COVID-19 Information

COVID-19 Information Last updated: 09/10/2020 Country-Specific Information: Costa Rica continues to see a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases within its borders.  The Government of Costa Rica has implemented a series of restrictive measures to try and curb the number of new COVID-19 infections.  These restrictive measures vary in intensity depending on each area’s alert designation.  For ... Read More»

By | 10 September, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 27 August, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Press Releases

Economic Impact Payments for U.S. Social Security Recipients

If I live outside the United States and not in a U.S. Territory, how and when will I get my economic impact payment (EIP)? Social Security beneficiaries with a foreign address whose monthly benefit is deposited in a foreign bank will receive their EIP by paper check in the mail, because the IRS does not ... Read More»

By | 16 July, 2020 | Topics: Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 25 June, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 9 June, 2020 | Topics: Events, Featured Event, News, Press Releases, Public Affairs | Tags: , , , , , ,

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»

By | 8 June, 2020 | Topics: Featured Event, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 2 June, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Public Affairs

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»

By | 28 May, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Commercial Affairs, Western Hemisphere | Tags: , , , , ,

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»

By | 27 April, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 6 April, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 23 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert

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»

By | 20 March, 2020 | Topics: Featured Event, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 17 March, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases, Visas

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»

By | 10 February, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , , ,

Registering to Vote and submitting a ballot is fast, easy, and can be done from anywhere in the world!

Start by confirming your voter registration with your state.  Some states require absentee voters to register annually so you may need to re-register.  Go to  FVAP.gov  to connect to your state’s voter portal to register to vote, request a ballot, and more.  Once you confirm your registration, follow a few simple steps to vote in the ... Read More»

By | 27 January, 2020 | Topics: Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 22 January, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases

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»

By | 21 January, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 16 January, 2020 | Topics: Press Releases

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»

By | 14 January, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Press Releases

Travel Advisory- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Travel Advisory – U.S. Embassy San Jose January 13, 2020 Location: Costa Rica Event: Level 2 Travel Advisory: Exercise Increased Caution Country Summary: While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica. The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources ... Read More»

By | 13 January, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 9 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Press Releases, Public Affairs

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»

By | 6 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , , ,

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»

By | 22 October, 2019 | Topics: Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 29 August, 2019 | Topics: Events, Featured Event, Press Releases, Public Affairs | Tags: , , , ,

Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Outreach Event in Dominical – September 25 , 2019

Embassy San Jose is pleased to announce the upcoming Consular event – routine services for U.S. citizens in Dominical. Our Consular staff will be on hand to provide the below services in Dominical at the date and times indicated and to answer questions. To RSVP for passport renewals, notary services, and federal benefits inquiries, please ... Read More»

By | 26 August, 2019 | Topics: Messages for U.S. Citizens | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 21 August, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases

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»

By | 14 August, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 14 August, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 13 August, 2019 | Topics: Alert

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»

By | 31 July, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

Safety Alert –U.S. Embassy San Jose

July 23, 2019 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 ... Read More»

By | 23 July, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases, Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: ,

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»

By | 23 July, 2019 | Topics: Alert

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»

By | 26 June, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 23 May, 2019 | Topics: Events, Featured Event, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 8 May, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 9 April, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 8 April, 2019 | Topics: Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 27 March, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News

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»

By | 12 March, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , , , , ,

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»

By | 5 March, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases, Public Affairs | Tags: ,

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»

By | 27 February, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 12 February, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 30 January, 2019 | Topics: Events, News, Press Releases

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»

By | 30 January, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 10 January, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 14 December, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Events | Tags: ,

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»

By | 10 December, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 10 December, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags:

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»

By | 6 December, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Events | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 27 November, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 26 November, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 18 November, 2018 | Topics: Embassy, Featured Event, Press Releases | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 13 November, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: ,

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»

By | 9 November, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Press Releases | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 24 October, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags:

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»

By | 4 October, 2018 | Topics: Featured Event, News | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 18 September, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 17 September, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags:

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»

By | 30 July, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 18 July, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event, Press Releases | Tags: ,

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»

By | 17 July, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, English Language Learning, Press Releases | Tags:

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»

By | 16 July, 2018 | Topics: Featured Event, Press Releases, Success Stories | Tags:

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»

By | 10 July, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event, News, Speeches | Tags:

Security Alert – U.S. Embassy San Jose – Location:  Nicaragua and its border areas

Location:  Nicaragua and its border areas Event:  Roadblocks are present throughout Nicaragua, including the border crossings with Costa Rica, making overland travel unpredictable; road travel is even more dangerous after dark, when the likelihood of violence at roadblocks, and other crime, increases.  Nicaraguan authorities may deny entry to travelers attempting to cross into Nicaragua via ... Read More»

