Managua Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, serves as the main entry point for international travelers visiting this Central American nation. Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) is the primary gateway, handling most international arrivals. Nicaragua maintains a relatively accessible entry policy for tourists from many countries, with visa-free entry available for numerous nationalities. However, all visitors must pay a tourist card fee upon arrival and should be prepared to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay. The immigration process in Managua is generally straightforward, though wait times can vary depending on flight arrivals and staffing levels. Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date from Nicaragua. Upon arrival, visitors will proceed through immigration control, collect their luggage, and pass through customs before entering the arrivals area. It's essential to retain all immigration documents provided at entry, as these will be required when departing Nicaragua. Before traveling to Managua, visitors should familiarize themselves with Nicaragua's entry requirements, which can vary based on nationality and purpose of visit. While many travelers enjoy visa-free access, all must pay mandatory fees and comply with health and customs regulations. Understanding these requirements in advance will help ensure a smooth arrival experience and avoid any complications at the border.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Nicaragua offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries for tourism purposes. Most visitors can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, though all travelers must purchase a tourist card upon arrival.

Visa-Free Entry

90 days within a 180-day period

Citizens of these countries can enter Nicaragua without obtaining a visa in advance. A tourist card must be purchased upon arrival.

Includes

United States Canada United Kingdom All European Union member states Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Argentina Brazil Chile Costa Rica Mexico Panama Israel Norway Switzerland Most Central and South American countries

Tourist card costs approximately USD $10-12 and must be paid in cash (USD) upon arrival. Keep the receipt as it must be presented when departing. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date. Proof of onward travel may be requested.

CA-4 Border Control Agreement

90 days total within all four countries combined

Special agreement between Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua allowing free movement

Includes

Citizens of Guatemala Citizens of El Salvador Citizens of Honduras

How to Apply: No separate application needed. Can move freely between these four countries.
Cost: No tourist card fee required for CA-4 nationals

The 90-day period applies to time spent in all four CA-4 countries combined, not each country individually. Immigration stamps may not be given when crossing between CA-4 countries by land.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type, typically 30-90 days for tourist visas

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must obtain a visa before traveling to Nicaragua

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Nicaraguan embassy or consulate. Applications typically require completed forms, passport photos, proof of financial means, return ticket, and passport valid for 6 months. Processing time is usually 5-15 business days.

Countries requiring visas include most African nations, many Asian countries (including India, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh), and some Eastern European nations. Check with the Nicaraguan embassy for specific requirements as policies can change. Some nationalities may apply for a visa on arrival in exceptional circumstances, but this is not guaranteed and should not be relied upon.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua, travelers will proceed through several checkpoints before officially entering Nicaragua. The process typically takes 30-90 minutes depending on the number of arriving flights and passengers.

Disembark and Proceed to Immigration

Follow signs to immigration (Migración). Have your passport, completed immigration form (usually provided on the flight), and any required documentation ready.

Purchase Tourist Card

Before reaching immigration counters, visa-exempt travelers must purchase a tourist card at designated windows. This costs approximately USD $10-12 and must be paid in cash (US dollars). Keep the receipt.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, tourist card receipt, and completed immigration form to the immigration officer. They will stamp your passport with an entry stamp indicating your permitted stay duration. The officer may ask questions about your visit.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim and collect your luggage. Carts are available for a small fee (USD $1-2).

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if you have goods to declare. All passengers must pass through customs inspection area, which may include baggage screening.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, exit to the main arrivals area where you can access taxis, shuttles, car rentals, and be greeted by hotel representatives or contacts.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Nicaragua. Should have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Nicaragua (flight, bus, or other transportation). Immigration may request to see this, especially for longer stays.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or letter of invitation if staying with residents. May be requested but not always checked.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (credit cards, bank statements, or cash). Rarely requested but advisable to have available.

Tourist Card Receipt

Receipt from purchasing the tourist card at the airport. Must be presented at immigration and kept for departure.

Completed Immigration Form

Form distributed on the aircraft or available at the airport. Must be filled out completely and legibly.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have USD cash readily available for the tourist card fee - credit cards are not accepted for this payment. Bring small bills as change may be limited.

Fill out immigration forms completely and legibly before reaching the immigration counter to save time.

