Accredited TEFL Certification for Teaching in Costa Rica

Plan on the proper category instead. Costa Rica's Ministry of Labor states that a migrant who wants authorization to carry out economic activities, whether for an employer or self employed, must request a migratory category through the DGME. Canada's official travel advice notes that tourists may be granted up to 180 days at the immigration officer's discretion, and that staying longer requires residency status from the DGME.

The Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería, the DGME, grants migratory categories, including special categories for situations that need different treatment. Costa Rica's Ministry of Labor also plays a part. It issues recommendations for some temporary worker categories and publishes a list of occupations it does not recommend for the specific occupation worker category and temporary residence, so check it before you apply.

The Costa Rican Embassy in the UK lists items such as an application letter, a criminal record certificate, a passport valid for at least six months, three photographs and the fees, plus a birth certificate for several categories. Translations of birth and criminal record certificates must be apostilled unless an official Costa Rican translator with a digital signature did them. The embassy advises checking the immigration portal first.

Volunteers use the Special Permit Category for Academic and Volunteer Purposes. The Costa Rican Embassy in the UK says applicants request a provisional visa at the consulate, with an acceptance letter from the Costa Rican institution stating the category and authorized period, proof of financial solvency, a birth certificate and a criminal record certificate. A TEFL certificate helps you show a host school that you can plan and teach lessons.

The 180 hour Government Regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma, Ofqual reference 610/1572/6, suits most people heading to Costa Rica. It is a recognized Level 5 qualification that employers can verify on the UK government register. The 120 hour Accredited Online TEFL Course is the starting option, and the 300 hour Level 5 Master TEFL Advanced Diploma, Ofqual reference 6101574X, is the step up for a stronger profile.