By | 6 July, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages, Travel & Tourism, U.S. Citizen Services | Tags:

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»

By | 2 July, 2018 | Topics: English Language Learning, Events, Featured Event | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 15 June, 2018 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Events, Featured Event | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 11 June, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Environment, Featured Event | Tags: , ,

Staying Safe This Summer in Costa Rica

Coming to Costa Rica soon? Follow the below tips and exercise caution and good judgment to make your stay a pleasant and safe one. Know Your Environment Costa Rica lies in an active seismic zone; small earthquakes are commonplace and authorities sometime limit access to national parks near active volcanoes for safety. During the rainy ... Read More»

By | 29 May, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages, Travel & Tourism, U.S. Citizen Services | Tags: , , , , , ,

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»

By | 23 May, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event | Tags:

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»

By | 17 May, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases, Public Affairs

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»

By | 16 May, 2018 | Topics: Events, Featured Event, News | Tags:

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»

By | 26 April, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: ,

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»

By | 26 April, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags:

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»

By | 26 April, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags:

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»

By | 26 April, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches | Tags: ,

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»

By | 16 April, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, English Language Learning | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 4 April, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: ,

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»

By | 2 April, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 27 March, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Visas | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 23 March, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 16 March, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 12 March, 2018 | Topics: Agriculture | Tags: , , , ,

Primary Elections Begin This Month

Register and request your absentee ballots for all 2018 elections now at  FVAP.gov This year the entire House of Representatives and a third of the U.S. Senate are up for election. Don’t miss your opportunity to vote in your state’s primary election as it will determine who is on the November 2018 general election ballot. To ... Read More»

By | 12 March, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens | Tags: ,

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»

By | 27 February, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Events | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 22 February, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event, News | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 19 February, 2018 | Topics: Deputy Chief of Mission, Events, News | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 14 February, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 7 February, 2018 | Topics: Featured Event, News | Tags: ,

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»

By | 25 January, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event | Tags:

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»

By | 24 January, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 23 January, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, English Language Learning | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 16 January, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, News | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 10 January, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event, Public Affairs | Tags: , ,

Message for U.S. Citizens: Improvements to Safety and Security Information

On Wednesday, January 10, 2018, the Department of State will make changes to our safety and security information to make it easier to find, understand, and use. Travel Advisories will replace the formally used Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts.  Every country will have a Travel Advisory, which will provide one of four standard levels of advice.  The Travel ... Read More»

By | 3 January, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Travel & Tourism, U.S. Citizen Services | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 18 December, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event, Public Affairs | Tags: , , , ,

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»

By | 12 December, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Events | Tags:

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»

By | 7 December, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, English Language Learning, Events, Public Affairs | Tags:

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»

By | 7 December, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Featured Event | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 30 November, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, English Language Learning, Events, News | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 13 November, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 3 November, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Events | Tags: , , , , , ,

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»

By | 30 October, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News, Public Affairs | Tags: , , , , ,

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»

By | 30 October, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News | Tags: ,

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»

By | 18 October, 2017 | Topics: News | Tags: ,

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»

By | 5 October, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Press Releases | Tags:

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: CDC Travel Notice on Malaria in Costa Rica

The Costa Rican Ministry of Health has reported limited local transmission of malaria in Matina Canton in Limón Province, Sarapiquí Canton in Heredia Province, and Pital District in San Carlos Canton in Alajuela Province.  Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area are infected with malaria and spreading it to people.  Other than a small ... Read More»

By | 26 September, 2017 | Topics: Alert, Security & Emergency Messages, U.S. & Costa Rica | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 15 September, 2017 | Topics: Events, News, Press Releases, Public Affairs | Tags:

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»

By | 12 September, 2017 | Topics: Charge D’Affaires, Events, Public Affairs | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 11 September, 2017 | Topics: Charge D’Affaires, Events | Tags: ,

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»

By | 11 September, 2017 | Topics: Deputy Chief of Mission, Speeches

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»

By | 8 September, 2017 | Topics: Events, Featured Event, Public Affairs | Tags:

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»

By | 11 August, 2017 | Topics: Events, News | Tags: , ,

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»

By | 3 August, 2017 | Topics: News, Public Affairs | Tags: ,

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»

By | 2 August, 2017 | Topics: Art & Culture, Culture, Events | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 1 August, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador's Fund, Events, News | Tags: , , ,

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»

