Federal Aviation Administration Upgrades Costa Rica’s Safety Assessment Rating
FAA News Federal Aviation Administration, Washington, DC 20591 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 11, 2021 Contact: Pressoffice@faa.gov Federal Aviation Administration Upgrades Costa Rica’s Safety Assessment Rating WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced today that the Republic of Costa Rica complies with international safety standards and has been granted the ... Read More»
Joe Biden sworn in as 46th U.S. president
Joseph R. Biden Jr. was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States on Wednesday, January 20. Minutes before, Kamala D. Harris took the oath of office to become the first woman, the first Black American, and the first South Asian American to be elected vice president. “We’ll be a strong and trusted ... Read More»
United States Supports Costa Rica to Purchase Police Vessels
U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires (CdA) Gloria Berbena highlights the United States’ role in the Ministry of Public Security’s purchase of three vessels from the U.S. company Metal Shark, a firm specialized in the design of vessels for law enforcement purposes. CdA Berbena indicated that for decades both Costa Rica and the United States have fought ... Read More»
Visa Services Available
Press Release December 15th, 2020 The U.S. Embassy suspended routine visa services on March 18 of this year due to Covid-19 and, at this time, there is no specific date to resume appointments to obtain a visa. This means that those who wish to apply for a visa for the first time will not be ... Read More»
San Carlos, Heredia, Cartago and Desamparados Have More Voices against Domestic Violence
Thanks to the program Hacete Escuchar (“Make Yourself Heard”) developed by U.S. Embassy San Jose’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) office, 296 young people received virtual training to learn to detect domestic violence, seek help, develop self-esteem, build trust, recognize signs of abusive relationships, learn about 9-1-1, and how not to be afraid to ... Read More»
Offices of Women’s Affairs Across the Country Receive Personal Protection Equipment
The U.S. Embassy’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) donated hand sanitizer, gloves, face shields and digital thermometers to Offices of Women’s Affairs located in 72 municipalities nationwide. The donation, valued at USD 8,700, brings support to the vital work that the Office of Women’s Affairs performs in the country. The office ... Read More»
Expanding Interview Waivers to Include NIV Applicants Renewing within 24 Months of Expiration
Effective August 25, 2020 through December 31, 2020, the United States Department of State has expanded the field of individuals eligible for visa renewal to those who have had a valid visa expire within the last 24 months. The previous requirement was to have had a valid visa expire within 12 months. Accordingly, the Consular ... Read More»
Press Realease: Humanitarian Flights
Friday, July 3, 2020 Humanitarian Flights The U.S. Embassy, in coordination with airlines United and Spirit and the Costa Rican government, has organized regular humanitarian flights since the closure of the Costa Rican border. On these humanitarian flights, Costa Ricans have been able to return home, as have Americans. Early in the course of ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Donates Lab Supplies
The U.S. Embassy Office of Defense Representative donated lab supplies to the Costa Rican Social Security Council (CCSS). June 25, 2020 These devices include a mixing scale, a blood bag tube sealer, plasma separators and automatic tubing homogenizers (auto-roller), which are required for Costa Rica to continue the production of coronavirus antigens (proteins) and to ... Read More»
Funding for English Language, STEAM & Entrepreneurship Programs
Notice of Funding Opportunity Funding Opportunity Title: Funding for English Language, STEAM & Entrepreneurship Programs Funding Opportunity Number: 4112-FY20-01 Deadline for Applications: July 8, 2020 CFDA Number: 19.040 Public Diplomacy Programs Total Amount Available: $100,000 (minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $25,000 per award) PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition ... Read More»
Donation for the CNE
The U.S. Embassy’s Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA) donated 1,200 reusable protective face shields to Costa Rica’s National Commission for Risk Prevention and Disaster Response (CNE). The donation is for all member institutions of the National Risk Management System, currently attending the pandemic caused by COVID19 in the country. The face shields are valued ... Read More»
Second Generation of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Graduates in Costa Rica
A group of 27 Costa Rican women entrepreneurs graduated from the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE). This program allowed this group of entrepreneurs to learn new skills, create business plans and explore fundamental topics to help their commercial activities grow as they build a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities. U.S. Ambassador ... Read More»
Virtual Conference Gathers Central American Strategic Partners
The United States government is organizing the virtual conference ‘Smart Cities and Digital Transformation’ to gather with its Central American counterparts and jointly develop a roadmap to the future, in preparation for new global industry trends and technologies, the economic impact on emerging markets, current infrastructure, and national security. U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day highlighted the ... Read More»
Diversity Visas: New Date to Verify Entrant Status Check
Department of State Diversity Immigrant Visa Program is postponing the opening of the Entrant Status Check for applicants from May 5 to June 6, 2020. Beginning June 6, applicants will be able to use their unique confirmation number provided at registration to check the online Entrant Status Check at https://dvprogram.state.gov/ to see if their entry was ... Read More»
The U.S. fights coronavirus worldwide [rolling updates]
This rolling collection of photos, tweets and articles offers a snapshot of the U.S. commitment to fighting COVID-19 worldwide. We will update frequently. Follow this link for more information: https://share.america.gov/u-s-fights-coronavirus-worldwide-live-updates-2/ Read More»
Global Level 4 Health Advisory – Do Not Travel
The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. ... Read More»
U.S. scientists work tirelessly on coronavirus vaccines
