Nicaragua

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 118 for police.
• Dial 128 for ambulance. 

Authoritarian Rule

The Government of Nicaragua is authoritarian. It limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

• The government represses internal dissent and monitors and responds to perceived threats to its authority.
• Nicaragua’s Sovereign Security Law and its Terrorism and Money Laundering Law allow broad interpretations of vague unlawful activities, like threatening national peace or economic stability. Convictions under these laws have often been arbitrary. They result in long prison sentences and loss of assets (money and property). They also result in deportations with bans on returning to Nicaragua.
• Nicaraguan authorities and armed civilians in plain clothes known as “voluntary police” may monitor, detain, deny entry to, expel, or question U.S. citizens concerning their activities. This includes U.S. citizen contact with Nicaraguan citizens. Visitors should avoid any commentary on Nicaraguan politics or governance.
• The Nicaraguan government may detain or expel individuals for activities that would not be considered criminal or offensive in the United States.
• Nicaraguan authorities have detained U.S. citizens, including dual U.S.-Nicaraguan citizens, for long periods. These detentions are often politically motivated or random. In politically motivated arrests, the judicial process is often criticized for being unfair and lacking transparency.

Demonstrations

Potentially disruptive events may occur at any time without warning throughout the country. In the past, the Nicaraguan government has violently suppressed demonstrations and strikes. Avoid demonstrations and exercise extreme caution around large gatherings.

Roads may be closed, and public transportation may be disrupted due to large crowds celebrating the following holidays:

• Semana Santa (the week before Easter)
• Repliegue Historico a Masaya (early July)
• Sandinista Revolution (the week of July 19^th)
• Celebration in Managua of Santo Domingo, the Patron Saint of the city (August 1st and August 10th)
• Day of the Nicaraguan Army (September 2)
• Nicaraguan Independence Day (September 14 and 15)
• Immaculate Conception (December 8)

Crime

• Vehicle burglaries, pickpocketing, and occasional armed robberies occur. They happen in many places, including store parking lots, on public transportation, and in open-air markets like the Oriental and Huembes Markets in Managua
• Petty street crime is common. Police presence is limited outside of major urban areas.
• The Caribbean coast’s isolation also limits the U.S. embassy’s ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens there.
• Uniformed police and parapolice commit violence and intimidate civilians throughout the country for political reasons.
• U.S. citizens have reported extortion for bribes. These occurred at immigration and police checkpoints. This is common throughout the country.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Exercise extreme caution when renting or driving vehicles. In one common scam, “Good Samaritans” pull over to help change a flat tire. While the driver is distracted, an accomplice steals the driver’s possessions.

Internet romance scams occur in Nicaragua. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

If you decide to use a dating app or website in Nicaragua:

• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

U.S. government employees working in Nicaragua are not allowed to enter the following places due to safety risks:

• Managua’s oriental market
• Managua’s national baseball stadium
• Gentleman’s clubs and casinos throughout Nicaragua

U.S. government employees working in Nicaragua are also not allowed to drive after dark, except within the city limits of Managua and along Carretera Masaya between Managua and Granada. This is due to safety risks such as inadequate street lighting and poor road conditions outside urban centers. Additionally, U.S. government employees are prohibited from using public transportation due to safety risks.

U.S. citizens in Nicaragua are advised to take the same precautions.

Beginning April 15, 2026, non-personal service contractors traveling to Nicaragua on official U.S. government business are required to travel on a service passport. This requirement is meant to mitigate potential delays, denials of entry, searches, and confiscation of property by the Government of Nicaragua.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 118.

Review our information for victims of crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

• U.S. citizens have been sexually assaulted in beach resort areas.
• There are no forensic doctors on the Corn Islands. Victims of violent crimes, including sexual assault, must travel to Bluefields at their own expense for medical examinations and collection of evidence. In several recent cases, police were reluctant to produce police reports or pursue charges. Please report such incidents to the U.S. embassy.
• Medical services outside Managua are limited, including for victims of crime.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• The use of drones is illegal.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• Diving in the Corn Islands is especially dangerous. The nearest hyperbaric chamber is over 100 miles away in Puerto Cabezas.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Beach safety

Exercise extreme caution at Nicaraguan beaches.

• Strong currents make swimming extremely dangerous.
• Even experienced swimmers are at risk.
• U.S. citizens have drowned at local beaches.
• Drownings also occur in lagoons and lakes.
• Lifeguards are rarely available.
• Swimmers and surfers have been hit by boats.
• Serious injuries and deaths have occurred.
• Alcohol and swimming can be deadly.

Hiking safety

Hiking in volcanic or remote areas is dangerous.

• Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear.
• Bring enough food and water.
• Carry reliable communication equipment.
• Hire a reputable local guide for remote areas.
• Local guides are required for most volcanic hikes, including Ometepe’s Maderas and Concepcion volcanoes.

