Nicaragua Passport Visa Free Countries (2026)

Nicaraguan passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 129 countries and territories.

This facilitates travel to various destinations across Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania.

Visa-Free Access: Nicaraguan citizens can travel without a visa to 93 countries. This includes nations such as Argentina, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and all member states of the European Union.

Visa on Arrival: Additionally, there are 33 countries where Nicaraguan passport holders can obtain a visa upon arrival. Examples include Bangladesh, Bolivia, and the Maldives.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Some countries require Nicaraguan travelers to obtain an eTA before arrival. Notable examples are Kenya, South Korea, and the United Kingdom.

Please note that visa requirements can change, and it’s essential to verify the current entry regulations of your destination before traveling.

What Countries Do Nicaraguan Citizens Need A Visa For?

Nicaraguan citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 129 countries and territories. However, for certain destinations, obtaining a visa prior to travel is mandatory. Notable countries requiring Nicaraguan citizens to secure a visa in advance include:

United States: A visa is required for entry.
Canada: A visa is required for entry.
China: A visa is required for entry.
India: A visa is required for entry.
Australia: A visa is required for entry.
Japan: A visa is required for entry.
South Africa: A visa is required for entry.
New Zealand: A visa is required for entry.
Mexico: A visa is required for entry.
Thailand: A visa is required for entry.

Additionally, while Nicaraguan citizens currently have visa-free access to Schengen Area countries in Europe for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period), it’s important to note that the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is scheduled to be implemented in late 2025. Once active, Nicaraguan travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before visiting Schengen countries. This is not a visa but a travel authorization valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Visa requirements can change, so it’s essential to consult the official government or embassy websites of your destination country before planning your travel. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information and can make the necessary arrangements for a smooth journey.

Do Nicaraguans Need Visa For America?

Yes, Nicaraguans need a visa to travel to the United States. They must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa for tourism or business purposes unless they qualify for a special program.

Visa Options for Nicaraguans:

B1/B2 Visa – For tourism, business, and short-term visits.
F-1 Visa – For students studying in the U.S.
H-2A/H-2B Visa – For temporary agricultural or non-agricultural workers.
Diversity Visa Lottery (Green Card Lottery) – Nicaraguans are eligible to apply.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) – Some Nicaraguans may qualify based on U.S. immigration policies.
CA-4 Agreement (Not for U.S.) – This allows visa-free travel within Central America (Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua), but not for the U.S.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Nicaragua is not part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), so Nicaraguan citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to the U.S.

If you’re planning to visit the U.S., you should apply for the appropriate visa at the U.S. Embassy in Managua and complete the DS-160 application.

Do Nicaraguans Need Visa For Europe?

Yes, Nicaraguan citizens can travel to the Schengen Area in Europe visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. However, starting in mid-2025, Nicaraguans will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before traveling. ETIAS is not a visa but a travel authorization that will be required for entry.

For longer stays, such as work, study, or residence, Nicaraguans must apply for a visa from the specific European country they intend to stay in

Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For Nicaraguan Passport Holders?

Nicaraguan passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in the following countries:

Africa:

Benin
Burundi
Cape Verde
Comoros
Djibouti
Egypt
Guinea-Bissau
Madagascar
Malawi
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mozambique
Namibia
Rwanda
Seychelles
Somalia
Tanzania
Togo
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe

Asia:

Armenia
Bangladesh
Cambodia
Iran
Jordan
Laos
Macau
Maldives
Nepal
Sri Lanka

Oceania:

Palau
Samoa
Timor-Leste
Tuvalu

North America:

Saint Lucia

South America:

Bolivia

Please note that visa requirements can change, and it’s advisable to check the latest information from official government sources or the embassy of your destination country before traveling.

Traveling To Australia For Nicaraguan Passport Holders?

Australia is a popular destination for travelers worldwide due to its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and high quality of life. However, traveling from Nicaragua to Australia requires careful planning, especially regarding visa requirements, travel restrictions, and essential preparations.

1. Visa Requirements for Nicaraguan Passport Holders

Nicaraguan passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Australia, as Nicaragua is not part of Australia’s Visa Waiver Program. Travelers can apply for different types of visas depending on the purpose of their visit:

A. Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

This visa is suitable for tourists, family visits, or short-term business purposes. It allows stays of up to three, six, or twelve months and can be granted for single or multiple entries.