By Dave Reynolds -Mar 19, 2020 U.S. innovators are rushing to combat the new coronavirus, with vaccines already in development and new treatment options being tested in the United States and Asia. The rapid response received a boost this month as President Trump signed into law $8.3 billion in federal funds to fight COVID-19. The ... Read More»
The United States Embassy in Costa Rica is reducing or cancelling nonimmigrant visa appointments
Beginning March 18, the United States Embassy in Costa Rica is reducing or cancelling nonimmigrant visa appointments with exceptions for emergencies and some H-2 visa applicants. We will resume routine visa services as soon as possible but are unable to provide a specific date at this time. The visa application fee is valid and may ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Donates Building and Armored Vehicles to Costa Rican Police Force
San Jose, February 7th, 2020 The U.S. Embassy’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) donated a K-9 building to Costa Rica’s investigative police, as well as four armored vehicles to the Ministry of Public Security and the Judicial Police. The building will provide a space for judicial officers to receive canine training ... Read More»
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo and Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado at a Press Availability
MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA JANUARY 21, 2020 MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Good afternoon. We would like to welcome to the president’s house in Costa Rica His Excellency the Secretary of State of the United States of America Mr. Pompeo and his delegation. We will also extend our greetings to the president, Mr. Carlos Alvarado Quesada, the ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Visit Reaffirms the Relationship between the United States and Costa Rica
San José- January 21, 2020 With his visit to Costa Rica, U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo reaffirms the strong bilateral relationship between the United States and Costa Rica. During his meeting with Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado, Foreign Minister Manuel Ventura, and Minister for Public Security Michael Soto, Secretary Pompeo discussed U.S.-Costa Rica efforts ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Visit to Germany, Colombia, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Florida
PRESS STATEMENT MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON JANUARY 16, 2020 Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to Germany, Colombia, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Florida January 18-23. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to Berlin on January 19 to attend the jointly hosted German-UN international conference on Libya, as part of the three-point plan UN Special Representative ... Read More»
Principal Deputy Assistance Secretary Julie Chung Visits Costa Rica
Principal Deputy Assistance Secretary (PDAS) Julie Chung visited Costa Rica for the first time to discuss top U.S.-Costa Rican priorities, such as security, trade and foreign policy. During her official three-day visit, PDAS Chung met with Costa Rican government officials and visited several U.S. companies in Costa Rica. “Costa Rica and the United States share ... Read More»
The United States Continues to Support Costa Rica’s Fight against Drug Trafficking by Donating Eight Canines
The U.S. Embassy through its Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) donated eight canines to Costa Rica’s police forces. The official donation took place during the promotion ceremony of the National Police Academy, where U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day highlighted that the curriculum of the Police Academy now includes a course on K-9 ... Read More»
New Plane Reinforces Costa Rica’s Fight against Transnational Crimes
For the first time in history, Costa Rica purchased a Maritime Patrol Aircraft using Air Surveillance Service funds. This aircraft, thanks to the U.S. government, is also equipped with state-of-the-art technology. This King Air 250 is joining the fight against drug trafficking and other illicit transnational activities and will also support humanitarian missions such as ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy San Jose Joins a Worldwide Initiative to Promote Clean Air!
U.S. Embassy San Jose is joining the worldwide initiative AirNow that provides real time data on air quality via the website https://www.airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=airnow.global_summary . The U.S. Embassy has recently installed an air quality device that measures air quality in order to protect our health and contribute to air monitoring efforts by scientists and the Costa Rican government. ... Read More»
Municipalities Have New Motorcycles to Protect Their Communities
The Bureau of International Narcotics Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) donated six Suzuki DR-650 motorcycles to the municipalities of Alajuelita, Mora and Desamparados. Each municipality received two motorcycles that, according to mayors, will support and improve their citizen security programs. Read More»
Central American Firefighters Sharing Operational Knowledge with U.S. Counterparts
August 19, 2019, Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras SOTO CANO AIR BASE, HONDURAS – The Joint Task Force-Bravo’s 612th Air Base Squadron will be hosting a multinational firefighting exercise at Soto Cano Air Base, August 19-23, with the participation of 25 firefighters from Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Costa Rica. The Central America Sharing ... Read More»
Six Talented Costa Ricans Will Study for Two Years in the United States
CRUSA Foundation announced the names of the six Costa Rican students that will study two years at U.S. Community Colleges on a full scholarship. The grantees are: Alison Agüero Sánchez Raquel Angulo Morales Amanda McNeil Huertas Geovanny Romero Jiménez Diego Martínez Gutiérrez Brayner Jirón Arias. Each of the grantees studies at either a professional technical ... Read More»
First National City Planning Meeting
The U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) organized the first national city planning encounter, a space to reflect on the importance of social inclusion and a space to impact people’s lives positively. INL has invested $140,000 in this project and expects to invest half a million dollars more in the upcoming years ... Read More»
Weather Alert — U.S. Embassy San Jose
Weather Alert — U.S. Embassy San Jose August 13, 2019 Location: Costa Rica Event: The United States National Weather Service has identified the potential for heavy rainfall for Panama, Costa Rica and Nicaragua from early Wednesday, August 14, through Friday, August 16. Rain accumulation of 1-3 inches/day with maximum of 4-6 inches/day is forecasted. The highest risk ... Read More»
Mission Accomplished!
