www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I know the exit tax ($26 I think) can be paid at The Presidente but can it be paid any where else in San Jose excuding the airport?

I always pay mine at the INS BUILDING. There is a bank on the 2nd floor. Go up the escalator, make a right, walk about 10 yards and you're there.

HAVE ORIGINAL PASSPORT WITH YOU.

I think someone's posted in the past, that you can also pay your departure tax at some of the local banks. I'd do a search for you, but what the hell.... you can search for it. I'm too lazy tonite!

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here are some hits from a search using the phrase 'exit AND tax'

"I always use the bank (INS Building) across the street Hotel Castillo.
Its the big gray building, walk in go up the escalator to the right, once upstairs go right and theres a guard by a door go in that door and pick a number"

"Keep US $26 for the airport tax. Buy the tax stamp in the airport or at the Banco Credito just East of the Presidente and around the corner, or at the Presidente if a guest there. The exit tax receipt has a section where you must fill in information which is required before you check in at your airline to depart. In other words, fill out the receipt. "


"for exit tax, I use the TACA center inside Clarion Amon Plaza Hotel. They are only supposed to sell it to their own customers, but you may be able to talk them into selling you one even if you aren't flying with them."


And others are reporting that the service at the airport is quick and painless. better than waiting in line for service at any of the above mentioned places.

Also, have your passport with you when you go to pay at any of the above locations

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(export version only, some restrictions may apply, some assembly required, not valid where the sun don't shine...

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There is virtually no lines at the airport now. There are two counters now, one on the right side as you walk in, and another one on the other side. Most people go to the one on the right as you walk into the terminal, but the line on the left is usually empty.

You can also buy it when you arrive into SJO. Just before you get on the immigration line, there is a small blue counter on the left side. There may/may not be a person at the counter. If there isn't, wait a minute, and somebody will come over and help you. If there is no line at immigration, I always get the tax there, it takes LITERALLY 20-30 seconds versus 10-60 minutes (incl the wait) in any of the other places listed above.

If you go to BCR, bring comfortable standing shoes.

In my other trip report I mentioned that i just get it over with by paying it just after you deplane but in the area just before check in at immigration. It's off on the left and clearly visible. Have someone hold your place in line. It's easy and you get it over with quick. Just remember though, don't lose it or you will have to buy another one.

3P

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