Costa Rica
Last reviewed: 2026-06
Travelling to Costa Rica with snus or nicotine pouches? Both are unclear in Costa Rica. Cigarettes are legal for adults aged 18+. This page covers the legal status of snus, nicotine pouches, cigarettes, vaping, and heated tobacco in Costa Rica as of 2026-06, with official sources where available.
Snus
UnclearNo snus-specific provision found in Costa Rican law. Smokeless oral tobacco is not explicitly addressed by the tobacco control framework; no specific ban or authorisation found.
Nicotine Pouches
UnclearTobacco-free nicotine pouches are currently treated as permitted but not specifically regulated. As of mid-2026 Costa Rica is reportedly considering banning oral nicotine products, so the status may change.
Cigarettes
LegalMinimum age: 18+
Legal basis: Ley General de Control del Tabaco No. 9028 (2012); Decreto Ejecutivo No. 37185-S
Cigarettes are legal to sell and use, regulated by General Law No. 9028. Sale to under-18s is prohibited, smoking is banned in enclosed public places and workplaces, and pictorial health warnings are required.
Vape / E-cigarettes
RestrictedMinimum age: 18+
Legal basis: Ley No. 10066 (ENDS); Decreto No. 37185-S; Resolución MS-DM-RC-2381-2024
E-cigarettes are legal to sell with age verification (18+), product notification, display/advertising restrictions, and a ban on indoor public use. However, products containing synthetic (artificial) nicotine and cannabinoid liquids are banned under Health Ministry Resolution MS-DM-RC-2381-2024 (2024).
Heated Tobacco (IQOS)
LegalMinimum age: 18+
Legal basis: Ley No. 10066 (regulation of ENDS and heated tobacco devices)
Heated tobacco products are legal to market in Costa Rica and fall within the scope of Law No. 10066 regulating electronic and heated tobacco devices. Use is restricted in enclosed public places.
Personal Import
Sources
- AGGGSTHR — Costa Rica country profileAccessed 2026-06
- AGGTobacco Control Laws — Costa Rica legal summaryAccessed 2026-06
- AGGTobacco Control Laws — Costa Rica, E-Cigarettes Main PoliciesAccessed 2026-06
Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations regarding snus, nicotine pouches, cigarettes, vaping and heated tobacco change frequently. Always verify the current legal status with official government sources before travelling. NicotineAtlas assumes no liability for actions taken based on information presented here.