The USNS Comfort hospital ship visited Costa Rica from July 21-29 to provide free medical attention in Chacarita and Barranca, Puntarenas. The humanitarian mission of the ship concluded with excellent results: the Comfort staff attended 5,548 patients, performed 138 surgeries aboard and transformed thousands of lives. Over five days of medical attention, the ship specialists ... Read More»
Safety Alert –U.S. Embassy San Jose
Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Event: The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica is aware of the reports regarding recent deaths in Costa Rica associated with the consumption of tainted alcohol. At this time, we are not aware of any U.S. citizen illness or death due to consuming adulterated alcohol in Costa Rica. The deaths have reportedly ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy San Jose Is Now on Instagram
We invite you to follow us on our new Instagram account @USEmbassySJO and learn about all the cool and impactful work we do in Costa Rica. Pura Vida! You can expect to see unique images of the work we do in Costa Rica, the bilateral relationship between our two countries, the different programs we develop ... Read More»
Comfort hospital ship will come to Costa Rica
The hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) will arrive in Puntarenas on Sunday, July 21 to offer free medical care in the country from July 23 to 27 as part of the United States’ support to the region, which suffers from the political crisis in Nicaragua and Venezuela, and related migration challenges. Attention to be ... Read More»
Costa Rica Launches the Academy for Women Entrepreneur
The Academy for Women Entrepreneur (AWE) is an initiative that empowers women around the world and it is available now for 30 women entrepreneur in Costa Rica. Participants in this initiative will receive personalized guidance, visit companies, and have the opportunity to receive non-reimbursement funds to invest and in addition to strengthen their businesses, participants ... Read More»
News Release: USNS Comfort Mission Stops Announced
IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Operations Release No: 19-008 May 23, 2019 MIAMI – The U.S. Navy hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) will return for another deployment to South America, Central America, and the Caribbean mid-June to begin a five-month medical assistance mission as a result of the humanitarian crisis created by the ongoing political and economic ... Read More»
Restorative Justice: An Alternative for Juvenile Offenders
The U.S. Embassy, through the office of International Narcotics and Law, donated $650,000 to the National Center of State Courts in order to expand resources available for juvenile offenders and victims of juvenile offenders going through restorative justice proceedings. The donation will also go towards providing restorative justice training to justice sector officials, as well ... Read More»
Four Helicopters Donated by the U.S. Government Are Now Operational
Four helicopters arrived in Costa Rica nearly a month ago as part of a two-year program between Costa Rica and the U.S. Embassy. The Costa Rican government will use these aircrafts to enhance their fight against illegal drug trafficking and increase the country’s capability to attend to crisis related to natural disasters. During this two-year ... Read More»
Interceptors Enhance Security in Costa Rica
The Bureau for Antinarcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) donated the two 38’ interceptors, equipped with state of the art technology to the Costa Rican National Coast Guard Service. The two vessels are valued at USD 750,000 each. With this donation, the Costa Rican National Coast Guard Service will have an increased capacity to survey ... Read More»
Play Like a Girl
The U.S. Embassy is aware of the importance of sports to generate a real and longstanding change in lives of those practicing them. In order to support young Costa Ricans to work as a tem, solve conflicts and develop their communication skills, we developed the program Play like a Girl with which we reached more ... Read More»
Four Helicopters Arrived in the Country to Be at the Service of Costa Rica
Four UH-IST helicopters arrived in the country aboard a Globemaster C-17. These aircrafts are part of the Aviation Program that the United States has with Costa Rica. Once the two-year program has ended, the aircrafts will be transferred permanently, after two years, to the Air Surveillance Service (SVA) of the Ministry of Public Security. The ... Read More»
The Access Program Bears Fruit
Seventy students had or will have the opportunity to learn English thanks to the English Access Microscholarship program sponsored by the U.S. Embassy. After a two-year intensive English program, 40 students will finally graduate with an advanced intermediate level of English proficiency. As the forty students say goodbye to the Access program, we welcome 30 ... Read More»
Happy Anniversary, American Corner!
The U.S. Embassy American Corner in Limon is celebrating its 12th anniversary. This American Space offers free information about the United States through books, magazines, CDs, free access to Internet, and cultural programs. Ambassador Sharon Day highlighted in her speech the importance of the programs realized at the American Corner, programs that have benefitted the ... Read More»
Five Exceptional Costa Rican Students to Study in the United States
In 2012, the U.S. Embassy created a special scholarship program for students at Costa Rica’s Scientific High Schools. The Embassy created this program to give exceptional Costa Rican students an opportunity to develop their English skills while learning more about U.S. culture. This year, 5 students received the scholarship, which means they will have the ... Read More»
Back to Normal Business!
