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What are the requirements to travel to Nicaragua from the USA?
These are the requirements to travel to Nicaragua from the USA. Do you need a visa or just a passport? Here is everything you need to know.
Hey there, world traveler! If you’ve made it this far, it’s because you’re looking to learn about the requirements to travel to Nicaragua from the USA. Smart move, because even a small mistake could lead Nicaraguan immigration authorities to deny entry or exit to U.S. citizens or dual nationals, with no chance of getting your travel expenses refunded.
The regulations and requirements are strict and leave little room for error, so make sure to read this Holafly post carefully. We’ll walk you through everything you need step by step, along with some travel tips for this destination that you’ll definitely appreciate.
Advice before traveling to Nicaragua
Before diving into this helpful guide on the requirements to travel to Nicaragua from the USA, here’s an important tip: make sure you plan your connection before you set off on your trip.
This is an essential factor for any traveler, but even more so for this destination. Because of the strict immigration and political controls visitors face in the country, staying in constant touch with your family, colleagues, and friends from the moment you arrive in Nicaragua is absolutely necessary.
If you’re traveling for an extended period, one of Holafly’s monthly plans could be a great option. You can choose from 25 GB, or even unlimited data with hotspot sharing, all with coverage in more than 170 countries around the world.
If you’re only staying a few days in the Central American country, another great option is Holafly’s eSIM for Nicaragua. It gives you unlimited data with no roaming charges for as many days as you need.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
1. U.S. passport
The first and most important document among the requirements to travel to Nicaragua from the USA is your passport. It must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and have at least one blank page for each entry and exit stamp. The entry and exit fees for tourists or visitors are $10 each, payable in exact change, and the stay is valid for 90 days. If you need to extend your visit, you’ll have to apply for a 30-day extension before your initial period expires and pay a $25 immigration fee.
If you are a U.S. and Nicaraguan citizen or have more than one nationality, you must enter Nicaragua with all your passports.
2. Entry visas to Nicaragua
For tourism purposes, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Nicaragua for up to 90 days. However, students, professionals, and business travelers need a resident visa or a ‘Category C’ visa, which generally requires the following:
- Valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration.
- Visa application letter.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Proof of financial solvency or maintenance.
- For business owners or investors: A copy of the certificate establishing the legal entity requesting entry into the country, the legal representative’s power of attorney, and the business’s tax registration number (RUC) from the municipality where it operates.
3. Round-trip ticket and financial funds
If you are a tourist traveling to Nicaragua, keep in mind that another mandatory requirement to travel to Nicaragua from the USA is to show a return ticket to your home country or onward ticket to another destination within the allowed period. You must also prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, either through credit cards or bank statements. If you are carrying more than $10,000 in cash, you must declare it to customs upon arrival.
4. Entry form for visitors of other nationalities
This procedure applies to foreigners entering Nicaragua through any border crossing. Registration and application should be completed well in advance to allow for processing and to ensure that border authorities are notified of your approved entry in a smooth and organized manner.
How to submit the form?
- Go to the website of the Nicaraguan Directorate General of Migration and Foreigners.
- In the ‘Procedures’ tab, select the ‘Border’ icon, then choose the ‘Advance Information Form for the organized, smooth, and secure entry and exit of visitors from other nationalities into Nicaragua.’
- Download the form in Spanish or English.
- Fill in your details and attach the required documents, depending on your case.
- Send the form to solicitudes@mint.gob.ni and wait for confirmation.
5. Pass through immigration control
The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua warns on its official website about potential delays or denial of entry for Americans by Nicaraguan immigration authorities, either for failing to meet mandatory requirements or even due to suspicions of political opposition or conspiracy. Keep in mind that even if your entry request or visa has been previously approved, the Immigration Department can revoke it without prior notice. If your trip is canceled or entry into the country is denied, you will not be entitled to a refund.
Nicaragua has an authoritarian political system. Being aware of the current situation, keeping a low profile, and handling your documents and interactions with officials carefully can make entering the country much easier. Showing hostility or refusing to cooperate, however, can lead to arrest or legal trouble, sometimes even unfairly.
Other tips for traveling to Nicaragua
The mandatory requirements to travel to Nicaragua from the USA are few, but even so, there is no guarantee of entry, according to the U.S. Embassy. Beyond the basic requirements, there are additional precautions you should take before and during your trip. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Proof of accommodation
No official source says you need to show proof of hotel booking or accommodation upon arrival at the airport. However, the entry form you submit by email asks for travel details, including an address in Nicaragua, and authorities are likely to want to verify this information. Do not be caught off guard and bring a copy of your reservation or an invitation letter.
2. Forbidden items
Avoid packing items such as binoculars, drones, photography or video equipment, or weapons, ammunition, handcuffs, or explosives in your luggage. Customs will confiscate them immediately, and there is no guarantee you will get them back. Electronic devices like laptops and phones may also be inspected, including the information stored on them.
If any of the items mentioned above are found, or if your phone contains content critical of the government, you could face fines, deportation, or even imprisonment. If you plan to use this equipment for observing or documenting flora and fauna, you must obtain prior permission from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARENA).
3. Vaccinations
The U.S. Embassy recommends staying up to date on all vaccines, such as Hepatitis A and B and tetanus, though proof of vaccination is not required. The yellow fever vaccine is only mandatory if you have recently traveled to high-risk countries in Africa or South America.”
4. Health insurance in Nicaragua
This is not technically a requirement to travel to Nicaragua from the USA, but it is highly recommended given the limited medical care and lack of resources in remote areas. In Managua, the capital, there is only one private hospital with high costs and a limited number of specialist doctors. Make sure to get health insurance with international coverage, or a travel insurance policy that covers your stay in Nicaragua and includes repatriation. This will protect you in case of accidents and ensure care for emergencies such as earthquakes, poisoning, or common illnesses like mosquito-borne Zika.
5. Safeguard your documents and belongings
It’s a good idea to carry copies of all your important documents and keep your ID safe, either in a secure spot or with someone you trust while traveling. Try to avoid wearing flashy or expensive items when out and about, as crime is fairly common, including pickpocketing and armed theft, particularly in Managua’s Oriental and Huembes markets and popular tourist spots.
6. Driving in Nicaragua
To drive in Nicaragua, you need a valid U.S. driver’s license and an International Driving Permit. U.S. consular authorities advise against driving at night or during the rainy season to reduce the risk of accidents. Most roads in the country are poorly marked, and in remote or coastal areas, many are unpaved.
7. Register with STEP
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a service that keeps you informed about social unrest, natural disasters, or health emergencies, based on updates from the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua. By enrolling your trip, consular authorities can locate you and contact you directly if needed.
The Embassy can help you:
- Get proper medical care.
- File a police report.
- Contact family or friends in case of arrest or accident.
- Replace a lost or stolen passport.
Frequently asked questions about requirements for traveling to Nicaragua from the USA
Tourists can stay up to 90 days, with the option to extend for an additional fee. Students, professionals, or business travelers applying for temporary residency can remain in the country for the duration of their studies or work contract.
A valid passport and visa if necessary, round-trip ticket, proof of financial solvency, and prior entry registration.
No official source lists this as a mandatory requirement. However, the online entry form asks for travel details and an accommodation address, so authorities may want to verify this information and ask you to provide proof.
It is not technically required, but it is highly recommended due to the limited quality of public healthcare and lack of resources. You are also at risk of accidents from earthquakes, food poisoning, or mosquito-borne viruses.
Do not bring advanced photography or video equipment without prior authorization, avoid storing anti-government content on your mobile devices or laptop, and make sure to carry copies of your identification while keeping the originals safe.
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Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍
