to Costa Rica?
Travellers most often report being asked by Spirit, JetBlue, Avianca, Copa Airlines, United. Airlines enforce this because they are fined if a passenger is refused entry, so the check happens before you board rather than on arrival.
What counts as proof of onward travel for Costa Rica?
A real booking that the airline can check: a return flight on your ticket, a separately booked onward flight, or a bus, train or ferry ticket leaving the country where accepted. Requirements vary, so confirm with your airline.
Can I use a FastOnward document at check-in for Costa Rica?
No. FastOnward produces a flight reservation document for documentation purposes, such as a visa application. It is not a real airline ticket or booking, its PNR cannot be verified with the airline and it cannot be used for boarding or as proof of onward travel at check-in.
Applying for a visa?
FastOnward flight reservation documents are for documentation needs such as visa applications. They are not a real ticket, cannot be verified with the airline and cannot be used at check-in.
Get a flight reservation documentEntry rules change. Confirm the current requirements with Costa Rica Directorate General of Migration and with your airline before you travel.
