Nicaragua is a country in Central America that offers foreigners quite interesting programs for obtaining a second residence permit. Although it is one of the poorest countries in the region, it is endowed with unlimited natural resources and golden sandy beaches. Learn more about the specifics of moving to Nicaragua in 2024

Over the past decade, interest in Central American countries, particularly Nicaragua, has grown significantly. This is due to the improvement in the quality of life, economic changes and infrastructure development. In Nicaragua, broken roads have disappeared, electricity is supplied by wind generators, and progress is visible in all areas. 

It is not difficult to obtain a residence permit in Nicaragua. A thousand dollars a month is enough for a comfortable life for a family of two. Real estate prices are moderate: a house can be bought for 70-100 thousand dollars, and properties by the sea cost from 150 thousand dollars. According to statistics, the largest number of expats arrive in Nicaragua from Panama, Colombia, as well as the United States and Spain, who choose this country as a place for "retirement immigration".

Benefits of living in Nicaragua in 2024

Located in the heart of Central America, Nicaragua offers unique advantages for those looking for a new place to live in 2024. With a rich history, beautiful natural landscapes and a relatively low cost of living, this country is attracting more and more attention from both tourists and those planning to settle here.

Let us consider the main advantages of living in Nicaragua:

1. Natural scenery and climate. Nicaragua is famous for its impressive natural landscapes. From volcanoes and mountains to lakes and rainforests, the country offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The climate in Nicaragua is warm and tropical, allowing you to enjoy good weather throughout the year. This makes the country an ideal destination for those who want to avoid cold winters and enjoy the sunshine for most of the year;

2. Low cost of living. One of the biggest advantages of living in Nicaragua is the relatively low cost of living. Prices for housing, food and services are significantly lower than in many developed countries. This allows you to live comfortably even on a limited budget;

3. Friendly locals. Nicaraguans are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Integration into the local society is usually easy, and locals are often ready to help newcomers adapt to life in the country. Knowledge of Spanish, even at a basic level, can greatly facilitate the integration process;

4. Developed infrastructure for expats. There are more and more medical facilities, schools and other services in the country that meet high standards. It is important to note that healthcare in Nicaragua is affordable and of high quality, which is an important factor for many people;

5. Investment opportunities. Growing interest in the country from tourists and expats is contributing to higher real estate prices, making it an attractive investment destination. In addition, the Nicaraguan government actively encourages foreign investment by offering various incentives and simplified procedures for businesses;

6. Cultural wealth. Nicaragua's culture is rich and diverse, with influences from Spanish, Native American and African traditions. Local holidays, music, dance and cuisine create a unique atmosphere.

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For safe relocation to any country in the world, obtaining citizenship and employment, use the advice of an international lawyer. We help to solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in any part of the world. 

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Do I need a visa to travel to Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is a wonderful country with a rich culture and picturesque landscapes that deserves your attention when planning a holiday. For citizens of most countries in Europe, North and South America, travelling to Nicaragua is much easier, as you do not need a visa to visit the country for tourism or to visit friends and relatives. It is enough to have a valid passport that allows you to stay in the country for 90 days.

An interesting feature is the agreement between Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador, under which a visa from one of these countries is sufficient to visit the others. Although this system is not yet fully operational, it offers great prospects for travellers who can visit four countries at once with only one visa.

Upon arrival in Nicaragua, you will need to obtain a tourist card, which costs $10. Even if you are exempt from obtaining a visa, this card is mandatory. Also, all foreign nationals must fill out an online immigration form on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nicaragua at least 7 days before arrival.

How to get a residence permit in Nicaragua?

The government of the country has taken many steps to simplify the procedure for obtaining a residence permit for foreigners. This is because the country is aware of the benefits of welcoming foreigners at its borders. 

There are 3 different categories of permanent residence programmes that foreigners can apply for:

1. Pensionado visa: a residence programme for those who are at least 40 years old and have a stable and regular income of at least $600. This visa provides a minimum period of stay in Nicaragua of 1 year, which can be extended;

2. Rentista visa: there are no age restrictions for applying for this visa. However, the minimum monthly income required to apply for this visa is $750. This income can be obtained by any legal means;

3. Investor visa: the programme is intended for investors. Investments can be made in any sector. The minimum amount is $30,000. It can be used to purchase land, any real estate or any other purpose.

Regardless of what type of residence permit you are applying for, there are certain documents that you will need to provide:

- international and ordinary passport

- birth certificate;

- a health certificate

- certificate of no criminal record;

- marriage certificate (if any).

After that, the documents need to be translated into Spanish and certified by a public notary. After translation, you will need to travel to Nicaragua to apply for a residence permit. This can be done at the migration office.

How to obtain Nicaraguan citizenship in 2024?

Becoming a Nicaraguan citizen in 2024 may be attractive for those who are looking for new opportunities or planning to move to Central America. Nicaragua offers several paths to citizenship, the most common of which are naturalisation, investment, marriage and descent.

1. Citizenship by naturalisation

The naturalisation process is one of the most common ways to obtain Nicaraguan citizenship. The main requirements include:

1. Permanent residence: the applicant must have resided in Nicaragua for at least 5 years;

2. Language skills: knowledge of Spanish is mandatory

3. Financial stability: the applicant must demonstrate financial independence and the ability to provide for himself/herself and his/her family.

2. Citizenship by investment

Investors can benefit from a special programme to obtain citizenship through investment. Main requirements:

1. Minimum investment amount: the investor must invest a certain amount of money in the country's economy. As of 2024, the minimum investment amount may change, so you should check with the relevant authorities for the current requirements;

2. Types of investments: real estate, business or other government-approved projects.

3. Citizenship by marriage

Marriage to a Nicaraguan national can also be a basis for citizenship. The main requirements include:

1. Legal marriage: the marriage must be registered officially in Nicaragua;

2. Length of residence: usually, you need to have been married for at least 2 years before applying for citizenship;

3. Documents: proof of marriage, cohabitation and integration into Nicaraguan society is required.

To apply for citizenship, you need to prepare the following documents:

1. a completed application form;

2. Passport and other identification documents;

3. Birth certificate;

4. Proof of financial stability;

5. Medical examination;

6. Proof of residence in the country.

After collecting all the documents, the applicant submits them to the relevant state body dealing with citizenship issues. The application process can take from several months to a year.

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Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.

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