Local Laws

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled or imprisoned.  You should know that we are limited in what we can do to assist detainees, and your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or imprisonment.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Nicaragua are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.  Marijuana remains illegal in Nicaragua, even with a prescription.  Possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana can yield a prison sentence of 6 months to 3 years, while more than 20 grams can yield a 5 to 15-year prison sentence.

Nicaragua has recently implemented new laws protecting women and children. Penalties for domestic violence, psychological abuse, and non-payment of child support are also very severe and interpreted broadly.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  Nicaraguan authorities do not always notify us when a U.S. citizen has been detained, especially if the arrestee has dual nationality.  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials and friends or family to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  Even after we have been notified, several days often pass before we receive permission from Nicaraguan authorities to visit imprisoned U.S. citizens. See our webpage for further information.

Nicaraguan Legal and Penal Systems:  Despite rights of due process under Nicaraguan law, in practice, the legal, judicial, immigration, and penal systems often operate in an arbitrary manner, subject to corruption and political influence.  It is difficult to predict how the local legal system will function in any particular case, which can result in prolonged detentions of U.S. citizens without charges or due process.  

In many instances, police and prison authorities have ignored or significantly delayed implementing judicial orders to release, deport, expel or transfer prisoners.  Detainees may be held for long periods without being charged.

The Embassy cannot provide legal advice, represent you, get you out of jail, or provide funds for legal assistance.  If you are detained or experience any legal issue while overseas, you must hire a local attorney.  You should be aware that civil disputes can become criminal in nature.  Several U.S. citizens in Nicaragua have reported being arrested or threatened with arrest in property disputes, for example.

Purchasing Property:  Exercise extreme caution before committing to invest in property in Nicaragua.  The country’s weak judicial system, land titling issues, and corruption create serious challenges to purchasing and using property in Nicaragua; several U.S. citizens have reported arrest threats or actual arrests as a result of property disputes.  Potential investors should engage competent local legal representation and investigate their purchases thoroughly in order to reduce the possibility of property disputes.

Environmental Concerns:  Strong currents off sections of Nicaragua's Pacific Coast have resulted in a number of drownings. Powerful waves have caused broken bones, and stingray injuries are not uncommon at popular beaches.  Warning signs are not posted, and lifeguards and rescue equipment are not readily available.  If you visit Nicaragua's beaches, exercise appropriate caution.

Hiking in volcanic or remote areas is dangerous.  Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear and carry sufficient food, water, and communication equipment.  Individuals who travel to remote areas are encouraged to hire a reputable local guide familiar with the terrain and area. The law requires hiring a local guide if you plan to hike Volcan Maderas and/or Volcan Concepcion on Ometepe Island. Hikers have been lost or perished on these volcanoes, as the terrain is treacherous.

Volcanic activity recently increased.  In 2015, increased seismic activity occurred at Volcan Telica, Volcan Concepcion on Ometepe Island in Lake Nicaragua, Volcan Momotombo, and Volcan Masaya.

Disaster Preparedness:  Nicaragua is prone to a wide variety of natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic eruptions.  If you are at a beach area when an earthquake occurs, move swiftly to higher ground (when safe to do so) to avoid any possible tsunami.

In the event of an earthquake, volcanic eruption, or other potential natural disaster, U.S. citizens should pay close attention to local media reports, follow the guidance of local authorities, and monitor the websites of the Nicaraguan Institute for Territorial Studies (INETER) and the Nicaraguan Emergency Alert System (SINAPRED).

General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Customs Regulations:  All U.S. citizens, including mission/aid groups trying to import supplies/donations, should contract well in advance of their visit with a recognized local customs broker for assistance; we are unable to assist with the customs or import process.

In order to import medicine, even for donation to charity, you need the approval of the Ministry of Health’s Pharmacy Department.  

We have received many reports of Nicaraguan customs officials delaying, and sometimes blocking, release of medicines and other items, even those intended for donation. 

Before excavating archaeological materials or agreeing to buy artifacts of historical value, you should consult with the National Patrimony Directorate of the Nicaraguan Institute of Culture. Otherwise, severe criminal penalties may apply.

If you are planning to stay in Nicaragua for an extended period and will bring vehicles or household goods, consult Nicaraguan customs officials prior to shipment.

Please see our Customs Information for additional information. 

Filming or Photographing in the Area of the Proposed Canal:  There have been several reports in the press of journalists or foreigners detained and/or deported for reporting on the proposed canal.  For questions about freedom of speech, expression, and press, please refer to the State Department’s Human Rights Report for Nicaragua.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Nicaragua.  While violence against LGBTI travelers is not common, widespread societal discrimination exists.  See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details.

Persons with Mobility Issues:  Accessibility and accommodation for people with mobility issues is a challenge.  There is limited to no accessibility in public transportation, including few sidewalks and road crossings.  

Nicaraguan law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities, but in practice, such discrimination is widespread in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of state services.

Retired Residents Law:  Nicaragua promotes residency for retirees. Retirees can apply for residency through the Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism, INTUR.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for Women Travelers.