Embassy San Jose reports the situation has been resolved and normal operations have resumed. Those clients with routine and prescheduled appointments may present themselves for services as planned. Anyone who needs to reschedule an appointment from this morning, or U.S. citizens with unscheduled emergencies in need of Consular services, may contact the Embassy via 2519-2000 ... Read More»
For your security, for our security
Embassy San Jose has received credible information regarding an evolving security situation in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy in Pavas, specifically at the Plaza del Oeste shopping center across the street from the main Embassy entrance. Embassy San Jose directs all individuals with routine and prescheduled appointments today to reschedule. Those U.S. citizens with ... Read More»
The New Youth Ambassadors Are from Perez Zeledon
Nine young students from Perez Zeledon are participating in the Department of State Youth Ambassadors exchange program. These students participate in workshops, community service activities, team-building exercises, and meetings with community leaders in Iowa and Chicago. Once students return to Costa Rica, they have the opportunity to apply what they have learned during the exchange ... Read More»
Inspiring Students
It has been two years since the U.S. Embassy and Costa Rica inaugurated the TeachHer Initiative, which aims to provide high school girls better education opportunities related to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). The U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day, and Minister of Public Education Edgar Mora joined parents, professors and classmates to hear from ... Read More»
Human Rights Day
Statement by Secretary Pompeo December 10, 2018 Human Rights Day Seventy years ago, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Emerging from a world war that shocked humanity with its cruelty, the sovereign nations of the world united to specify those rights that are inherent to all persons, and committed to ... Read More»
International Anticorruption Day
Statement by Secretary Pompeo December 7, 2018 Corruption facilitates transnational crime, fuels terrorism, obstructs economic growth and development, weakens the rule of law, and undermines democracy. Ultimately, it endangers our national security. That is why, as we look ahead to International Anticorruption Day on December 9, we pledge to continue working with our partners to prevent ... Read More»
Medical Attention Arrived to Punta Burica
Punta Burica, Costa Rica Over four days, professionals from the United States and Costa Rica provided free medical attention to 684 residents of Punta Burica as part of a humanitarian mission. These professionals reached the remote area of Punta Burica aboard U.S. helicopters. They examined patients, provided first aid, dentist services, and preventive health education. U.S. Ambassador ... Read More»
Preschool Students Show Off Their English Proficiency
Heredia, November 27th, 2018 Through artistic and cultural presentations, more than 100 preschool students from 17 educational centers in Heredia participated in an English Festival and demonstrated at such a young age their love for learning English. U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day congratulated the 5 and 6 year-old children and reminded them the importance of practicing ... Read More»
Balistics Lab Accredited
The international accreditation of the ballistics unit Judicial Branch’s Forensics Science Labs of with the ISO 17020 norm and the re-accreditation of the biochemical, toxicology and analytic chemistry units with the ISO 17025 norms convert Costa Rica in a regional model. The strengthening of forensic capabilities improves the quality of evidence analysis, which in turn ... Read More»
A Hackathon for Tourist Security
San José, November 18, 2018 Students from CEDES Don Bosco formed the Vico team that won #DestinoSeguro Hackathon competition, an event sponsored by event that the U.S. Embassy, the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), and Ideas en Accion in order to create a tech solution to Costa Rica’s security challenges. Throughout 30 continuous hours, software ... Read More»
U.S. Donation of Soccer Balls Used as Tool to Combat Delinquency
San Jose- November 13, 2018 The U.S. Embassy donated 250 soccer balls to the Ministry of Public Security project La Mejenga and the Saprissa Foundation to encourage team work, goal setting and education. With La Mejenga, the Ministry of Public Security organizes soccer games in high-risk communities, providing participants information on the dangers and risks of drug ... Read More»
Children Center Provides Opportunities to At-Risk Youth
Pavas- November 9, 2018 The Carmen Lyra Chidren’s Center opened its doors in Bribri, Pavas, offering a range of academic and extracurricular activities to elementary and secondary students such as tutorials in Math, Spanish and gardening. The home will also offer select at-risk youth between 2 and 8 years old psychological support. The U.S. Embassy’s ... Read More»
Forty Two New Peace Corps Volunteers in Costa Rica
Forty two new Peace Corps volunteers will work in English Teaching as Foreign Language and Youth Development in Limón, Puntarenas, Alajuela and San José. These volunteers will devote two years of their lives to contribute with Costa Rican growth through their professional experience in linguistic education, psychology, sociology and business administration. Peace Corps has been ... Read More»
Costa Rica Aims to Be a Regional Leader in Judicial Practices
The U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is supporting the Judicial Branch of Costa Rica with a special two-year project to strengthen the anti-corruption efforts; create a new internal ethics code, and tools improve anti-corruption training and investigations. As part of this project, representatives from the Costa Rican Judicial Branch of ... Read More»
Inicia proceso de lotería de visas
A partir de HOY, miércoles 3 de octubre, a las 10:00 a.m., y hasta las 11:00 a.m. del martes 6 de noviembre de este año, está disponible el formulario electrónico para participar en el programa de lotería de visas de diversidad, conocido como lotería de visas, organizado por el Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos. ... Read More»
Food Safety Professionals Receive Training on New U.S. Regulation
San Jose, September 17th, 2018 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) are conducting in Costa Rica the Intensive Workshop for Lead Leaders in the Fresh Agriculture Products Safety Norm, where more than 60 professionals from 13 countries from Latin America and the Caribbean participate. The main objective of ... Read More»
National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2018
