By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly whether you need a visa, how to apply, what fees to expect, and key tips—like the CA-4 agreement and health requirements—that most sites miss. Let’s get you ready for Nicaragua.
Who Needs a Visa—and Who Doesn’t
Nicaragua divides visitors into visa-exempt, those who can buy a tourist card on arrival, and those who must apply in advance.
• Citizens of the EU, UK, Canada, and many Latin American countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days (with no visa required).
• You must hold a passport valid for at least six months at entry to qualify.
• Nationals of some countries buy a Tourist Card on arrival; others apply for a visa at an embassy before travel.
Always check the latest list of visa-exempt nations before you depart, since governments update this frequently.
The CA-4 Border Control Agreement
Nicaragua participates in the Central America-4 (CA-4) Agreement, which covers Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. A single entry stamp lets you travel freely among these four countries for up to 90 days total, per the SICA overview of the CA-4 visa regime.
Passport, Tourist Card & Entry Rules
Your passport and entry document are your keys to Nicaragua.
- Passport valid for ≥6 months.
- Proof of onward or return ticket.
- Proof of funds (often US $500–US $1,000 total, per the UK Foreign Office entry requirements).
The Tourist Card Explained
If you’re exempt from a full visa, you’ll usually purchase a Tourist Card at the airport or land border (around US $10–US $15 in cash), as detailed by iVisa’s Nicaragua travel guide. It’s not a visa, but a short-stay permit valid for 90 days.
How to Apply for Your Nicaragua Visa
You have two main routes:
- Online (eVisa) – Nicaragua’s electronic system lets you upload documents, pay fees, and receive approval by email through the official eVisa portal.
- In-person at an embassy – Submit your form, passport photos, and documents to a Nicaraguan consulate listed on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Required documents typically include:
– Completed application form
– Passport copy
– Two passport-style photos
– Proof of funds and travel itinerary
– Visa fee payment (see below)
eVisa & Online Immigration Forms
The eVisa portal streamlines approvals and saves you a consular visit. Within days, you’ll download your visa, print it, and present it on arrival.
Fees, Processing & Overstay Penalties
Understanding costs helps you budget:
• Tourist Card: US $10–US $15 (cash, USD only)
• Tourist Visa (if required): US $50–US $100, depending on nationality, as noted by Passport Index’s Nicaragua visa guide
• Processing time: 3–10 business days for consular visas, 1–3 days for eVisas
Overstaying carries consequences—fines, detention or deportation, and possible bans on future entry—per the U.S. Department of State travel advisory.
Payment & Currency
- Fees are almost always in US dollars.
- Some border posts accept credit cards, but not all—carry cash to avoid delays.
Health, Safety & Additional Checks
Vaccination Requirements
If you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk, you must show a valid yellow fever vaccination, as specified by the World Health Organization.
Children Traveling Without Both Parents
Minors need a notarized parental consent letter if one or both parents aren’t present at entry or exit, according to Nicaragua Vacations entry requirements.
Entry Denial & Watchlists
Even with perfect paperwork, you may be denied entry if:
– You have a serious criminal record.
– You appear on international watchlists.
Border officers have final authority—stay informed and honest about your plans.
Keeping an Eye on Travel Advisories
Political demonstrations or unrest can affect processing times and border operations. Check your government’s travel advisory before you book flights.
Ready to Go?
You’re now equipped with every essential detail—from visa categories and CA-4 benefits to health rules and overstay fines. Double-check your nationality’s specific rules, secure your Tourist Card or eVisa, and pack that yellow fever certificate if needed. Safe travels to Nicaragua!