Keep all immigration documents together in an easily accessible location - you'll need them multiple times during the entry process and when departing.

Make copies or take photos of your passport, visa, and tourist card receipt in case of loss.

Be patient and polite with immigration officers. Answer questions honestly and concisely.

Ensure your accommodation address is written correctly on forms - have it written down or saved on your phone for reference.

If traveling from a country with yellow fever risk, have your vaccination certificate accessible even if not required, as policies can be enforced inconsistently.

The airport can be warm and crowded. Dress comfortably and stay hydrated while waiting in lines.

Customs & Duty-Free

Nicaragua's customs regulations are designed to prevent smuggling while allowing reasonable personal items for tourists. All arriving passengers must pass through customs inspection, and random baggage checks are common. Being honest on your customs declaration and understanding what you can bring will help avoid delays, fines, or confiscation of items.

Alcohol

3 liters of alcoholic beverages

Must be 18 years or older. Bottles should be sealed. Amounts exceeding this limit are subject to duty.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only. Commercial quantities will be taxed or confiscated.

Currency

Amounts exceeding USD $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Both Nicaraguan córdobas and foreign currency count toward this limit. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and penalties. No limit on amount you can bring if properly declared.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to USD $500 in value

Must be for personal use and not for resale. New items in packaging may raise questions. Electronics, cameras, and laptops for personal use are generally allowed beyond this limit but should be declared.

Perfume

Reasonable quantities for personal use (typically up to 3 bottles)

Large quantities may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Medications

Reasonable supply for personal use during your stay

Keep medications in original packaging with prescriptions or doctor's notes, especially for controlled substances.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Nicaragua has strict drug laws with severe penalties including lengthy imprisonment
Firearms and ammunition - unless proper permits obtained in advance from Nicaraguan authorities
Explosives and fireworks - strictly prohibited for security reasons
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items, pirated media, and counterfeit currency
Pornographic materials - broadly defined and subject to local interpretation
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and plant materials - due to agricultural pest concerns
Fresh meats and dairy products - animal disease prevention measures
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals including ivory, certain shells, and exotic animal products
Soil and organic materials - agricultural protection measures
Certain chemicals and hazardous materials - unless properly documented and permitted

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - allowed in reasonable quantities with proper documentation (prescription or doctor's letter). Controlled substances require special permission.
Live animals and pets - require health certificates, vaccination records, and import permits (see Special Situations section)
Plants and seeds - require phytosanitary certificates from country of origin
Drones and aerial photography equipment - may require special permits; check with aviation authorities before bringing
Professional camera and video equipment - large amounts may require temporary import permits or payment of deposit
Radio communication equipment - certain frequencies are restricted; amateur radio equipment may need authorization
Archaeological artifacts - cannot be exported from Nicaragua; importing items that appear to be archaeological artifacts may be questioned

Health Requirements

Nicaragua has specific health requirements for entry, particularly for travelers arriving from countries with certain disease risks. While routine vaccinations should be up to date, additional vaccines may be required or recommended depending on your travel history and planned activities.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from or having transited through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. This includes many countries in South America and Sub-Saharan Africa. Certificate must be presented at immigration. Vaccination must have been administered at least 10 days before arrival.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to food and water safety concerns
Typhoid - Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with local residents or require medical procedures
Rabies - Recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor exposure, working with animals, or visiting remote areas
Routine vaccinations - Ensure up to date on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and yearly flu shot
Malaria prophylaxis - Consider antimalarial medication if visiting certain rural areas, particularly the Caribbean coast and mining regions. Managua city is generally not considered high risk.

Health Insurance

While not legally required for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Nicaragua, especially outside Managua, may be limited. Many healthcare providers require payment upfront or proof of insurance before treatment. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation to your home country or to a country with advanced medical facilities in case of serious illness or injury.

Current Health Requirements: As of December 2024, Nicaragua has lifted most COVID-19-related entry requirements. However, health requirements can change rapidly based on global health situations. Check the official Nicaraguan government health authority websites and your country's travel advisory 2-3 weeks before departure and again shortly before travel for any updates on COVID-19 testing, vaccination requirements, health declarations, or quarantine measures. Some airlines may have their own health requirements beyond government mandates.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Managua for citizen services, emergency assistance, and travel advice

Register with your embassy's traveler registration program before your trip. Keep embassy contact information readily available. Check your government's official travel advisory website for Nicaragua before departure.