Coastal disputes

Be aware of the following border disputes:

• Nicaragua and Colombia have an ongoing dispute over waters surrounding the San Andres Islands.
• The Nicaraguan Navy has challenged vessels passing through its exclusive economic zone.
• Nicaragua and Costa Rica have stationed security forces at Harbor Head (also called Isla Calero) at the eastern end of the San Juan River.
• Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador have maritime and land disputes over islands and access to fishing rights in the Gulf of Fonseca on the Pacific Coast.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Nicaragua are severe.
• Even with a prescription, marijuana is illegal in Nicaragua.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials and family and friends to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

• Nicaraguan authorities do not always notify the U.S. embassy when a U.S. citizen has been arrested or detained.
• In the case of dual U.S.-Nicaraguan nationals, the U.S. embassy may be denied consular access.
• Arrested U.S. citizens may find themselves subject to prolonged detention without charges, often for political reasons.
• Nicaraguan authorities have ignored or significantly delayed implementing judicial orders to release, deport, expel, or transfer prisoners, due to political reasons.
• Prison conditions can be harsh and life-threatening.
• The Department has determined there is a risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Government of Nicaragua.

Property rights

Exercise extreme caution when investing in or buying property in Nicaragua.

• Property rights enforcement is unreliable.
• The Nicaragua government routinely seizes private property without compensation or due process.
• On August 5, 2025, the Nicaraguan government passed a law that made all land within 15 km of a national border a “border territory” and subject to seizure.
• Authorities may not evict illegal occupants from private property.
• U.S. citizens have faced arrest or threats over property disputes.

Customs regulations

The U.S. embassy cannot assist with customs or import issues.

• Drones and similar devices are prohibited. Customs authorities will seize them.
• Customs may also seize photography equipment, videography equipment, and binoculars, and any similar items, such as gaming systems. There may be no way to get these items back later.
• Nicaraguan government authorities may also search and seize personal phones, computers, electronics, and documents to look for anti-government content.
• Do not transport or attempt to import any items that could be considered weapons or military equipment.
• Use a recognized customs broker before importing items to Nicaragua.
• Advanced approval is required for wildlife observation, including bird watching, or other scientific activities.
• Consult customs before importing vehicles, goods, or large medicine quantities.
• Nicaraguan customs officials may delay or block import of goods, including items intended for donations.
• U.S. citizens have reported being fined or required to pay unpublished and costly duties or taxes when importing goods.

Dual nationals

• As of January 16, 2026, the Nicaraguan constitution prohibits dual nationality in most circumstances.
• The change is not retroactive.
• The enforcement and procedures are not clear.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers and charities

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

If you plan to lead a group trip, email both the Nicaraguan Embassy in the United States at asistente.emb@embanic.org and the Nicaraguan Ministry of Foreign Affairs at enlace@cancilleria.gob.ni.

Inform them of your trip. Get advance permission, even if your group has worked in Nicaragua before or has a local office.

This rule applies if you are part of a:

• volunteer mission
• charitable brigade
• medical brigade (also needs permission from the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health)
• visit organized by NGOs, religious groups, missionaries, charitable groups, schools, or any other group doing this type of work in Nicaragua. 

Important: Even with approved visits or permits, the Government of Nicaragua can cancel the decision without warning.

Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex relations.
• Violence against gay and lesbian travelers is uncommon, but widespread discrimination exists.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

• Nicaragua has closed more than 5,600 NGOs since 2018.
• NGO employees and volunteers may be denied entry.
• Those in Nicaragua risk investigation or expulsion.

Political and religious activity

Unauthorized political or religious activities may lead to detention or expulsion.

• Criticizing the government online can result in detention or expulsion.
• The government cancels large religious events without warning. Event organizers have been threatened with arrest.

Social media

The Government of Nicaragua may monitor social media accounts.

• Authorities may deny entry based on social media content.
• Critical or controversial posts can trigger investigation or expulsion.
• Exercise caution with online activity about Nicaragua.

Sending mail or money

Expect all mail to be opened and reviewed.

• Nicaraguan authorities may catalog your mail’s contents.
• Nicaraguan customs routinely intercept checks and money shipments.
• Customs may retain debit and credit cards.
• Use caution when sending valuables to Nicaragua.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Nicaragua prohibits discrimination against people with mental and physical disabilities. However, discrimination is widespread in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of state services.
• There is limited or no accessibility assistance for public transportation and in many public areas. There are few sidewalks and pedestrian road crossings.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women Travelers

• Review our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Human rights

The human rights situation in Nicaragua worsened during the past year. The Government of Nicaragua intensified attacks on civil and religious liberties.

