Rehab in Costa Rica for Canadians: What to Know Before You Go
Gernot Holtz November 11, 2026 2 min read
Clinically reviewed by Paola Cravioto , Clinical Director and General Director, MA Clinical Psychology
Canadians often start looking abroad when publicly funded residential beds have long waits, or when they want treatment far from work and community. Costa Rica is one of the most practical options: direct flights from Toronto, an English-speaking clinical team and a time zone close to home.
Getting there
There are direct flights from Toronto to San José (SJO). From other Canadian cities you usually connect once, through Toronto or a US hub. A member of our team meets you at the airport, and the transfer is included. Canadians travel on a valid passport and do not need a visa for a typical treatment stay. Travel and arrival details.
Time zone
Costa Rica is on UTC-6 all year. In winter that is the same time as Winnipeg and one hour behind Toronto; in summer it is two hours behind Toronto. Family calls and online family sessions fit easily into the day.
What it costs
CRTC prices are in US dollars: from US$8,950 per 30 days in San José and from US$14,350 at our private Riverside center in Atenas, all-inclusive. Check the current exchange rate when you budget. Full 2026 price breakdown.
Will my provincial plan or insurance pay?
Provincial health plans generally do not pay for private residential treatment abroad. Some provinces have prior-approval programs for out-of-country treatment in specific situations, and approval has to be granted before you travel, so ask your provincial ministry directly (our guide to rehab and OHIP). Some extended health plans and employee assistance programs reimburse part of the cost. CRTC is private pay, and we provide the receipts and treatment documentation insurers usually ask for.
Coming home: aftercare in Canada
Plan aftercare before you leave: a therapist at home, local AA, NA or SMART Recovery meetings, and a plan for the family. Our team contacts clients at 1, 2, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after discharge. How our aftercare works.
Next step
Call our toll-free line from anywhere in Canada or start a free, confidential evaluation. We will tell you honestly whether CRTC is the right fit.
Filed under Costa Rica
Founder
Founder of Costa Rica Treatment Center. Gernot built CRTC in 2016 after living through addiction and recovery himself, to create the place he needed but could never find.
