Costa Rica citizenship rules for children born abroad

Costa Rican citizens living abroad should be aware of specific immigration requirements when traveling with children born overseas. Because Costa Rica grants citizenship by descent, children of Costa Rican parents are considered citizens even if they hold only a foreign passport.

Immigration authorities cross-check parental details, and if a parent is identified as Costa Rican, the child is treated as a citizen. This can lead to complications at the border if the minor is not registered with the Costa Rican Civil Registry. To prevent being unable to leave the country, parents may need to obtain a formal exit permit, known as a ‘Permiso de Salida’, which requires authorization from both parents or a legal guardian.