The White House / Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 13, 2018 National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2018 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor all American citizens of Hispanic descent and celebrate their rich and vibrant traditions of faith, family, hard work, ... Read More»
We Will Never Forget
San José, September 11th,2018 Today we pay tribute to the more than 3,000 people who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C, on September 11, 2001. We gather to show the world that we will never forget what happened 17 years ago, the day when the entire world ... Read More»
APHIS, at the Service of Costa Rican Agricultural Exporters
What does a company like Del Monte -based in Costa Rica- need to do to sell its pineapples, bananas and other agricultural products to the United States? The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) works jointly with companies in Costa Rica to ensure that their agricultural exports destined for the United States comply with U.S. requirements. ... Read More»
Statement from the Press Secretary on Nicaragua
The United States strongly condemns the ongoing violence in Nicaragua and human rights abuses committed by the Ortega regime in response to protests. After years of fraudulent elections and the regime’s manipulation of Nicaraguan law – as well as the suppression of civil society, opposition parties, and independent media – the Nicaraguan people have taken to ... Read More»
This week in the Peace Corps: Brick to Bread ovens
The Tico Times July 23, 2018 Peace Corps Volunteer Collin traveled from his site in Talamanca, on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast, all the way to the Northern Zone earlier this year to learn more about the functionality of a recently implemented Bricks to Bread oven. He had so many positive things to say about ... Read More»
Costa Rican Talent Travels to the United States
Global Undergraduate Exchange Program Thanks to the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGrad), five students from Costa Rican public universities will study one academic semester at a higher education institution in the United States. They will participate in pre-academic English language training, academic coursework, service learning opportunities, professional development workshops, and cultural enrichment activities; and ... Read More»
This week in the Peace Corps: Celebrating English learning
Peace Corps in Costa Rica Katherine Stanley July 16, 2018 Costa Rican public schools are returning from vacation this week, and many students are still riding high on their successes during June’s educational celebrations. During that month, one of the more active in the Costa Rican academic calendar, Peace Corps Volunteers we see festivals of ... Read More»
Air Advisors conduct first-ever BPC mission in Costa Rica
By Capt. LaDarian Outsey, 571st Mobility Support Advisory Squadron / Published June 19, 2018 JUAN SANTAMARIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Costa Rica (AFNS) — The 571st Mobility Support Advisory Squadron recently conducted their first-ever mission to the Central American country of Costa Rica. The nine member team, executed a three-week building partnership capacity mission with the air vigilance ... Read More»
Welcome Remarks July 4 Celebration
Ambassador Sharon Day Welcome Remarks July 4 Celebration Tuesday, July 3, 6:00 PM President of the Legislative Assembly, Carolina Hidalgo President of the Supreme Court, Carlos Chinchilla Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Epsy Campbell Members of the Diplomatic Corps Representatives of the Government of Costa Rica Ladies and Gentleman Buenas Noches…Bienvenidos todos This ... Read More»
The Excellence of the Youth Ambassadors
Marked by their leadership, academic excellence, and desire to excel, nine distinguished students from San Carlos went to the United States as representatives of Costa Rica through the U.S. Department of State’s Youth Ambassador Program. Each student attends a public high school in San Carlos and participates in the Access English Program, which is an ... Read More»
United States Supports Ambitious Project to Improve Employment Opportunities for Young Costa Ricans
Paniamor Foundation and YouthBuild International have begun an ambitious project to improve employment opportunities for young Costa Ricans by expanding opportunities for work-based training for youth, such as apprenticeships, with a focus on including vulnerable and marginalized youth. This project is funded by a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The project ... Read More»
Commemoration of World Environment Day
New trees decorate the gardens of the U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day’s Residency. In commemoration of World Environment Day, Ambassador Day and representatives from the Costa Rican government and environmental organizations planted a tree, and discussed Costa Rica’s current environmental situation and the efforts of each country do to protect Costa Rican and the world’s biodiversity. ... Read More»
New Peace Corps Volunteers to Begin Their Service in Costa Rica
A group of 17 new Peace Corps volunteers will begin their service in Costa Rica where they will work with communities in Limón, Puntarenas, Alajuela, and San Jose to develop economic opportunities. The group of volunteers, with their varied academic background, will work for two years in the Community Economic Development program, which aims to ... Read More»
Much Needed Digital Communication Tools
The U.S. Embassy, in partnership with the Universidad Latina, the Costa Rica Journalists’ Guild and the Freedom of Press and Expression Institute (IPLEX) organized a special program for journalist and journalism students on digital tools for journalists. Expert Sandra Crucianelli was the keynote speaker and shared with the audience a number of useful digital tools ... Read More»
Renewed Multi-Purpose Track
Dulce Nombre de Cartago, 16 de mayo de 2018 The U.S. Embassy and the Municipality of Cartago joined efforts to improve the Dulce Nombre multi-purpose track and provide a safe place where community members can practice sports, and enjoy healthy lifestyles. By means of the Bureau of International Antinarcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), the ... Read More»
The United States Donates a Third Cutter
Caldera, Puntarenas – April 26th, 2018 As part of the security cooperation with Costa Rica, the United States donated a third Libertador 110 foot cutter. Thanks to this third vessel, Costa Rica is now better prepared to safeguard its territory from narcotrafficking, trafficking in persons, illegal fishing and other illicit activities. It also will be ... Read More»
They arrived!
Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica After months of training, the crew of the two 110 feet Libertador ships donated by the United States arrived in Caldera in command of the vessels. The 44 officers of the Costa Rican National Coast Guard Service were trained how to operate and maintain the vessels. U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day stated that “even ... Read More»
Four Helicopters for Air Surveillance
The United States and Costa Rica formalized the donation of four UH-1ST helicopters to the Costa Rican Air Surveillance Agency (SVA) of the Ministry of Public Security. With these helicopters, Costa Rican increases its capability to provide aerial support during maritime operations, as well as to provide direct support to the National Coast Guard Service ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Sharon Day – Island Class Cutter Commissioning Ceremony
Caldera, Puntarenas – Thursday, April 26, 2018 Remarks by Ambassador Sharon Day Island Class Cutter Commissioning Ceremony Thursday, April 26 | 11:00 AM Buenos días a todos: President Solis, Colonel Arias, Colonel Madrigal, Admiral Michel, Deputy Assistant Secretary Glenn, distinguished guests and — most importantly – The commanding officers and crew of the Libertador Class Cutters. ... Read More»
The United States Will Collaborate with MEP for Four More Years
English teaching and learning The U.S. Embassy signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), committing to work together for four more years in order to strengthen the teaching of English in public schools. The memorandum of understanding includes support for English language development for students, professors and MEP staff with ... Read More»
To Costa Rica
The Costa Rican Coast Guard crew sail for Costa Rica on April 3 aboard the two Libertador vessels that were donated to the Costa Rican government by the United States. The crew having been trained by their U.S. counterparts are now in command of these vessels. Costa Rican Coast Guard officers were in the U.S. ... Read More»
More Youth Ambassadors Travel to the United States
Deily Alpízar, Melanie Morales, Isaac Oviedo and mentor Brian Paz will travel to the United States in the upcoming weeks to represent Costa Rica in the Youth Ambassadors Program, a unique experience of youth diplomacy that will give to Latin American students and mentors the opportunity to learn about U.S. culture, society and education. The three students from ... Read More»
On Costa Rica’s Presidential Election
Press Release Monday, April 2, 2018 The United States congratulates Carlos Alvarado Quesada on his election as the next President of Costa Rica in free, fair, and peaceful voting that continues to be a model for the region. Our long and enduring partnership with Costa Rica is rooted in a shared history of support for human rights, democracy, ... Read More»
Fraud Alert
There have been recent cases of fraud related to the visa fee payment system in which visa applicants found their visa fee receipts were already used and therefore invalid for booking a visa appointment. The Embassy is investigating, and reminds applicants to protect their fee receipt carefully and not share it with anyone. There is ... Read More»
Regional Conference Gathers Experts in Forensic Science
First Central America Regional Forensic Conference Why does the quality of forensic science matter for the criminal justice? What is the value of having an accredited forensics lab? Why is a DNA database useful? These questions among others were addressed at the first Central America Regional Forensic Conference that took place in Costa Rica with ... Read More»
Desamparados better prepared to face emergencies
The U.S. Embassy donated disaster relief materials – including mobile hospitals, blankets, stretchers, sleeping bags, and tents — to the Municipality of Desamparados to support improved preparedness in case of natural disasters. The donation is valued at more than $85,000. Read More»
An Inspiring Camp
TeachHer Seventeen students from the TeachHer Initiative participated in a special science camp encouraging the study of science, technology, engineering, arts/design and mathematics (STEAM careers). This science camp took students to Ad Astra Rocket Lab and the Science Corner – the U.S. Embassy space at EARTH University in Liberia- where they learned about the development, ... Read More»
Prairie View A&M University and Costa Rica University
U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Regional Agricultural Counselor Anita Katial welcomes Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), Texas Students and Faculty to Costa Rica on Sunday, March 11. Anita Katial provided students with an overview of Costa Rican Agricultural and how USDA works with host nations around the world to further bilateral trade relationships, agricultural capacity building, ... Read More»
Six Costa Ricans Will Study One Year in the United States
2018 AFS-CRUSA Scholarships Emerson González, Geovanny García, Daniela Lai, Ximena Quesada, Amanda Valdez and Diana Mejías will travel in August to study one academic year at a high school in the United States. The six students from the Science High School System were awarded with the AFS-CRUSA scholarship that CRUSA Foundation and AFS Costa Rica, ... Read More»
The American Corner Celebrates Its 11th Anniversary
11 years ago, the American Corner opened its doors to the public. Located in the Limon Public Library, residents have access to free information about the United States through books, compact discs, complimentary access to Internet and cultural events. More than 110,000 people have taken advantage of the didactic resources available in the American Corner, ... Read More»
An Agreement between the United States and Costa Rica Will Allow the Evaluation of Its Underground Waters
The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) and the U.S. Geological Service signed an agreement to evaluate Costa Rican aquifers that will provide Costa Rica with clearer information related to its underground water sources. The agreement entitled “Mapping of the Ground Water Hydric Resource in Costa Rica” will be developed in 14 months and will ... Read More»
Costa Rican Coast Guard Officers in Training in Baltimore
The 44 person Costa Rican Coast Guard crew that has assumed command of two 110 feet cutters donated by the United States are receiving special training from their U.S. counterparts at the U.S. Coast Guard shipyard in Baltimore. The training that begin in January and will end in April will prepare the crew to command, ... Read More»
All-terrain Vehicle reinforces Surveillance of Costa Rican Borders
The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) donated an all-terrain vehicle to the Costa Rican Border Police for the transportation of materials and supplies. The vehicle, valued in $122,500, supports the surveillance work the Border Police performs while surveying hundreds of kilometers in the borders with Nicaragua and Panama with their 400 ... Read More»
Armored Vehicles Reinforce Costa Rica’s Security
San Jose, January 25th, 2018 The United States donated three armored vehicles to the Government of Costa Rica to strengthen security throughout the country. One vehicle is destined for Fuerza Publica, another for the Special Intervention Unit (UEI), and the third for the Judicial Police (OIJ). The three four-wheel drive vehicles were equipped in the ... Read More»
Costa Rican Coast Guards in Baltimore
Baltimore The members of the two crews that will be in charge of the two 1110 feet cutters that the United States donated and already transferred to the Costa Rican National Coast Guard Service already arrived to Baltimore. The 44 Coast Guard officers are in the Baltimore U.S. Coast Guard shipyard for a three-month training ... Read More»
They Did it!
