Immigration Fines in Costa Rica: 2018 Moratorium Update

Immigration Fines Update

As a quick update to the imposition of immigration fines in Costa Rica, it appears that a new moratorium has been decreed.

Previously, it had been announced that starting November 1, 2018, penalties would be imposed on certain foreign nationals prior to departing the country. This included:

• Tourists with expired entry stamps

• Temporary residents or special category visa holders with an expired DIMEX

• Foreign nationals who had been notified of a rejected immigration status and had not yet filed an appeal

However, despite that announcement, the application of these penalties has been postponed. As a result, enforcement of the fines will not proceed at this time, and we will need to wait to see when—or if—these measures are ultimately applied.

Moratorium on Overstay Penalties

This moratorium effectively delays the enforcement of penalties related to overstaying in Costa Rica, including fines that were expected to be collected upon exit from the country. While the legal framework for imposing these fines had been announced, the practical implementation has once again been placed on hold.

It is important to note that this is a moratorium, not a repeal of the underlying rules. The penalties remain part of the legal structure, even if they are not currently being enforced.

Maintaining Legal Immigration Status in Costa Rica

In the meantime, foreign nationals should continue to ensure that they maintain legal status in Costa Rica. This includes taking the necessary steps required under current immigration regulations, such as:

• Completing border runs when applicable

• Renewing the DIMEX on time

• Addressing any pending immigration applications or appeals

Relying on a moratorium as a long-term strategy is not advisable. Immigration policies and enforcement practices in Costa Rica can change with little notice, and compliance remains the safest course of action.