Most language students in Heredia take advantage of the large homestay network available in the heart of the city. Heredia has been hosting foreign students from around the world, of all ages and program types, for decades. Because of the many years of experience, most homestay programs place language students with local Costa Rican families who are thoroughly screened, live in safe neighborhoods, prepare healthy and delicious meals, and most importantly, care deeply about their pivotal role in the cultural immersive experience that is language learning. Heredia is home to many middle-class neighborhoods with comfortable, clean, and well maintained family homes (many multi-generational), making it the ideal city for those who don't want to be just a tourist, but rather become part of a family and the local community.
Living and studying a language in Costa Rica for extended periods of time is not complicated for visitors of most nationalities. Most individuals can stay in Costa Rica for up to three months on a tourist visa, which will be stamped into their passport upon entry into the country. Some language schools in Heredia that offer longer programs may provide assistance in applying for a study visa once in-country. However, this often proves to be a huge hassle; the long-term visa process can be expensive, time consuming, and simply long. An alternative option, for those who wish to attend language courses in Heredia for longer than three months, is to renew the tourist visa as needed by simply leaving the country, which is known locally as a “border run.” An added bonus of this option is the opportunity to visit one of Costa Rica’s bordering countries, such as Panama or Nicaragua, for an even more culturally enriching weekend excursion.
IMPORTANT: Anyone traveling to Costa Rica as a tourist needs to be aware of the requirement for proof of onward travel within three months of entry upon arrival. This can be a return plane ticket, a plane ticket to another country, or a bus ticket.
Of course, entry requirements can vary greatly depending on your country of origin. Anyone wishing to visit Costa Rica as a tourist, student, or volunteer is advised to do their own research on the most recent information regarding the subject of visa/entry requirements.
