See Natural disasters for advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake. In fatal accidents, drivers are held until they reach a legal settlement with the victimâs family. There are few sidewalks and pedestrian road crossings. Fax: +(505) 2252-7250 Yellow fever (in some cases, see Entry Requirements section). Recommended Web Browsers: Internet Explorer 11 with compatibility view or Google Chrome. Granada is a true colonial city, with 400-year-old buildings, horse-drawn carriages, colonial architecture and a layout that includes a historic center with a cathedral. Use caution when walking or driving at night. It's kind of dangerous and chaotic. Even with a prescription, marijuana is illegal in Nicaragua. U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations, and review the, For visitors other than tourists, the Nicaraguan government recommends that you pre-register your trip by following the instructions available on the, Many travelers must show proof of yellow fever vaccination administered at least 10 days before travel in order to be permitted entry to Nicaragua. If you like surfing and/or the beach lifestyle, you should investigate San Juan del Sur. Warning signs are not posted. Both coasts have oceans with strong currents. Something that at least my generation has never experienced before. Among the most visionary developments is Gran Pacifica, conceived by a team headed by Mike Cobb. Travelers should expect delays returning to the U.S. and there is reduced availability of flights. Information may also be posted to the websites of the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (select âbroadcast warningsâ). Disaster Preparedness: Nicaragua is prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and volcanic eruptions. Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Nicaragua should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the Maritime Administration website. Nicaragua and Colombia have an ongoing dispute over waters surrounding the San Andres Islands. Disaster Preparedness: Nicaragua is prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and volcanic eruptions. Influenza), Infectious bacterial diseases (e.g. There are severe penalties, including imprisonment, for domestic violence, psychological abuse, and non-payment of child support. Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. In some places, swimming is forbidden completely. Advanced Coordination Required for Volunteer Groups: You should email both the Embassy of Nicaragua in the United States (asistente.emb@embanic.org) and the Nicaraguan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (enlace@cancilleria.gob.ni) to inform them of your trip if you are leading one of the following types of trips, even if your group has worked in Nicaragua previously or has a local office: For the latest visa and entry requirements, visit the Embassy of Nicaragua or Nicaraguan Immigration websites (Spanish only). Receive full access to our market insights, commentary, newsletters, breaking news alerts, and more. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas. See Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements below. How Nicaraguans Feel About Americans and Other Expats, Given the history of animosity between the U.S. Nicaraguan governments, you might expect that Nicaraguans would resent or otherwise not like Americans. Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details: LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Nicaragua. The Embassy is unable to assist with the customs or import process. Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. Several bags with a total of 20 to 30 pounds of fresh, organic produce cost less than $10. All U.S. citizen employees of the U.S. government and their family members should inform the U.S. Embassy in Managua, regardless of whether they are entering Nicaragua by car, plane, or boat and regardless of whether they are traveling on their official/diplomatic/regular passports. It even has an entire department for medical tourism headed by manager Arlen Perez. Since the 2018 civil unrest, Nicaraguan authorities have denied entry to or expelled foreigners, including NGO workers, academics, and journalists, for political reasons, including perceived support of pro-democracy or human rights movements. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Nicaragua. Charitable or medical brigade (the latter also need permission from the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health); or. Help you find accommodation and flights home. The more expensive homes tend to be closer to the center, and if you buy an existing home and want to remodel it, you will have to adhere to strict architectural codes that maintain the colonial character of the area. Be prepared for … " Nicaragua is a safe, stable, country and second only to Canada as the safest in the Western Hemisphere based on a study by The Inter-American Institute on Human Rights and the International Police Organization." Surf's Up, Dude! While Nicaraguan laws provide for a fair and transparent judicial process, it is not always provided in practice by Nicaraguan authorities, particularly in cases of politically motivated arrests. Arbitrarily detain pro-democracy advocates. For me, personally, yes, Nicaragua is safe. The Government of Nicaragua requires special notification for official travelers. Exercise caution in the face of possibly overloaded or unsafe ferries and boats. Email: ACSManagua@state.gov. Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to crime. Relatively Safe Nicaragua is one of the safest sections of South America to live, and a good place to raise families or just to call home. Managua Cathedral: Nicaragua is actually the safest place to live in Central America, despite being the poorest nation in the Americas Is Nicaragua really safe? If you are at a coastal area when an earthquake occurs, move swiftly to higher ground (when safe to do so) to avoid possible tsunamis. However, especially during overnight hours, police and insurance companies may not respond. Nicaragua’s government is authoritarian; it limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Should you consider it as well? The virus was shown to have spread to Nicaragua when the first case, a Nicaraguan citizen who had returned to the country from Panama , was confirmed on 18 March 2020. ", Gallagher said his second measure of safety was how people acted: "Older, single women would not be retiring here, building homes, starting businesses and hanging out at the outdoor establishments if it wasn't safe.". 14 Things to Know About Buying Property in Nicaragua. If you travel to remote areas, hire a reputable local guide. The Web site Best Places In The World To Retire has more than 500 answers to the questions most often asked about moving to and living in Nicaragua, provided by more than 100 expats already there. Do not display signs of wealth such as expensive watches or jewelry. While the city has affluent parts that are safe to live in, there is not a definable city center, which means selecting a place to live … Consider arrangements to depart the country quickly. Telephone: +(505) 2252-7100 Demonstrations happen throughout the country and many have turned violent in the past. Remittances from Nicaraguans living abroad and foreign assistance are the country’s main sources of foreign income, though income from tourism has increased since the 1990s. When asked about safety in Nicaragua, about half of the Nicaraguan expats immediately respond that Nicaragua is the second safest country in Latin America, as reported by the UN. Police presence is extremely limited outside of major urban areas. Maintain adequate supplies of food, cash, potable water, and fuel in case you need to shelter in place. This article is commentary by an independent contributor. If you choose the golden middle way between living frugally and like royalty, a monthly budget of $1,300 will do just fine in most parts of Nicaragua. Further information may be found on the FAAâs safety assessment page. San Juan del Sur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified. Report serious crime to the U.S. Embassy at 2252-7100 immediately and minor crimes during business hours. Avoid demonstrations and exercise extreme caution around large gatherings. American products that have to be imported will cost about the same as in the U.S. or a bit more. Nicaragua has changed, and is definitely worth consideration as a place to live for North American expatriates. The Government of Nicaragua is authoritarian, limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, represses internal dissent, and monitors and responds to perceived threats to its authority. NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Over the last several years, Nicaragua has become increasingly popular as a vacation spot, as well as a place for expatriates from North America and other countries to move. To avoid liability, consider hiring a professional driver through a reputable hotel. For more information, check with the Nicaraguan National Police or the Embassy of Nicaragua. See our Road Safety page for more information and the Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism and National Transit Authority. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging labeled with your doctorâs prescribing information. Located toward the southern end of Nicaragua on the Pacific coast, San Juan del Sur used to be a sleepy fishing village. Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Family of four estimated monthly costs: $1,776 (62,030 C$) Single person estimated monthly costs: $674 (23,536 C$) WARNING! After the Embassy learns of an arrest, it may be several days or weeks before the Government of Nicaragua permits a consular official to visit. They narrowed it down to Central and South America, and then narrowed it down again to Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama, Nicaragua and Uruguay. If you receive a traffic violation, police will confiscate your driverâs license until you pay the fine at a bank. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Adjusting to Life in Nicaragua. "Patience, that is the key word for Nicaragua. We do not pay your medical bills. Other roads may have potholes, be poorly lit, be narrow, and lack shoulders. Nicaraguan authorities and violent, armed civilians in plain clothes acting extralegally and with impunity (âpara-policeâ) may. U.S. citizens have been arrested or threatened over property disputes. Some Americans, Canadians seek new lives in Nicaragua Expats from the United States and Canada have found Nicaragua to be a cheap and safe place to reside outside of their home countries. By Joel Stott-Jess, We often get asked what the process is like buying real estate in Nicaragua as a foreign citizen. There is no travel warning listed for Nicaragua. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details. Granada has a lively, fun entertainment area, and plenty of expats live there. Out here in San Juan del Sur, I do not worry about a thing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Nicaragua due to COVID-19. When entering with your vehicle, you must have the original registration and title. With a population of just over 150,000, it has most of the amenities you need and good health facilities. Action Alerts PLUS is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc. The legal process can result in prolonged detentions of U.S. citizens. Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies), North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea). Paso Pacifico reforestation aims to combat deterioration Gate-Guarded Beachfront/1950s Americana. However, if you have a serious health condition that would require you to be very close to a hospital, you would need to live close to Managua. You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State. Nicaragua and Costa Rica have stationed security forces at Harbor Head (also called Isla Calero) at the eastern end of the San Juan River. Check with local naval or police authorities about the safety of being on the water in local weather conditions. It is safer here compared to where I used to live in Costa Rica. T… Carlos Gutierrez is a developer who is planning to provide even more affordable housing for expats and others in an area about two miles from the historic center of Granada. Now it's a rapidly growing tourist destination with a 1940s California surf town vibe, a small town center and multiple developments radiating outward that can range in price from what someone living only on Social Security could afford, to multimillion-dollar mansions. U.S. government personnel may be subject to restrictions on their movements at any time. Uniformed police or para-police commit violence and intimidate civilians throughout the country, often for political reasons. Managua, Nicaragua Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers. The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Nicaragua. Nicaragua has one hospital accredited by the Joint Commission International, Hospital Metropolitano Vivian Pellas, located in Managua. What seems to worry most potential travelers to Nicaragua is not crime, but war. Along the Pacific Coast from San Juan del Sur and stretching 80 miles or so to the north are several gate guarded, beachfront communities. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Road Conditions and Safety: Main roads between major cities are paved and in good condition. However, common crime appears not to be the central issue for those considering a visit to Nicaragua. Living in Nicaragua is successful for me, as I live with an 'adoptive' family many of whom have worked for me in three countries and the extended family of cousins etc gives me a circle of safety, love, and networking, but outside of them, I have no business here. Please review the requirements on. Nicaragua offers quite a few different expat lifestyle options: Colonial. It is a highly … Arbitrarily seize and/or search private property including personal phones and computers for anti-government content. Crime: Vehicle burglaries, pick-pocketing, and occasional armed robberies occur in store parking lots, on public transportation, and in open-air markets like the Oriental and Huembes Markets in Managua. After five trips there, they decided Nicaragua it was the place they wanted to live. Anything produced within Nicaragua will also be very cheap. Last Update: Reissued with updates to Civil Unrest and Crime. Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Nicaragua is in a seismically active region. Ambulance services provide transportation and basic first aid only and are unreliable throughout the country. Further Reading on Granada For an in depth look at Granada check out our Granada Starter Kit , a 64 page book packed full of info on Granada. Comparing apples to apples, you can dramatically lower your cost of living by moving to Nicaragua. Penalties for not having any of the above include fines and towing. Nicaragua, country of Central America.It is the largest of the Central American republics. You will not hear crimes in the news and you will not see them on the streets either. Systematically target opposition figures (regardless of nationality), including former allies, political activists, business representatives, clergy, human rights advocates, and members of the press. If you possess multiple nationalities, you should carry a valid passport for all of them. Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to COVID-19, limited healthcare availability, and arbitrary enforcement of laws. Outside of this hospital, there is some good primary care in places such as Granada and scattered about Nicaragua, but not much. Is Nicaragua a safe place for a American to live? Do not drive outside urban areas after dark. Medical services outside Managua are limited, including for victims of crime. Nicaragua is actually the safest country in all of Latin America. Convictions under these laws are largely arbitrary and may result in long prison sentences. Carry a cellphone in case of emergency. When asked about safety in Nicaragua, about half of the Nicaraguan expats immediately respond that Nicaragua is the second safest country in Latin America, as reported by the UN. Expats tell us that the care in this facility is up to big-city U.S. standards (sometimes better) and that the costs are extremely low. Arbitrarily detain individuals with unfounded charges of terrorism, money laundering, and organized crime for political motives. Roads may be closed, and public transportation may be disrupted due to large crowds celebrating the following holidays: Repliegue Historico a Masaya (early July); July 19 celebration of the Sandinista Revolution; 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); and. 