The General Directorate of Migration in Costa Rica will stop charging premium rates for its main information hotline starting in January 2026. Officials announced the change this week, stating that calls to the 1311 number will shift to a standard local call rate model. This decision directly addresses long-standing public concerns over the cost of accessing essential government services.
The current fee structure charges callers 390 colones per minute plus tax for inquiries. The migration authority confirmed the change will take effect on January 6, 2026. The move aligns with national regulatory compliance for 900-number services, which impose monthly consumption limits on premium-rate lines.
Official Directive Mandates Service Continuity
In an official communication, the service stated the adjustment ensures the operational continuity of its telephone support system. The General Directorate of Migration (Costa Rica) partners with the state telecom provider, RACSA, to manage the ‘Digital Migration’ hotline. The agency emphasized that the 1311 number will remain active for citizen services under the new pricing.
“We inform users that starting January 6, 2026, the 1311 telephone service will no longer apply the charge of 390 colones per minute plus tax,” the translated notice reads. “It will be governed under the conventional call model according to rates set by national operators.” [Translated from Spanish]
This policy shift follows broader evaluations of how residents access immigration procedures. The change is expected to lower barriers for individuals seeking information on residency, visas, and other formalities.
Alternative Contact Channels Established
While the 1311 line transitions, the migration authority listed its current primary contact channels. The customer relationship center can be reached by dialing 1311, selecting option 2 for ‘Tramite YA!’, and then option 1 for Migration. Its hours run from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Officials also directed the public to use email and an online form for inquiries. The dedicated email address is tramiteya@racsa.go.cr. A digital contact form on the government portal provides another alternative for support. These channels are part of a wider digital modernization effort for Costa Rican immigration services.
The announcement concludes by thanking the public for its trust. This fee elimination represents a tangible step toward more accessible public administration. Residents requiring guidance on processes like the para migración procedures in neighboring countries often seek clarity from such official sources.