Is a passport required to enter Costa Rica?
by William
(Petal, MS 39465)
Question: As a natural-born U.S. citizen, do I need a passport to visit Costa Rica? Where’s the nearest place in Petal, MS to apply?
Costa Rica Entry Requirements
- Valid U.S. passport
Must remain valid throughout your stay (many airlines and Costa Rica require 6 months beyond your return date). - Round-trip or onward ticket
- Proof of funds (sometimes requested)
Pro Tip: Some carriers enforce the “6-month validity” rule even if Costa Rica doesn’t. Always confirm with your airline first.
Read full Costa Rica entry rules »
Nearest Passport Acceptance Facility in Petal, MS
| Facility | Address | Phone | Hours | Appointment? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petal Post Office | 121 Morris Street, Petal, MS 39465 | (601) 582-3618 | Mon–Fri 9 AM–4 PM | Yes – call ahead |
View all MS acceptance facilities »
Click for reliable expedited passport courier service.
What to bring (First-Time Applicants – DS-11):
- Completed DS-11 Form: Complete online or download PDF form. Do not sign until instructed by the acceptance agent.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (long form) or naturalization certificate, plus a photocopy.
- Valid Photo ID: Current driver’s license or government ID, plus a photocopy.
- One 2×2″ Passport Photo: Plain white/off-white background, taken within 6 months.
- Parental Consent (if under 16): Both parents’ IDs and consent form, or court order.
- Fees:
- Application: $130 (payable to U.S. Dept. of State)
- Acceptance: $35 (payable to the acceptance facility)
- Proof of Travel (if applying for urgent service): Copy of round-trip ticket or itinerary.
Pro Tip: Fill out your DS-11 but leave the signature field blank to save time at the counter.
Processing Times & Fees
| Service Level | Fee | Typical Turnaround |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (by mail) | $0 | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Expedited (by mail) | +$60 | 2 to 3 weeks |
| Urgent (in-person) | +$60 | Same-day* |
*Must show confirmed travel within 14 days. Passports are usually issued the same day but may take longer during peak travel periods or due to issues with submitted documents.
4. Regional Agency: New Orleans Passport Agency
701 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70113
More about New Orleans Passport Agency »
5. Full-Service Expediting (No New Orleans Trip Needed)
If you are unable to travel to the passport agency, you can use the services of a registered passport expediter. You still need to appear in person at a local facility to have your application adjudicated.
Inform the agent that you will be sending the application to a professional aexpediting service. Provide the agent with a signed authorization letter for the expediter to be included in he sealed envelope. Send a signed copy of the authorization letter with teh sealed package to the courier.
- Registered expediter: They are authorized by the passport agency submit applications on behalf of clients.
- In-person drop-off: The courier will hand deliver you application to the agency.
- Peace of mind: Track your shipment and get SMS/email updates.
Click for reliable expedited passport courier service.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What about children’s passports?
- Minors (<16) must apply with DS-11, appear in person with both parents, and provide birth certificate.
- Can I use a passport card for Costa Rica?
- No. Passport cards are valid only for land and sea entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
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More Passport & Travel Information
Getting a Passport Expedited at a Post OfficeRequesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens. Applying at a Regional Passport Agency
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you. Using a Registered Courier Service
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Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation. How to Renew a U.S. Passport Fast
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