By | 24 March, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News | Tags: , , ,

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Zika Virus Update

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its Zika travel guidance on March 10, 2017, recommending that pregnant women not travel to any area where there is a risk of Zika virus infection.  For a world map of the Zika-affected areas, please visit CDC’s interactive map . For more information about travel guidance for pregnant women , visit the ... Read More»

By | 21 March, 2017 | Topics: Alert, Security & Emergency Messages

English Access Microscholarship Program Sixth Generation

54 students from public high schools were granted with a two-year English Access Microscholarship training that allowed them to study English, leadership, community services, environment and multicultural understanding. This group from the Liceo de Poas de Alajuela and the Colegio Tecnico Profesional de Educacion Comercial y de Servicios (Cotepecos) is the sixth generation graduating with ... Read More»

By | 24 February, 2017 | Topics: Events, News

English Teachers Commit to Improve English Teaching in Costa Rica

More than 300 teachers participated in the National Conference of English Teachers that this year focused on skills to inspire young English students from the 21st century, topic that was selected to support the new English program for Costa Rican public schools. Several workshops were conducted during the conference; including the ones that Joan Kan ... Read More»

By | 7 February, 2017 | Topics: Education, Events, News, Public Affairs | Tags:

Strategic and Economic Support to Rahab Foundation

La Cruz, Guanacaste- February 2, 2017 The International Narcotics and Law Enforcement office gave strategic and economic support to Rahab Foundation and thanks to this support the foundation opened an agency in La Cruz, Guanacaste, where they will take care of cases of trafficking in persons at rural border communities. The total support was for USD ... Read More»

By | 2 February, 2017 | Topics: Charge D’Affaires, Events, News | Tags: ,

U.S. Collaboration strengthens the Costa Rican Ministry of Public Security

Alajuela- January 19th, 2017 #GoodNews The U.S. government gave one million dollars to the Ministry of Public Security for the refurbishment, maintenance and spare parts for a King Air F90 plane. The aircraft was seized to drug traffickers and now and thanks to the refurbishment process, the plane collaborates in the fight against drug trafficking, ... Read More»

By | 19 January, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Events, News | Tags: ,

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»

By | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Events, News | Tags: ,

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»

By | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Events, News | Tags: , ,

Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Outreach in Tamarindo (Guanacaste)

The Consular Section at U.S.  Embassy San Jose is pleased to announce a Consular Outreach event in Tamarindo on October 20, 2016.  Embassy staff will be available to accept adult passport renewals, perform notarial services, and answer your quesions. WHEN: Thursday, October 20, 2016, 9:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m.; Embassy Town Hall at 11:00 a.m. WHERE: ... Read More»

By | 20 October, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Temporary Closure of San Jose-area Airports Due to Turrialba Volcano

The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens in Costa Rica that recent ashfall from Turrialba Volcano has caused a temporary interruption of service to and from Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose (SJO) and Tobías Bolaños Airport in Pavas.  The Embassy advises U.S.-bound travelers to avoid going in person to the airport if they do not ... Read More»

By | 20 September, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Message for U.S. Citizens: Absentee Voting Week is September 26 – October 3

Be an Active Voter by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2016 U.S. elections and participating in Absentee Voting Week! In many states, the voter registration deadline for the November 2016 elections is October 10.  For some voters this might mean their paper voter registration and absentee ballot request must reach their local ... Read More»

By | 20 September, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

LGBTI Trade Summit

San José, September 12, 2016 Vice President Chacón and distinguished guests. Good morning! It is my pleasure to welcome you to this first-ever LGBTI Trade Mission Summit in Costa Rica. Thank you Julio César Calvo for your kind invitation and your vital work since founding Costa Rica’s Diversity Chamber in early 2015, which led us to ... Read More»

By | 12 September, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors

Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Outreach in Puerto Viejo (Limon)

The Consular Section at U.S.  Embassy San Jose is pleased to announce a Consular Outreach event in Puerto Viejo next month.  Embassy staff will be available to accept adult passport renewals, perform notarial services, and answer your questions. WHEN: Thursday, September 1, 1:30-3:00 PM; Embassy Town Hall at 4:30.  WHERE: La Costa de Papito Restaurant ... Read More»

By | 1 September, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Readout of the President and Vice President’s Meeting with President Luis Guillermo Solis of Costa Rica

August 22, 2016 The White House Office of the Vice President For Immediate Release The President attended a meeting today between the Vice President and President Luis Guillermo Solis of Costa Rica at the White House to discuss the overall situation in Central America and new steps to improve security and governance and protect vulnerable ... Read More»

