Nicaragua, like any country, has areas with higher crime rates–especially in larger cities like Managua. The country is generally safe for tourists, however, with many visitors enjoying its natural beauty, beaches, and colonial cities. We recommend taking the same precautions you would in any large city–especially at night, and staying updated on political and social situations. For day-to-day life, many expats enjoy the low cost of living and friendly communities. Learn more about what it’s really like to live in Nicaragua here.

NICARAGUA’S INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL DESTINATION FEATURES

The cost of living in Nicaragua varies greatly by region. On average, monthly expenses for a single person range from $500 to $1,200, depending on lifestyle and location. Housing, food and entertainment, and transportation are also affordable, especially outside of the major cities. Rent for a basic apartment can be as low as $200, while utilities and groceries are also relatively inexpensive. Products that are local to the country are notably more affordable than comparable products in other places in the world–such as tropical fruit, meat products, and their infamous Flor de Caña rum.

Learn what the best cities are for expats in Nicaragua. MOVING TO PARADISE: HERE IS A BREAKDOWN OF LIVING COST FROM MODEST TO HIGH-END LIFESTYLE

Foreigners can legally purchase property in Nicaragua, but it’s important to keep in mind Nicaragua’s property ownership laws, land title verification, and that the notary public plays a crucial role in the transfer of property.

Get caught up on the latest developments of these factors and more in our step-by-step guide to buying property in Nicaragua.

Yes, when you buy real estate in Nicaragua, you receive a title deed (Escritura Pública de Compraventa), which is legally registered in the Public Registry (Registro Público de la Propiedad). This title confirms your ownership rights. Foreigners have the same property rights as Nicaraguans, except in certain border areas where restrictions apply.Title insurance is available but not mandatory.

100% Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a reputable lawyer when buying real estate in Nicaragua. While it is not legally required, a real estate attorney can help you avoid legal issues, ensure a smooth transaction and protect your interest.

1. Passport (Valid for at least 6 months)
2. Second form of ID (Driver’s license or national ID, if applicable)
3. Bank Statements (Last 3-6 months, especially if using financing)
4. Proof of Funds (A letter from your bank confirming you have sufficient funds)
5. Escrow Account Information (If using escrow services for payment)
6. Foreign Exchange Documents (If transferring large amounts internationally)
7. Check international transfer limits with your bank
8. Ensure documents in your home country are notarized and apostilled (if required)
9. Bring extra copies of key documents (physical and digital)
10. Long Form Birth Certificate
11. Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

Yes, you can use an escrow service to buy property in Nicaragua, but escrow services are not as common as in the U.S. or Canada. However, some law firms and international escrow companies offer this service to foreign buyers. Escrow is mostly used for transactions in the area of San Juan del Sur, Tola and Granada.

Engaging a reputable law firm and utilizing established escrow services are essential steps to ensure a secure and legally compliant property purchase in Nicaragua.​ Escrow services typically charge a fee between $400/$500 and up to 1% of the purchase price.

Yes, but it is very limited. Bank financing for foreigners in Nicaragua is not as accessible as in other countries, and most real estate transactions are done in cash or through private financing. Getting a local bank mortgage as a foreigner is difficult due to high interest rates and strict requirements. However, seller financing and developer financing are available alternatives.

View our 10 reasons to become resident in nicaragua

Yes, you can get home insurance in Nicaragua. Many local and international insurance companies offer coverage for homes, vacation properties, and rental investments. Here some home insurances available

1. Basic Home Insurance – Covers damages caused by fire, earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters.
2. Extended Home Insurance – Includes protection against theft, vandalism, and liability for accidents on the property.
3. Rental Property Insurance – Ideal for investors and vacation home owners; may cover loss of rental income due to property damage.

The time it takes to close a property transaction in Nicaragua is 30 to 60 days, this can vary based on the complexity of the sale. It’s important to work with an experienced real estate lawyer throughout the process to ensure everything is handled efficiently and legally.

