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Visitor & short-stay visas

Nicaraguan Transit visa

Short authorisation to pass through Nicaragua en route to another destination, required for certain nationalities.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Existence and exact conditions of a distinct transit visa (fee, validity) were not confirmable on a machine-readable official page; verify with the DGME before relying on this route.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Nicaragua government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Visa de tránsito
Route type
Transit authorisation
Maximum stay
5 days
Ley 761, Art. 21 — maximum authorised stay for foreigners in transit through the national territory.
Validity
5 days
Ley 761, Art. 100 — the transit visa (visa 'De Tránsito') is valid for five days; consulted transit visas are likewise five days (Art. 101).
Purpose
Onward passage to a third country
Art. 100 — valid to transit Nicaraguan territory for the purpose of travelling on to another country.
Issuing authority
Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME)
Art. 92 & Art. 102 — DGME is the sole body authorised to grant and issue transit (consulted) visas.
Where to apply
Nicaraguan consulate/embassy, forwarded to DGME
Art. 102 — consular posts receive requests and forward them via the Consular Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to DGME for decision.
Cost
Statutory fee under the migration arancel
The official migration fee schedule (arancel) lists a charge for 'Visa de Tránsito a Extranjeros'; the exact current amount should be confirmed with DGME (see review flag).

Who it is for

  • Travellers transiting Nicaragua whose nationality requires prior authorisation.
  • Those not eligible for visa-free entry but only passing through.

How to apply

  • Check your nationality category before travel.
  • Apply through the DGME / Nicaraguan consulate where a transit visa is required.
  • Carry evidence of onward travel.

Requirements

  • A transit visa authorises you only to pass through Nicaraguan territory on the way to another country; the maximum authorised transit stay is five days (Ley 761, Art. 21).
  • Whether you need one depends on nationality: nationals of restricted ('consulted') countries must obtain a consulted transit visa granted by DGME, while others transit under the ordinary entry rules for their passport.
  • Your passport, or a travel document Nicaragua recognises, must be valid for more than six months (Art. 107).
  • You must enter and leave only through an authorised (habilitado) border post and clear migration inspection (Art. 106-107).
  • You must be able to demonstrate sufficient means to support yourself during the transit and to leave the country, if the migration officer requires it (Art. 20).
  • You should be travelling onward to a third country and able to evidence that onward journey.

Documents you may need

  • Passport (or a travel document Nicaragua recognises) valid for more than six months.
  • Completed entry/transit request form.
  • Copy of the passport / travel document (and any travel permit) for each applicant.
  • Evidence of onward travel to your destination country (tickets or itinerary showing you are transiting).
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover the transit period.
  • A valid visa for your final destination country, where that country requires one.

Frequently asked questions

  • The law caps the authorised transit stay at five days (Ley 761, Art. 21), and the transit visa itself is valid for five days (Art. 100). It is intended only for passing through on the way to another country, not for a longer visit.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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