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Timeline
- January 2018: the Inter-American Court of Human Rights issues an advisory opinion requested by Costa Rica [1].
- August 2018: the Constitutional Chamber rules the marriage ban unconstitutional and gives the Legislative Assembly 18 months to act [1][2].
- May 26, 2020: the ban lapses and same-sex marriage becomes legal [1][2].
For visitors
Recognition of a Costa Rican marriage at home depends on your own country’s law.
Sources (checked October 29, 2026):
- Presidencia de la República de Costa Rica, 25 May 2020: equal civil marriage takes effect on 26 May 2020
- Reuters, 26 May 2020: Costa Rica allows same-sex marriages, a first for Central America
- U.S. Department of State: Costa Rica travel advisory (Local laws: gay and lesbian travelers)
- U.S. Department of State: Gay and lesbian travelers, general guidance
- IGLTA: Costa Rica destination guide