Taking cash / currency out of Costa Rica
Costa Rica requires declaration when leaving with cash and bearer-form negotiable instruments above USD 10,000 equivalent.
Details
Travellers departing from Costa Rica carrying cash, banker's cheques, bearer bonds, or other bearer-form negotiable instruments totalling USD 10,000 equivalent or more must complete the DGA currency declaration at customs before boarding. This threshold aggregates all currencies at exchange-rate parity. Failure to declare is grounds for seizure of the entire cash amount under Ley 8204 plus criminal prosecution for aggravated cases. Source-of-funds documentation may be requested. Legitimate declared movements are not restricted; the requirement is transparency-based to combat money laundering and tax evasion.
Quantity limits
Above USD 10,000 equivalent triggers declaration
Documentation required
- DGA currency declaration
- Source-of-funds evidence if requested (bank statement, sale contract, payroll)
The other direction
Bringing cash / currency into Costa Rica(restricted)