The Embassy of Costa Rica in Bern represents Costa Rican interests in Switzerland and serves as the principal diplomatic mission between the two countries. Established in 1981, the embassy is located on Marktgasse in Bern's historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The embassy maintains comprehensive diplomatic relations and provides consular services to Costa Rican nationals in Switzerland. Costa Rica is often referred to as the "Switzerland of Central America" due to its political stability, neutrality traditions, and relative economic prosperity, making the bilateral relationship between these two countries particularly strong. In addition to the embassy in Bern, Costa Rica operates a Consulate General in Lausanne to serve the francophone regions of Switzerland.
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Visa Services
The embassy processes visa applications for Swiss citizens and residents planning to visit Costa Rica. Swiss nationals enjoy visa-free access to Costa Rica for tourism and business stays up to 90 days, making visas unnecessary for most short-term visits. However, visas may be required for work permits, student visas, temporary residence, or permanent residence applications. The embassy handles all visa categories for third-country nationals residing in Switzerland who require visas to enter Costa Rica. Applicants must submit a completed visa application form, valid passport with at least six months validity, recent passport photographs, proof of sufficient financial means, confirmed travel arrangements, and proof of accommodation. Additional documentation varies by visa type and purpose of travel. Processing times and fees should be confirmed by contacting the embassy at embcr-ch@rree.go.cr. Appointments are recommended for visa applications.
The embassy actively promotes economic and commercial relations between Costa Rica and Switzerland, supporting bilateral trade, investment opportunities, and business partnerships. Switzerland is an important economic partner for Costa Rica, with strong ties in banking, pharmaceuticals, watchmaking, precision instruments, and sustainable development sectors. Costa Rica's economy emphasizes high-value sectors including medical devices, pharmaceuticals, technology services, sustainable agriculture, and ecotourism—areas that align well with Swiss business interests and expertise. The embassy can facilitate business introductions, provide information about investment opportunities in Costa Rica, assist with trade documentation, and connect Swiss companies with Costa Rican trade promotion agencies such as PROCOMER. Costa Rica's political stability, educated workforce, strategic location, and commitment to environmental sustainability make it an attractive partner for Swiss businesses exploring Latin American markets.
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Special Notes
The embassy is located in Bern's historic old town on Marktgasse, easily accessible by public transportation including tram and bus services. Appointments are strongly recommended for all consular and visa services—contact the embassy in advance at embcr-ch@rree.go.cr or +41 31 372 78 87. The embassy maintains close bilateral relations reflecting the strong ties between Costa Rica and Switzerland, often called sister nations due to their shared values of neutrality, democracy, and environmental stewardship. Costa Rica also operates a Consulate General in Lausanne for the francophone regions of Switzerland. The embassy is closed on both Swiss federal holidays and Costa Rican national holidays. For urgent consular assistance outside office hours, Costa Rican nationals should contact the embassy's emergency consular number.