By | 22 August, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases

The U.S. Government Supports Costa Rica’s Security Strategy

August 22, 2016 President Obama and Vice President Biden meet with President Solís at the White House The United States and Costa Rica are longstanding close operational and strategic partners in an impressive range of security cooperation activities. We view our support as part of a holistic partnership with the country and its security forces. ... Read More»

By | 22 August, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases | Tags: ,

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Upcoming Anti-Uber Protest and Taxi Driver Strike

The U.S. Embassy in San José, Costa Rica, informs U.S. citizens of a nationwide taxi driver strike against the Uber service to take place starting at 5:00 AM on Tuesday, August 9, 2016.  Current information suggests more than 13,000 demonstrators will participate across Costa Rica, with at least 7,000 individuals participating in the San Jose ... Read More»

By | 9 August, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Costa Rica Will Protect Refugees

San Jose – July 26, 2016 The Government of Costa Rica has announced that they have agreed to enter into a protection transfer arrangement (PTA) with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to help address this regional migration challenge. Through coordination with UNHCR and IOM, the United ... Read More»

By | 26 July, 2016 | Topics: News | Tags:

Costa Rica Will Protect Refugees

July 26, 2016 The Government of Costa Rica has announced that they have agreed to enter into a protection transfer arrangement (PTA) with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to help address this regional migration challenge. Through coordination with UNHCR and IOM, the United States government will ... Read More»

By | 26 July, 2016 | Topics: Events, News | Tags: , , , ,

Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Outreach in Quepos on Thursday, June 23

The Consular Section at U.S.  Embassy San Jose is pleased to announce a Consular Outreach event in Quepos later this month.  Embassy staff will be available to accept adult passport renewals, perform notarial services, and answer your quesions. WHEN: Thursday, June 23, 10:00-12:00; Embassy Town Hall at 12:30.  WHERE: Marina Pez Vela Meeting Room (Quepos) RSVP: ... Read More»

By | 23 June, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Message for U.S. Citizens: Outreach Event in Perez Zeledon

The Consular Section of U.S. Embassy San José is pleased to announce an upcoming Consular Outreach event in Perez Zeledon.  Embassy staff will be available to accept adult passport renewals and to perform notarial services. WHERE:  Hotel Zima, 200 meters North, 100 meters East of McDonald’s San Isidro, Perez Zeledon (2770-1114) WHEN: Monday, April 25, 2016 – ... Read More»

By | 25 April, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Zika Virus. Feb 19

The U.S. Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica, informs U.S. citizens that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel notice for Costa Rica regarding the Zika virus . There is evidence that Zika is linked to birth defects in the fetuses of infected pregnant women and Guillain-Barré syndrome in infected individuals of any age ... Read More»

By | 19 February, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Zika Virus

The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica informs U.S. citizens that the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is upgrading its advisories regarding the Zika Virus .  For general information about Zika, please visit the CDC website .  To obtain Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) travel notices, call the  CDC  at 1-800- CDC -INFO (1-800-232-4636) from within the United States, or 1-404-639-3534 from ... Read More»

By | 10 February, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Criminal Incident

The Embassy has been notified that on Sunday, November 8th at approximately 9:30 p.m. several apartments in a building housing several expatriates from the United States and Canada were forcibly entered and burglarized by two armed individuals. Two assailants, reportedly wearing dark clothes and masks and armed with pistols, entered the residential compound by way ... Read More»

By | 8 November, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Criminal Incident

The Embassy has been notified that on Sunday, November 8th at approximately 9:30 p.m. several apartments in a building housing several expatriates from the United States and Canada were forcibly entered and burglarized by two armed individuals. Two assailants, reportedly wearing dark clothes and masks and armed with pistols, entered the residential compound by way ... Read More»

By | 8 November, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Revised message regarding increase in violent criminal activity in San Jose area

This message is to alert U.S. citizens residing and traveling in Costa Rica to a small but increasing trend of daytime targeted shootings and other violent criminal acts. While expatriate U.S. citizens were not targeted in the recent shootings, they have previously been the victims of opportunistic crimes. These attacks reflect a rise in the ... Read More»

By | 4 November, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Earthquake Response Simulation

The U.S. Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica, informs U.S. citizens that on Thursday, September 3, the Costa Rican National Emergency Commission and the San Jose Municipal Emergency Committee will stage a citywide earthquake simulation in downtown San Jose.  The simulation is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. and conclude at 11:00 a.m. The simulation ... Read More»

By | 3 September, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages

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»

By | 20 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders | Tags:

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»

By | 10 November, 2014 | Topics: Public Affairs

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