Do I have to be a resident to live there?

At the port of entry, Nicaraguan immigration officials determine how long foreign tourists may stay in Nicaragua. Those entering without a visa generally can stay up to ninety (90) days. Foreign tourists requesting an extension of stay should apply at the main offices of Nicaraguan Immigration. If you don't get residency, every three months you can drive over the border into Costa Rica. There you have your passport stamped and be free and clear for the next three months.

Nicaraguan Immigration imposes a fine on foreigners who exceed their length of stay without proper authorization. Generally, the fine amounts to a little over $1.00 per day of illegal stay and the foreigner may not leave the country until the fine is paid. This fine is often waived if the U.S. citizen is a dual national and has a Nicaraguan passport.

Nicaraguan Entry/Exit Stamps

If you are a foreign tourist, your Nicaraguan entry/exit stamp or form authorizing an extension-of-stay must be presented to Nicaraguan Immigration prior to departing Nicaragua.If you cannot present either of these documents, you will need to go to a Nicaraguan immigration office to seek a replacement.

If you cannot present your entry/exit stamp because it was stolen or lost along with your U.S. passport, then the U.S. Embassy can provide you with a letter for Nicaraguan Immigration. This letter will explain the circumstances surrounding the issuance of the new passport and request the issuance of a replacement entry/stamp stamp. You will need to present this letter, your new passport, and request form (available in their offices). Unless you have overstayed the time allotted to you upon entry into Nicaragua, you will not have to pay a fee.

Nicaraguan Residency Requirements

There are two main categories of residency in Nicaragua: permanent and temporary. Under these two main categories exist a wide variety of subcategories with varying requirements. The best source of information on Nicaraguan residency requirements is the Nicaraguan government and/or a Nicaraguan attorney.

The following requirements are common to most subcategories of residency:
•Residency request form (available at the Immigration office)
•Your passport (valid for at least an additional six months)
•Photocopy of every used page of your passport
•Two Nicaraguan passport-size photographs
•Criminal background certificate* (requirement waived for minors)•
•Health certificate
•Birth certificate

Fees ranging from approximately $12.00 for the residence card to $30.00 for the residency fee.

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