How long do I need to stay in Nicaragua for the border run to count?

Officially there's no minimum, but stay at least 30 minutes and get a timestamped receipt as proof. Some report needing 72 hours, but this isn't consistently enforced.

Can I do multiple border runs to extend my Costa Rica stay?

Yes, but immigration officials may question frequent entries. After 3-4 border runs in a year, you risk being denied re-entry or getting shorter stamps.

What if I don't have proof of onward travel?

Buy a refundable bus ticket online or a cheap flight you can cancel. Some travelers use fake bookings, but this risks denial of entry.

Is the process the same at all border crossings?

Generally yes, but Peñas Blancas is most efficient. Smaller crossings may have different hours or occasionally closed facilities.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Nicaragua?

Only if you're coming from a yellow fever endemic country. Most travelers from Costa Rica don't need it.

How to get a Nicaragua visa for a Costa Rica border run

Most nationalities can enter Nicaragua visa-free for 90 days, making border runs from Costa Rica straightforward. You'll need a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and $1 entry fee. The process takes 30-60 minutes at major crossings like Peñas Blancas.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and most Latin American countries get 90 days visa-free. Chinese, Indian, and some African nationals need a visa in advance from a Nicaraguan consulate.
Prepare your documents. Bring your passport (valid 6+ months), proof of onward travel (bus ticket, flight, or print Costa Rica re-entry), and $1 USD cash for the entry fee. Immigration may ask for proof of funds ($200+ recommended).
Choose your crossing point. Peñas Blancas is the main crossing (open 6am-10pm). Las Tablillas is quieter but has limited hours (8am-4pm). Both crossings are walkable from Costa Rican immigration.
Exit Costa Rica. Pay the $8 USD Costa Rica exit fee at the immigration office. Get your exit stamp. If you overstayed, pay fines before proceeding ($100 per month).
Enter Nicaragua. Walk 200m to Nicaraguan immigration. Fill out the entry form, pay $1 entry fee, and get your 90-day stamp. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes unless there are bus groups.
Complete your border run. Stay in Nicaragua for at least 30 minutes (some report 72 hours required, but 30 minutes is widely accepted). Buy something, get a receipt with timestamp as proof. Then reverse the process to re-enter Costa Rica.

How long do I need to stay in Nicaragua for the border run to count?: Officially there's no minimum, but stay at least 30 minutes and get a timestamped receipt as proof. Some report needing 72 hours, but this isn't consistently enforced.
Can I do multiple border runs to extend my Costa Rica stay?: Yes, but immigration officials may question frequent entries. After 3-4 border runs in a year, you risk being denied re-entry or getting shorter stamps.
What if I don't have proof of onward travel?: Buy a refundable bus ticket online or a cheap flight you can cancel. Some travelers use fake bookings, but this risks denial of entry.
Is the process the same at all border crossings?: Generally yes, but Peñas Blancas is most efficient. Smaller crossings may have different hours or occasionally closed facilities.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Nicaragua?: Only if you're coming from a yellow fever endemic country. Most travelers from Costa Rica don't need it.