• There have been credible reports of arbitrary killings, torture, and disappearances.
• Nicaraguan authorities have failed to punish officials for human rights abuses.
• There are serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media.
• Independent journalists are not allowed in Nicaragua. Journalists who attempt to travel to Nicaragua face increased risks.
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Nicaragua prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Nicaragua Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 118 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor. Ambulances may not be equipped with advanced medical equipment.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free for foreigners in Nicaragua. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Most hospitals require payment up front before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

People who have visited or transited through countries at risk for yellow fever must show proof of yellow fever vaccination. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel to enter Nicaragua. The World Health Organization card, known as “yellow card,” serves as valid proof of vaccination.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Many hospitals are understaffed.
• Some hospitals may not be able to help in emergencies.
• Only basic, limited emergency medical services are available outside Managua.
• Physicians and hospital personnel frequently do not speak English.
• Nicaragua has only one hospital with Joint Commission International  certification. Even this hospital has very few specialists for acute emergencies.
• Medical services outside Managua are limited, including for crime victims.
• Government hospitals are understaffed.
• Some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies.

Common diseases

The following diseases are common in Nicaragua:

• Mosquito-borne diseases (zika, dengue fever, and chikungunya)
• Upper respiratory viruses (Influenza, COVID-19, and pneumonia)
• Infectious bacterial diseases (typhoid fever and leptospirosis)
• Intestinal illnesses (giardiasis)
• New world screwworm
• Rabies

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• If traveling with prescription medication, review the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health's Pharmacy Department web guidance page on entering with pharmaceuticals products.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Nicaragua to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Nicaragua with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Nicaragua courts.

Water quality and food safety

• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Main roads between major cities are generally paved and in good condition. Other roads may have potholes, lack shoulders, and be poorly lit and narrow.

• Speed bumps are often poorly marked.
• During the rainy season, roads may become flooded or have additional damage.
• Horse carts, loose animals, and pedestrians cross roads in front of oncoming traffic. This happens even on major roads in the main cities.
• Motorcyclists often drive between lanes of traffic.
• Most roads on the Caribbean coast are unpaved.
• Road signs throughout the country are limited or non-existent.
• Road travel after dark is hazardous in all areas.
• Carry a cellphone in case of emergency. However, cellphone reception may be spotty in many areas of the country.
• Do not drive outside urban areas after dark.

Traffic laws

After an accident

Wait for police and insurance representatives before moving your vehicle.

• Do not move your vehicle until you are instructed by police.
• Moving your vehicle early may result in legal liability.
• Police and insurance may not respond, especially overnight.

Traffic violations and speed limits

As of June 17, 2025, new national speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) for most vehicles and 40 km/h (25 mph) for motorcycles. These speed limits apply on all roads even if they are not posted.

• Children are not allowed as motorcycle passengers.
• If you are stopped for a traffic violation, police may confiscate your driver’s license until you pay the fine.
• You may not recover your license quickly, depending on your stay.

Mandatory detention

• Police must detain drivers for:
  • Driving under the influence (legal limit: 0.05% BAC).
  • Accidents causing serious injury or death.
• In fatal accidents, drivers are held until a legal settlement is reached. The minimum detention for fatal accidents is 48 hours.

Required documents and equipment

• All drivers must carry:
  • driver’s license
  • proof of insurance
  • vehicle registration
  • emergency triangle
  • fire extinguisher
  • inspection and registration stickers
• This applies to rental vehicles as well.
• Penalties for missing items include fines and towing.
• For more information, contact the Nicaraguan National Police or Embassy of Nicaragua.

Traffic stops and police conduct

• Transit police frequently stop vehicles with local or foreign plates.
• If asked for a bribe, request a receipt, the officer’s name, and badge number.
• Report police mistreatment to Nicaragua’s National Police and the U.S. Embassy in Managua.

Additional recommendations

• To avoid liability, consider hiring a professional driver through a reputable hotel.

Taxis and ride-shares

• U.S. government employees are not permitted to use taxis or moto taxis due to safety and crime concerns.
• Several ride share apps are available in Nicaragua.
• U.S. government employees can currently only use the Ray app.

Public and commercial transportation

• Buses, moto-taxis, and ferries often lack proper safety equipment.
• U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use public buses due to safety and crime concerns.
• Exercise caution due to overloaded or unsafe ferries and boats. Check with local naval or police authorities about the safety of being on the water depending on the weather. Most vessels provide insufficient numbers of life vests and other safety equipment.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Nicaragua’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.
• Airports in remote places often have short airstrips, minimal safety equipment, and little boarding security.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Nicaragua should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Natural disasters

Nicaragua is prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and volcanic eruptions.

• Have a plan for how to seek emergency care, shelter, or evacuation routes. Many remote locations in the country lack good cell phone coverage.
• If traveling during the rainy season (from May to November), inclement weather can develop suddenly and last for days. This creates flooding and landslides.
• If you are at a coastal area when an earthquake occurs, move quickly to higher ground, when safe to do so, to avoid possible tsunamis.
• In the event of an earthquake, volcanic eruption, or other natural disaster, U.S. citizens should pay close attention to local media reports.
• In Nicaragua, the national disaster prevention system (SINAPRED) will post updates on their website or social media accounts.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important emergency information and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website for information about disaster preparedness
• Monitor the National Hurricane Center to be aware of weather developments. 
• Additional information on hurricanes and storm preparedness can be found on the Department's Crisis and Disaster Abroad: Be Ready webpage. 
• Review the status of Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua before your trip.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates