Everything You Need To Know About A Nicaragua Visa

nicaragua-visa-images British nationals intending to visit Nicaragua don’t need a visa to enter the nation, provided they are traveling for business or tourism purposes.

They can stay in the country under the visa-exemption policy for a maximum span of up to 3 months.

When you travel to Nicaragua, please ensure that your passport has British Citizen mentioned on it. Additionally, it should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Nicaragua and should contain a minimum of two blank pages.

Most of the time, Nicaraguan authorities may ask you to present an ongoing ticket out of the country. Sometimes, visitors have been denied entry because of the failure to do so. Additionally, you are also advised to carry proof of enough funds to support your stay in Nicaragua. You can present this in the form of cash, credit card, cheques, or bank statements.

Note: Policies on entry frequently change at Nicaraguan borders for foreigners visiting the country. So, before traveling, always ensure that you discuss the requirements in detail with your travel company or the Nicaraguan immigration authorities through their website.

Also remember to check with your connecting flights (if any) about overseas transit requirements. Additionally, crosscheck with your airline if they allow boarding without a visa. Sometimes, policies change without prior notification.

Entry requirements for foreign travelers to Nicaragua

If you are not a legal British citizen, you might need to obtain a visa in advance before visiting Nicaragua. Please contact the Nicaraguan Immigration Authorities to confirm whether you need a visa.

If you do, the following are the required documents to make a visa application:

A photocopy of your passport that is valid for at least 6 months and has a minimum of 2 blank pages
A completely filled and signed visa application form in original
Proof that you hold no criminal or police record in your country of origin
A notarized child support commitment letter in original
A visa application letter, certified by the Diplomatic or Consular Representation in the UK and addressed to the Director or General Director of the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners in Nicaragua
Return ticket to your country of origin
Proof of sufficient funds to sustain your stay in Nicaragua
For applicants visiting the country for business purposes, a copy of the act of incorporation or legal status of the public or private institution that invites the applicant to enter Nicaragua
Additional documents as required for the specific category of visa

Once the visa is approved, you will be allowed to use it within 6 months of issue, after which it shall become invalid.

Note: Nicaragua does not have any authorized representation abroad. Hence, foreigners entering the nation on a visitor’s visa must ensure that the General Directorate of Migration and Foreigners notifies the airline in advance about the authorization to land in the country.

UK Emergency Travel Documents

The government of Nicaragua accepts UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) at points of entry, airside transit and exit from the nation. If you lose your passport and need to use an ETD, please ensure that it is valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Nicaragua.

Travelling with Children

Children (minors), who have a single or dual Nicaraguan nationality might be asked to present specific documents to exit the country with one parent, guardian, or a third party. You should therefore consult with the Nicaraguan migration authorities before planning to leave Nicaragua accompanied by minors.

Travel to Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala

As per the Central America Border Control Agreement, British nationals can enter any of the four C-4 nations -- Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala -- for a period of up to 90 days without going through any border regulations at points of entry and exit.

Do note that this 3-month period starts from the time you land in any of these countries.

If you exceed the 90-day limit, you might be subjected to a hefty fine. However, if you wish to extend your stay, you can apply for an extension, which allows you a stay for up to 30 days, after paying a fee. Remember to lodge this application before the 90-day limit expires.

Additional pointers

Nicaragua has been experiencing political unrest since April 2018. As a result, during your stay here, it is strongly advised to stay away from demonstrations and gatherings.

British nationals can take flights to and from Managua Augusto Sandino Airport. But you should know that the frequency and number of flights have decreased.

Nicaragua does not have a British Embassy. In case you need immediate consular assistance, you need to contact the British Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica. Again, Nicaragua holds risk of Dengue and Zika virus transmission. Hence, remember to take out a comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.