Perez Zeledon, January 20th, 2018 For two years, 80 students from 12 Perez Zeledon high schools devoted many hours to learning English through the Access English Microscholarship, a U.S. Embassy-sponsored program implemented by the Universidad Nacional. After much hard work, these bright students can now speak and understand English at an intermediate-advanced level. With this ... Read More»
Costa Rica Will Have Its First Female Helicopter Pilot
Yuriana Arnesto will be Costa Rica’s first female helicopter pilot. She is currently participating in the basic course for pilots at the Colombian Armed Forces School of Helicopters, thanks to U.S. Embassy sponsorship and the support of a U.S. Southern Command special program. The course lasts eight months. By March, 2018, Yuriana will return to ... Read More»
Students from San Carlos will represent Costa Rica in the Youth Ambassadors program!
Youth Ambassadors Program A total of nine high school students and one English teacher will represent Costa Rica this year in the Youth Ambassadors program. The first group of six students will travel in January during three weeks to the United States, and will visit Washington D.C.; Marquette, Michigan and San Antonio, Texas. A second ... Read More»
To Study Two Years in the United States!
Community College Scholarship Program José Rodolfo Gámez, Génnesis González, Brandon Navarro, Brandon González, Natalie Ulate, Duvan José Ramírez and Jefferson Phillips, graduates from technical high schools, will study Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers at community colleges in Orlando, Florida; Reno, Nevada; Appleton, Wisconsin; and Seattle, Washington for two years. The Community College Scholarship ... Read More»
We celebrate education!
EARTH University – Graduation 2017 Guacimo, Costa Rica – December 8th, 2017 U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day participated in the graduation of 106 students from EARTH University, a university that has been key in producing future leaders in solving some of the most urgent social and environmental challenges of the world. Since the foundation of the university in 1986, EARTH ... Read More»
More Costa Rican Students Speak English
ACCESS 2017 San Jose, December 7th, 2017 U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day celebrated the graduation of 121 students from the English Access Microscholarship and CARSI English programs that the U.S. government sponsors and the Binational Center imparts in Costa Rica. After two years of efforts and dedication, these students graduated with an intermediate advanced English proficiency which allows them to ... Read More»
Fostering Costa Rican Entrepreneurs
10 Costa Rican young entrepreneurs participated in the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative for five weeks in the United States to foster innovation, trade and investment in the region. U.S. Ambassador Sharon Day met with this group of entrepreneurs to know more about their experiences in the United States and about their companies in ... Read More»
After One Year, TeachHer Yields Results
TeachHer San Jose, November 30th, 2017 The TeachHer program was created to encourage adolescent girls to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Design, and Math (STEAM) careers one year ago in Costa Rica. U.S. Ambassador Sharon Da y celebrated 12 months of trainings, workshops and community service projects with approximately 250 students; Costa Rican First Lady Mercedes Penas; Ministry ... Read More»
Girasoles (Sunflower) Project Encourages Young Women to Reach Their Professional Goals
Michelle Moya Rodriguez has a gift that she is now formally developing thanks to Girasoles, a project that the U.S. Embassy supports in Santa Cruz, Guanacaste and in Garabito, Puntarenas. “At Girasoles, for the first time, I received a drawing course. Ever since I was a little girl, I have always liked to draw. Only ... Read More»
Red Ribbon Week Unites Tamarindo against Drugs
More than 1200 students from elementary and secondary schools commit to say NO to drugs. During the 11th Red Ribbon Week in Costa Rica, children and young students from Tamarindo, Guanacaste, learned about the harmful effects of drugs, tobacco and alcohol; how to analyze risks and consequences of their decisions and how to resist group ... Read More»
Costa Rican Forensics Labs Are Accredited with U.S. Support
Costa Rican Forensics Labs are now internationally accredited thanks to support from the U.S. Embassy’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). Now the labs fulfill the ISO 17020 and 17025 specifications for forensics topics in toxicology, chemical analysis and biochemistry, which represent 60 percent of the tasks that the forensics labs in ... Read More»
Ambassador Sharon Day meets with U.S. Fulbright grantees in Costa Rica
The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. During the celebration of the 71st anniversary of the program, organized by the Costa Rican Fulbright Alumni Association, Ambassador Day had the ... Read More»
Attention Participants in Diversity Visa Lottery 2019
Due to technical issues with the website www.dvlottery.state.gov all enrollments made prior to October 18th, 2017 will need to be resubmitted. Therefore, if you registered for the Diversity Visa Lottery before October 18th, 2017, you may submit a new entry through www.dvlottery.state.gov without fear of disqualification for submitting more than one entry. The current registration period for ... Read More»
Ambassador Day in Costa Rica
Sharon Day presents her credentials to President Solís The new U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica Sharon Day presented her credentials to President Solis today and now begins her official duties as the highest ranking representative of the U.S. Government in Costa Rica. In her meeting with President Solis, Ambassador Day reiterated the United States’ commitment ... Read More»
Costa Rica’s National Day
Friday, September 15, 2017 STATEMENT BY SECRETARY TILLERSON On behalf of the Government of the United States, we congratulate the people of Costa Rica on the196th anniversary of your independence on September 15th. The strength and depth of our countries´ relationship is evident not only in our joint efforts to promote regional prosperity and security, ... Read More»
Working with the People of Limon
The U.S. Embassy most recently visited Limon where it donated $12,000 worth of tech equipment, participated in the “Dia del Negro” Parade, and met with emerging and established entrepreneurs. Chargé d’Affaires Robin Matthewman reiterated U.S. Embassy support to young students of Limon with a special donation of technological and robotics equipment, a donation that will ... Read More»
We Will Never Forget!
San Jose, September 11th, 2017 DCM Robin Matthewman presided over a U.S. Embassy ceremony honoring the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks with a minute of silence. Both U.S. and Costa Rican citizens participated in the emotional service. Each remembered like it was yesterday what happened 16 years ago, a day that transformed each of their lives. We will never forget! Read More»
Tropical Forest Conservation Act Debt-for- Nature Swap 10 th Anniversary Event
San José- September 11th, 2017 Park Inn Hotel English version Mr. Edgar Gutiérrez, Minister of Environment and Energy Mrs. Lesbia Sevilla, President of the Oversight Committee for the First Debt-for-nature Swap Mrs. Zdenka Piskulich, Director of Costa Rica Por Siempre Friends Good afternoon. It is my great honor to join you on this important occasion, to ... Read More»
Ten Costa Rican Entrepreneurs Will Participate in the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative
Ten very talented Costa Rican entrepreneurs will participate in the State Department-sponsored Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI). Among the group, there is a beer maker, a bathing suit producer, and a coffee shop owners, all true reflections of Costa Rica’s entrepreneurial spirit. The YLAI program will take 10 Costa Rican entrepreneurs for five ... Read More»
The U.S. Government Wants to Implement Program to Reduce Inspections
Costa Rica is among the countries that could be part of a new program the U.S. government wants to implement to reduce inspection times for Costa Rican exports at the different U.S. ports of entry. The Offshore Cuttings Pilot Certification is in its initial phases at four Central American country – Costa Rica, Guatemala, El ... Read More»
Community College STEM Scholarship Program
In July, U.S. Embassy San Jose, Minister of Education Sonia Marta Mora, CRUSA President David Gutierrez and Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE) President Luis Gamboa announced a new scholarship program to send promising Costa Rican students from Costa Rica’s public vocational high schools and public schools with International Baccalaureate programs to study STEAM fields ... Read More»
APEX wins the hearts of Costa Ricans with their music
During a busy July 2-8 visit, pop fusion trio APEX toured Costa Rica through the Department of State’s Arts Envoy Program and reached over 1,000 Costa Ricans through performances and workshops, as well as tens of thousands via the Embassy’s Facebook Live broadcasts and over 50,000 listeners at the leading English radio station, Radio Dos. The opera-trained duo of ... Read More»
Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation 2017 was awarded to Costa Rica to preserve the World Heritage Pre-Columbian Site Finca 6
The United States Embassy will donate approximately $ 39,000 (or 22,000,000 colones) to preserve the archaeological site, Finca 6, a World Heritage site consisting of the stone spheres of the Diquís delta in the south of the country, connecting the country to its pre-columbian past. Specifically, the funds will be used by the local conservation ... Read More»
SOLICITATIONS
Welcome to the Procurement Section at the General Services Office On this page you will be able to find information about solicitations issued by U.S. Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica for the acquisition of commodities and/or services.If you or the company you represent would like to participate in the solicitations, or would only like ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Nikki R. Haley on World Refugee Day
UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS Office of Press and Public Diplomacy FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 20, 2017 Statement by Ambassador Nikki R. Haley on World Refugee Day “As a wife and mother, it is hard to imagine the kind of terror that leads to families leaving their homes for the unknown. The Syrian ... Read More»
Check out Our New Site!
Yes, we have a brand new website! Have a look around! The new-look website has seven sections representing broad topics that may be of interest to you. The sections are broken down further into sub-categories to assist you in finding specific information. The Seven Sections are: Visas – For all your Visa needs and questions. U.S. Citizen Services – ... Read More»
Vice President Pence Praises Costa Rica’s Role as Key Partner
Washington D.C. – March 17, 2017 U.S. Vice President Michael Pence met with Costa Rican President Luis Guillermo Solis at the White House on March 17, 2017. The Vice President praised Costa Rica’s role as key partner of the United States in promoting regional economic prosperity, security, and good governance throughout the hemisphere. The two ... Read More»
During Red Ribbon Week 1300 Students from Guanacaste Say NO to Drugs
Carrillo, Guanacaste – November 17, 2016 Every year, Costa Rica celebrates Red Ribbon Week when DEA’s Special Agent Enrique Kiki Camarena, is honored. Mexican drug traffickers murdered Kiki in the 80s, while he was fighting against drug trafficking in the region. This year, 1300 students from 19 schools and high schools from Carrillo, Guanacaste, participated ... Read More»
Kiki’s Playground
Carrillo, Guanacaste – November 17, 2016 The first playground for children called after DEA’s Special Agent, Enrique Kiki Camarena, was inaugurated during the commemoration of Red Ribbon Week in Carrillo, Guanacaste. Thanks to a donation by the U.S. government and the Municipality of Carillo, the Segovia neighborhood now houses a playground with a basketball and ... Read More»
Kerry, Costa Rican Foreign Minister Before Meeting
Washington, D.C. -February 20, 2015 REMARKS WITH COSTA RICAN MINISTER MANUEL GONZALEZ John Kerry Secretary of State SECRETARY KERRY: Good afternoon, folks. I’m really happy to welcome to Washington the foreign minister of Costa Rica, Gonzalez Sanz, who is a good partner with the United States. Costa Rica has been doing a great deal on ... Read More»
The U.S. Donates Canines and Vehicles to Costa Rican Penitentiary Police
The U.S. Embassy donated 19 canines and four vehicles to the Costa Rican Penitentiary Police as part of the strengthening of this police corps as part of our bilateral assistance program. The donated dogs are Golden Retrievers, Belgium Mallinois and German Shepherds, trained in the Colombian School for dogs of the National Colombian Police. The ... Read More»
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