Processing Time: Varies but typically takes 15–30 days
Cost: Around AUD 150–370

B. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (Subclass 601) – NOT Available for Nicaraguans

Some nationalities can apply for the ETA, which is a quick online visa. However, Nicaraguan passport holders are not eligible and must apply for a Visitor Visa instead.

C. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

For Nicaraguan students planning to study in Australia for more than three months, a Student Visa is required. This visa allows full-time study and part-time work rights.

Processing Time: Around 4–6 weeks
Cost: Starts at AUD 710

D. Work and Skilled Visas

If you intend to work in Australia, you must apply for a work visa, such as the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) or a Skilled Migration Visa. These visas require employer sponsorship or meeting Australia’s skilled migration criteria.

2. How to Apply for an Australian Visa

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You will need:

A valid Nicaraguan passport (valid for at least six months from arrival date)
Visa application form (completed online via the Australian Immigration Website)
Recent passport-sized photo
Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, income proof)
Travel itinerary (flight and accommodation details)
Health insurance (especially for long-term stays)
Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

Apply through ImmiAccount on the official website.
Pay the visa fee online.
Upload all necessary documents.

Step 3: Attend a Biometrics and Health Check (if required)

Some applicants may need to submit biometric data (fingerprints) or undergo a medical examination at an approved clinic.

Step 4: Wait for Visa Decision

Once submitted, you will receive a notification via email regarding your visa approval or additional requirements.

3. Entry Requirements and COVID-19 Regulations

Before boarding a flight to Australia, check the latest travel requirements:

Valid visa approval
COVID-19 requirements (Vaccination proof or quarantine, if applicable)
Customs declarations (Certain items like food and medicines must be declared)

To check the latest travel updates, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

4. Flight Options from Nicaragua to Australia

There are no direct flights from Nicaragua to Australia. Travelers will typically fly via:

Managua (MGA) → Mexico City (MEX) → Sydney (SYD)
Managua (MGA) → Miami (MIA) → Los Angeles (LAX) → Sydney (SYD)
Managua (MGA) → Panama City (PTY) → Dubai (DXB) → Melbourne (MEL)

Flights take 24–40 hours, depending on layovers.

5. Cost of Travel and Budgeting

Estimated budget for a 2-week trip to Australia from Nicaragua:

Expense	Estimated Cost (USD)
Flight (Roundtrip)	$1,500–$2,500
Visa Fees	$100–$500
Accommodation (2 weeks)	$1,000–$2,500
Food	$400–$800
Transport (Local)	$100–$300
Attractions/Activities	$300–$700
Travel Insurance	$50–$150
Total Estimated Cost	$3,500–$7,500

6. Best Time to Visit Australia

Australia has different climates across regions. The best time to visit depends on the destination:

Sydney & Melbourne: September–November (Spring) or March–May (Autumn)
Great Barrier Reef (Cairns): May–October (Dry Season)
Perth & Adelaide: October–April (Warm and Sunny)

Avoid the peak Christmas season (December–January) as flights and accommodations are expensive.

7. Currency and Payment Methods

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD) (1 AUD ≈ 24 NIO)
Exchange Money: Recommended at banks or official exchange offices.
Credit/Debit Cards: Widely accepted (Visa/Mastercard preferred).
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants and taxis.

8. Safety and Travel Tips

Stay Aware of Wildlife: Some regions have dangerous animals like snakes, spiders, and jellyfish.
Follow Local Laws: Australia has strict laws on drug use, quarantine regulations, and driving rules.
Public Transport: Efficient in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Emergency Number: Dial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance.
Cultural Etiquette: Australians are friendly; politeness and respect go a long way.

Traveling to Australia as a Nicaraguan passport holder requires obtaining the correct visa, booking long-haul flights, and preparing a travel budget. With proper planning, you can enjoy Australia’s stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cities. Always check the latest travel regulations before departure to ensure a smooth journey

Conclusion

Visa requirements can change, so it’s essential to consult the official government or embassy websites of your destination country before planning your travel.