United States Embassy — Local services in Pavas

I have lived in Costa Rica for 13 years and my experiences at the Embassy have always been, "OK". The lines, like any embassy are long and the wait time for service is long too BUT, it would not be so bad if there were actually people working the whole time at the "Windows" or if the information provided was consistent. I have spent more time sitting in front of an empty service counter watching Animal Planet with no volume than I have seen people working and tending to the often dozen or two people in seated and standing. When it comes to paying for services rendered, the attendant is on cue. If the staff is busy attending to lost and missing passports and the paperwork they must complete on their end, why not hire people to do this so you can have the lines go quicker and probably get more work done on a daily basis. Those on the other side of the window have jobs and places to be as well. Minimum wait time for me has been 4 hours. On one occasion I did meet an amazing woman who helped me get a last minute Passport issued without paying the extra fee. She understood that I live in a remote area that can be cut off from the rest of the country during which was then the rainy season, and could not physically get to the embassy to fulfill the requirements of my then expired temporary Visa. It was a very stressful time as I was trying to get to a family wedding and she understood and sympathized with me. This was really the only time I have seen/experienced the "human touch" at this Embassy. So like I say, it's OK. They do their jobs, smile as needed but most recently when I needed emergency services that the Embassy would have provided (I needed a Rabies shot), I did not bother or waste my time...just knowing what awaited me there, I preferred to go anywhere else. The hassle and attitude was just not worth it in a...

Changes in United States Embassy Services

I trust this message finds you well. I would like to express some observations regarding the recent changes in the services provided by the United States Embassy in Costa Rica.

Over the years, I have noticed a significant shift towards online processes, and while I understand the benefits of digitalization, it appears that the move away from traditional, one-on-one interactions has resulted in extended processing times and a reduced level of personal engagement.

The convenience of online services is acknowledged, but the absence of direct, face-to-face interactions has created challenges, particularly in terms of the timeliness and efficiency of certain procedures.

I understand the evolving nature of service delivery and technology integration, but I wanted to bring these concerns to your attention in the hope that there may be opportunities to strike a balance between the advantages of online accessibility and the personalized assistance that was once a hallmark of the embassy's service.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate your commitment to providing the best possible service to...

We were in need of an emergency passport and we were attended to quickly. In 2.5 hours our problem was resolved. I was actually very surprised at how organized they were considering that government offices are usually chaotic.

That being said, I have some advice for people needing to visit: they do take people in without appointments for emergencies there are places that will take pictures for visas or passports right in front of the embassy you cannot bring anything with you outside of keys and your documents (no cellphones, electronics, purses, food or water) you cannot store your belongings at the embassy anymore they will take you out of the line if you arrive too soon, so just stand in line if your appointment is within 10 minutes. Embassy workers are constantly checking people’s appointments and prioritizing them. you cannot wait for your appointment or for others attending an appointment on embassy property, they will tell...