Costa Rica Working

Nowhere does money grow on trees (though Let’s Go ’s researchers aren’t done looking), but there are still some pretty good opportunities to earn a living and travel at the same time. As with volunteering, work opportunities tend to fall into two categories. Some travelers want long-term jobs that allow them to integrate into a community, while others seek out short-term jobs to finance the next leg of their travels. Transitions Abroad (www.transitionsabroad.com) also offers updated online listings for work over any time span.

While Costa Rica is generally reluctant to give jobs to traveling foreigners, it’s not impossible to obtain work. Making friends with locals can help expedite work permits or arrange work-for-accommodations swaps.Note that working abroad often requires a special work visa.

More Visa Information. Costa Rica has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Central America. As such, the country is wary of allowing foreign workers to come in and potentially raise that number. Fear not, though, because working in Costa Rica is not impossible. Long-term programs requiring special entry documentation often handle the documentation procedures for participants. The Embassy of Costa Rica (www.costarica-embassy.org) has specific application requirements for temporary (1 year or less) work permits. US citizens can take advantage of the Center for International Business and Travel ( CIBT; ☎800-929-2428; www.cibt.com) and G3 Visas and Passports (☎888-883-8472 or 703-276-8472; www.g3visas.com), which secure visas for travel to almost every country for a fee. Double-check on entrance requirements at the nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date information before departure. US citizens can consult http://sanjose.usembassy.gov. UK citizens can consult www.britishembassycr.com.

Long-Term Work

If you’re planning on spending a substantial amount of time (more than three months) working in Costa Rica, search for a job well in advance. International placement agencies are often the easiest ...more

Short-Term Work

Traveling for long periods of time can be hard on the wallet. Many travelers try their hand at odd jobs for a few weeks at a time to help pay for another month or two of touring around. Short-term work ...more