Nicaraguan Immigration (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería)

Official immigration authority for visa information, extensions, and immigration matters

Visit www.migob.gob.ni for official information. Main office located in Managua. For visa extensions, you must apply before your authorized stay expires.

Emergency Services

Police: 118 | Ambulance: 128 | Fire: 115 | General Emergency: 911

English may not be widely spoken by emergency operators. Have your location information ready in Spanish if possible. Tourist Police (Policía Turística) can be reached through 118 and may have better English language support.

Augusto C. Sandino International Airport

Main international airport serving Managua - for flight information and airport services

Located approximately 11 km east of central Managua. Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights. Airport code: MGA.

Tourist Information (INTUR)

Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism provides visitor information and assistance

Can provide information on attractions, accommodations, and travel within Nicaragua. Some staff speak English.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors (under 18) traveling alone, with one parent, or with adults who are not their parents require special documentation. If traveling with one parent, bring a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent authorizing the trip. If traveling alone or with non-parents, notarized consent from both parents is required. These documents should be in Spanish or accompanied by certified Spanish translations. Bring original birth certificates showing parentage. Nicaragua strictly enforces these rules to prevent child abduction. Children must have their own passport - they cannot be included on a parent's passport. Divorced or separated parents should bring custody documents. In case of deceased parents, bring death certificates.

Traveling with Pets

Bringing pets to Nicaragua requires advance planning. Dogs and cats need: (1) Health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, (2) Current rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival), (3) Import permit from Nicaragua's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAGFOR), which should be obtained before travel, (4) Pets must be examined by veterinary officials upon arrival at the airport. Airlines have their own requirements for pet travel in cabin or cargo. Certain breeds may be restricted. Birds, reptiles, and exotic animals have additional requirements and may not be permitted. Check with MAGFOR and your airline well in advance. Bring all original documents and Spanish translations.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas allow stays of up to 90 days. To stay longer, you must apply for an extension at the Nicaraguan immigration office (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería) in Managua before your authorized stay expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and typically cost around USD $25-50. You'll need to provide justification for the extension, proof of financial means, and your passport. Alternatively, some travelers do 'border runs' - exiting to a neighboring country and re-entering Nicaragua for a fresh 90-day stamp. However, this practice is discouraged and immigration officers may deny entry if they suspect abuse of tourist visas. For stays longer than 6 months or for work purposes, you must apply for a temporary residency visa, which requires substantial documentation and processing time. Overstaying your visa results in fines (approximately USD $2-3 per day) that must be paid at the airport when departing, and may result in entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business visitors conducting meetings, attending conferences, or exploring business opportunities can generally enter on tourist visas if not receiving payment from Nicaraguan sources. However, if you will be working, receiving local payment, or staying long-term for business, you need a business visa or work permit. Business travelers should bring: invitation letter from Nicaraguan company, business registration documents, and proof of business activities. For extended business stays or employment, apply for appropriate work authorization through immigration authorities before engaging in work activities. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and entry bans.

Dual Citizens

If you hold Nicaraguan citizenship plus another nationality, Nicaragua requires you to enter and exit using your Nicaraguan passport. This applies even if your Nicaraguan passport is expired - you must renew it rather than using your other passport. Failure to comply can result in fines, delays, and complications. Contact the Nicaraguan embassy before travel if you're a dual citizen to ensure you have proper documentation. Nicaragua does not recognize dual citizenship for entry/exit purposes, though it allows dual citizenship status.

Journalists and Media

Professional journalists, photographers, and film crews planning to work in Nicaragua should obtain proper media credentials and permissions before arrival. Contact the Nicaraguan embassy or consulate to inquire about press visa requirements and accreditation procedures. Bringing professional camera equipment on a tourist visa may raise questions. Be prepared to explain your purpose and show that you're not engaging in professional journalism if entering as a tourist. Nicaragua has strict regulations regarding foreign media, and unauthorized professional media activities can result in detention, deportation, and equipment confiscation.