You do not need to be physically present in Nicaragua to close on your property. By using a Power of Attorney and working with a lawyer, you can complete the process remotely. If you’re planning to use a POA, make sure to have a reliable representative and ensure that all legal steps are properly followed. Learn More here

Closing is not the last step on buying real estate but you are more than half way through at this point.Once you’ve closed on your property, there are a few important steps to finalize the process and ensure everything is legally secure. Here’s what you need to do next:

1. Register the Property Under Your Name or Corporation.
2. Pay Transfer Taxes & Fees.
3. Get Your Property Deed (Escritura Pública).
4. Pay Annual Property Taxes.
5. Set Up Utilities & Services.
6. Get Home Insurance (Optional but Recommended).
7. Consider Residency (If Planning to Stay Long-Term).
8. Plan for Property Management & Rental Income.

Summary of Property Taxes in Nicaragua

To ensure your property investment in Nicaragua is well-managed and profitable, it’s important to engage with reputable property management services and adopt effective rental strategies, handle tenant relations, and oversee financial aspects. We will walk you through these steps and recommend the top notch property management and rental services in the area according to your expectations.

Nicaragua is an ideal destination for affordable living, rich culture, and diverse lifestyles. Granada charms with its colonial beauty and an active expat scene, while San Juan del Sur and Popoyo are perfect for beach lovers. León offers history and culture, and Managua provides modern amenities!

View the best cities for expats in Nicaragua.

Whether you need a visa to travel to Nicaragua depends on your nationality–we recommend checking with Nicaraguan authorities for the latest requirements. Citizens from many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and most European nations can enter Nicaragua without a visa for stays up to 90 days. Note: Nicaragua doesn’t require vaccination proof or PCR (covid tes) to enter the country.

Uncover the top 10 activities to do in Nicaragua. A COMPLETE TRAVELLING GUIDE TO NICARAGUA.

Yes, becoming a resident in Nicaragua is relatively easy compared to many other countries. The process is straightforward if you meet the requirements, have the necessary documents, and follow the proper steps.
Here’s what makes it easy:

1. Multiple residency options (Investor, Retiree, Rentista, Work Visa, etc.)
2. Low financial requirements (Minimum $1,000-$1,250 USD/month for retirees and passive income earners)
3. No strict language or citizenship tests
4. Fast processing time (Most applications take 2-6 months)
5. Dual citizenship is allowed (for many nationalities)View our 10 reasons to become resident in nicaragua

No, there are no major pet restrictions when moving to Nicaragua, but you must follow import regulations for a smooth entry. You can bring dogs, cats, and other pets, but certain documentation and procedures are required. There is no strict limit on the number of pets, but bringing more than 3-5 pets may require additional permits. Here are the requirements to bring pets to Nicaragua.

1. Vet Health Certificate (Issued 7-10 days before travel & endorsed by government)
2. Up-to-date Vaccinations (Rabies + other core vaccines)
3. Import Permit (May be required, check with MAGFOR)
4. Airline & Customs Compliance (Varies by airline)
5. No strict pet bans, but exotic pets need approval

When traveling to Nicaragua, certain items are restricted or prohibited by customs authorities. Below is a breakdown of what you cannot bring and what requires special permits to avoid fines or confiscation.You CANNOT bring the following items into Nicaragua:

1. Drugs & Narcotics – Includes marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and other illegal substances (even if legal in your home country)
2. Firearms & Ammunition (without special permits)
3. Explosives & Fireworks
4. Obscene or Pornographic Material
5. Counterfeit Money & Fake Goods
6. Toxic Chemicals & Hazardous Materials (certain pesticides, industrial chemicals, etc.)
7. You MAY bring these items, but you need a permit from Nicaraguan authorities
8. Drones – Requires approval from the Nicaraguan Civil Aviation Authority
9. Large Amounts of Cash – Amounts over $10,000 USD must be declared
10. Pharmaceuticals & Medications – Certain prescription drugs require a doctor’s note and approval from the Ministry of Health (MINSA)
11. Plants, Seeds & Fresh Food – Needs approval from MAGFOR (Ministry of Agriculture) to prevent disease spread
12. Exotic Animals & Wildlife Products – Must comply with CITES regulations and get approval from MAGFOR.
    Bringing a drone without permission can result in seizure or fines.

Nicaragua’s healthcare system is a mix of public and private services. The government provides free or low-cost healthcare through the Ministry of Health (MINSA), focusing on primary care. Private healthcare is available predominantly in the capital for a higher cost out of pocket, or through their exclusive insurance plans. Access to care varies, especially in rural areas. Learn what it’s like to build a life in Nicaragua here.

HEALTH CARE SYSTEM IN NICARAGUA.