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, a closed sea under international law. See our webpage for further information. Quality health care in Nicaragua can be significantly less than half of what you would pay in the U.S. One expat said he paid $300 for a colonoscopy, without insurance. Drink only purified bottled water. If you ever dreamed of retiring to an elegant city, where you can feel safe, and live in a beautiful colonial home then Granada, Nicaragua may be the place for you. We feel safe, we feel free to walk around and enjoy the outdoor bars and restaurants, and we feel safe in our homes and businesses. To varying degrees, each strives to reduce or eliminate the inconveniences of living in a Third World Country (such as not having reliable high-speed Internet, electricity, etc.) Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or, limited financial support in cases of destitution. Authorities have ignored or significantly delayed implementing judicial orders to release, deport, expel, or transfer prisoners. Police forces are limited throughout the country and extremely scarce outside of major urban areas. U.S. citizens have drowned at Nicaraguan beaches, lagoons, and lakes. They have lived there for 10 years. Keep careful when you’re swimming even on the more secluded beaches. If you must or want to live in the capital city of Managua, and you don’t own your place, US$1,300 won’t be enough to cover rent and living expenses. Gallagher said, "The best measure would be how we feel. Beach Safety: Exercise caution at the beach. Traffic Stops: Transit police often stop those in rental cars and with foreign license plates. If you are at a coastal area when an earthquake occurs, move swiftly to higher ground (when safe to do so) to avoid possible tsunamis. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. Demonstrations or strikes may occur throughout the country; in the past, these have turned violent. Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. Here's what they told us. Horse carts, livestock, and pedestrians crossing roads in front of oncoming traffic are common, even on major roads in the main cities. Read More : Granada, Nicaragua Upper respiratory viruses (e.g. The city is very spread out and it's difficult to walk anywhere. by providing their own, while still offering the benefits of living in Nicaragua, including beautiful beaches, low cost of living, lots of sunshine, etc. So I put together this guide … Tourist card at airport. Nicaraguan customs officials routinely delay or block import of goods, including items intended for donation. Travelers have also been arrested at the airport for political reasons while attempting to leave the country. Even with health insurance, most care providers overseas require cash payments prior to providing service. Km 5 ½ Carretera Sur But, once you get to know this warm, beautiful, safe and affordable country, you might just fall … Assistance visit organized by NGOs, religious groups, schools, or any other group doing this type of work in Nicaragua. Lifeguards and rescue equipment are not readily available. Petty street crime is common in Managua, Puerto Cabezas, Bluefields, San Juan del Sur, Popoyo, El Transito, and the Corn Islands. To report mistreatment by police, email a complaint to. Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites. There are reports of increases in crime in Nicaragua since April 2018. Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad. Exercise caution while traveling. International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (. Nicaragua has a coastline on the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean. Nicaraguan law requires tourists hire a local guide for several volcanoes, including the two volcanoes on Ometepe Island (Maderas and Concepcion). Government hospitals are understaffed and some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies. That said, there is no debate on Nicaragua’s current status as a nation at peace. In Nicaragua, the cost to hire someone for housekeeping, gardening or even fixing your car will be, by North American standards, extremely cheap. Nicaragua is one of Latin America’s poorest countries and suffers from high unemployment rates and a large external debt. The government and its affiliated groups have been reported to: Travelers should exercise increased caution and be alert to the risks of crime, including violent crimes such as sexual assault and armed robbery. Traffic Laws: If you are involved in a traffic accident, you must wait for the police and insurance company representatives to arrive. Depending on your length of stay, you may not be able to recover your license in a timely manner. Customs Regulations: U.S. citizens planning to import items should contract a recognized local customs broker for assistance well in advance of their visit. Before excavating archaeological materials or buying historical artifacts, you must consult with the. If transit police demand a bribe in lieu of a fine, request a receipt and the officerâs name and badge number. How Safe Is Nicaragua? Purchasing Property: Exercise extreme caution before investing in property. But, there is a high violent crime rate. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Hiking in volcanic or remote areas is dangerous. Do not attempt to drive through crowds, barricades, or roadblocks. The Caribbean Coastâs geographical isolation further limits the Embassyâs ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens living or visiting the area. Nicaragua can be characterized by its agricultural economy, its history of autocratic government, and its imbalance of regional development—almost all settlement and economic activity are concentrated in the western half of the country. The majority of Nicaraguans live in poverty. Accelerate the cultural transition. Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to crime. The expats who choose to live there do because they believe in a future where individuals can make a difference and that Granada Nicaragua can help shape that difference. Carry sufficient food, water, and communication equipment. Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and available for a quick departure from the country, if needed. If you are planning to bring vehicles or household goods, consult. If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health's Pharmacy Department to ensure the medication is legal. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. These regulations also apply to drivers in rental vehicles. Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to COVID-19, limited healthcare availability, and arbitrary enforcement of laws. Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). The legal system operates arbitrarily, which can result in prolonged detentions of U.S. citizens without charges or due process, often for political reasons. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message. Armed individuals have taken over privately owned land. Do not move your vehicle, unless a police officer tells you to do so, or you will be legally liable for the accident. If you are detained, ask police or prison officials and friends or family to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. These protests were severely repressed by the police resulting in 63 deaths. Only basic, limited emergency medical services are available outside Managua. For those interested in getting in before everyone else does, here is where to live in Nicaragua with the best to offer North Americans hoping to relocate. These estimates are currently based on just a small amount of data. If you use a passport of a different nationality than you did on prior trips to Nicaragua, Nicaraguan authorities may deny you entry. Tap water is not reliably potable. Nicaraguan law requires that police take a driver into custody for: The minimum detention period is 48 hours. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Nicaraguaâs Sovereign Security Law and its Terrorism and Money Laundering law allow for discretionary interpretation of unlawful activities that threaten the peace and economic stability of Nicaragua. Throughout Nicaragua, government officials and law enforcement continue to target those opposed to the rule of President Ortega. It’s not mandatory, but those who’ve retired in Nicaragua … Physicians and hospital personnel frequently do not speak English. Road travel after dark is hazardous in all areas. Please visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on entry/exit requirements related to COVID-19 in Nicaragua. Road signs throughout the country are limited or non-existent. Please see Fact Sheet for this country/area. While there is petty theft throughout the area just as you would fine in practically every area of the world, more serious crimes are very rare and seldom ever an issue at all. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Nicaragua. I love the people, I love the culture and basically everything about it. Updated December 31, 2019. International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI page for information. At the time of publication, the author held no positions in the stocks mentioned. What Cobb says he offers is a complete, self-contained community with a feel akin to 1950s Americana that he says is now lacking in North America, only much cheaper, with all the modern conveniences, and right on the ocean, golf course included. No (90 days or fewer). Managua is the capital and biggest city. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Heed the warning signs you see indicating where the currents are particularly swift. Nicaragua is currently experiencing a political crisis, after the reform of the social security law, students and other sectors raised in protest in the main cities of Nicaragua. Prevent certain individuals from departing Nicaragua by air or land for political reasons. Weather Alert: U. S. Embassy Managua, Nicaragua (November 13, 2020) Safety & Security Messages Message for U.S. Citizens: Availability of COVID-19 Testing (January 19, 2021) During the rainy season, roads may become flooded or have additional damage. Public Transportation: Buses, moto-taxis, and ferries often lack proper safety equipment. Yet today Nicaragua boasts the title of being the safest country in Central America and is making a comeback. Housing will be somewhere in the middle. Read the Department of Stateâs COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. Poor infrastructure in parts of the country limits the Embassyâs ability to assist U.S. citizens in emergencies. While Nicaraguan law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities, in practice such discrimination is widespread in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of state services. Frank Martinez, a native-born Nicaraguan who lived and worked in the U.S. for many years and is now back in Nicaragua told us that, in the 1980s, many Nicaraguans went to live in the U.S. and had children there, and "that changed the whole perspective of 'Gringo, go home' into 'Welcome home, Gringo.
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