Nicaragua’s official currency is the Córdoba (NIO), but US dollars (USD) are widely accepted in most businesses, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. Many real estate transactions and large purchases are also conducted in USD. However, it’s recommended to carry some Córdobas for small purchases in local markets or rural areas. Exchange rates vary, so checking the current rate before exchanging money is advisable.

It depends on the season and time of arrival. Peñas Blancas (Main Border, Pacific Side) usually takes 1–3 hours (average) and 4+ hours during peak travel times (December–April, holidays, and weekends). Also we recommend avoiding the hours when traveling buses are crossing the border.

Internet connectivity in Nicaragua can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas, with slower speeds and occasional outages. In urban centers like Managua, infrastructure is more reliable. Remote workers may need to invest in mobile hotspots, satellite-based or fiber-optic services for better stability, depending on their location.

Nicaragua offers vibrant activities like hiking the Masaya Volcano, surfing in San Juan del Sur or Popoyo, exploring the historic city of Granada or Léon, and visiting the Isletas de Granada. For a Caribbean experience, the Corn Islands offer white sand and coral reefs, and for a metropolitan experience, its capital, Managua, offers faster paced life.

Read about the top 10 activities to do in Nicaragua.

Nicaragua has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with coastal areas being hotter and more humid, and higher altitudes cooler and fresher.

Nicaragua offers a variety of schooling options, including PUBLIC SCHOOLS that are free and managed by the Ministry of Education. They are available from preschool through high school and are predominantly in Spanish. There are also Private schools, international schools, and homeschooling available. Want to know the Pros and Cons of school options and the requirements for international students in Nicaragua?

Read If I have kids what are my school options in Nicaragua.

The surf season in the South Pacific of Nicaragua is divided into two main periods: Prime Surf Season (March–October): This is the best time for consistent waves, as Nicaragua receives strong south and southwest swells from the Southern Hemisphere. Offshore winds, powered by Lake Nicaragua, create clean and well-shaped waves nearly every day. This season is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.

Off-Season (November–February): Waves are smaller and more mellow, making it a great time for beginners and longboarders. Swells are less frequent, but there are still fun waves to be found, especially at beach breaks.The region benefits from 300+ days of offshore winds annually, making it one of the most consistent surf destinations in the world. Want to catch the best waves?

View SURF LIFESTYLE IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC OF NICARAGUA.

Yes! Organic and vegan products are available in Nicaragua, especially in cities like Managua, San Juan del Sur, Granada, and León. While large supermarket chains carry some options, local markets, specialty stores, and health food shops offer the best variety. Supermarket and stores like La Colonia & Pricesmart (Major supermarkets with some organic products), Orgánica Nicaragua, Naturaleza, Piccolo Organico, Balance Market and Nuve Nicaragua (Health stores in Managua with vegan and organic items), Bistro Café & BioMercado (Granada – Organic food and specialty items) Nica Natural Market (San Juan del Sur – Organic and vegan-friendly store), Naturiva, Elixir Center, farmers market and organic farms like Finca Las Nubes, Yocate farm and Caja Organica in popoyo.

Yes! There are multiple shipping options to Nicaragua for packages, documents, and even freight shipments. You can use international couriers, freight services, and local cargo companies to send items to Nicaragua from the U.S., Canada, Europe, and other countries.

It depends! You can find most household essentials in Nicaragua, but importing may be worth it if you want higher quality or specific brands. Appliances (Fridges, Stoves, Washers, Grill etc.) Available in stores like La Curacao, SINSA, El Gallo Mas Gallo, and PriceSmart, SIMAN. Most of these stores offer free delivery services.
Bedding & Mattresses – Local and imported options at Dormimundo, Prado, Walmart and Sleep Gallery.

Furniture & Home Decor – Found in SIMAN, and specialty stores like FULL HOME, MODERNIKA, TIENDA O NICARAGUA, MASAYA & CO.
Small Appliances (Blenders, Coffee Makers, etc.) – Available in department stores and Mercado Oriental (Managua’s largest market).
Note: If you’re moving under a pensionado (retiree) residency, you can import household goods tax-free!

Yes! Foreigners can buy a car in Nicaragua whether they are residents or tourists. However, the process and requirements vary depending on your residency status.

View our 10 reasons to become resident in nicaragua