International Moving Services To Nicaragua

Moving to Nicaragua from the USA can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it can become a smooth and seamless process. To ensure a hassle-free relocation, there are several steps you need to take well in advance of the move. You’ll need to research the country’s culture, customs, and laws, as well as the specific requirements for obtaining visas and other necessary documents. Additionally, you’ll need to thoroughly plan your finances, including setting up a bank account and transferring funds, as well as researching the cost of living and budgeting accordingly. It’s also essential to find a reputable international moving company and arrange for the shipment of your belongings well before your departure date.

Moving to Nicaragua from USA

Sitting between Honduras and Costa Rica, Nicaragua is the largest country along the Central American isthmus. Its proximity to the Equator gives the nation a tropical climate, with the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Nicaragua’s official language is Spanish, but it features a decent variety of ethnicities, resulting in an assortment of religions.

Agriculture and textiles combine to make up about 50 percent of Nicaragua’s exports, including coffee, gold, sugar, peanuts, tobacco, cotton and beef. In fact, over half of these exports travel to the United States. Tourism is also a big industry in Nicaragua, specifically colonial cities such as Leon and Granada.

Managua, however, is the country’s most significant cultural and industrial center. The capital city is also the main hub for Nicaragua’s politics, education and economy. Managua features the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, which is Nicaragua’s primary international gateway.

Customs Regulations for Nicaragua

Since there are so many important documents needed to clear customs in Nicaragua, you may want to consult a customs brokering service for your international move to help get your paperwork organized.

  • Passport (copy or original, must include all pages except blank)
  • Residence visa
  • Import permit (household goods and personal effects)
  • Work permit
  • Certificate of residence
  • Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
  • Full inventory (original copy)
    • Must be in English or Spanish
    • Must be typed
    • Must include brand name, price and serial number for all appliances and electronic devices
  • Purchase invoices for all new items -must be attached to inventory, notarized by origin consulate
  • Letter of authorization for destination agent to clear shipment

Nicaragua has certain rules for the import of household goods and personal effects, which includes furniture, bedding, linens, rugs, dishes, etc.

  • Shipper must be present for customs clearance
  • Duty-free entry permitted if you are working under contract for the Nicaraguan government OR if you are an accredited diplomat/foreign retiree
  • Extra charges are billed directly to shipper -includes demurrages of container at the port and abandonment fines (lack of documents)
  • All household goods and personal effects subject to duties and taxes (some exceptions apply)

When importing items into Nicaragua, some goods are limited to specific quantities. Also, certain goods require special authorization for import, while others are subject to duties and specific taxes to clear customs. These items should be packed and declared separately on the inventory. This includes but is not limited to:

  • New items -require original receipt/invoice
  • Personal firearms and hunting rifles -require Import License
  • Radio and telephone equipment
  • Animal and agricultural products -require permits
  • Alcohol, tobacco and food -require permits if shipped in large quantities
    • Alcohol -limited to 3 liters
    • Tobacco -limited to 500 grams
    • Cigarettes -limited to 200

Nicaragua prohibits the import of the following items under any circumstances:

  • Illegal drugs and narcotics
  • Explosives
  • Assault weapons -swords, knuckledusters, etc.
  • Gunpowder
  • Ammunition
  • Toluene
  • Chemicals
  • Pornographic and subversive materials -includes films, literature, etc.

To ship your vehicle to Nicaragua, you need an experienced and dependable international automobile shipping company. International Sea & Air Shipping has a vast knowledge of overseas automobile transport, as well as shipping laws and customs regulations.
Here are the required documents for importing your vehicle to Nicaragua:

  • Original title and registration
  • Certification from Nicaraguan Consulate in origin country
  • Original commercial/purchase invoice
  • Original Bill of Lading

There are also several regulations when importing an automobile into Nicaragua.

  • New and used automobiles permitted (amount paid varies based on vehicle’s model, year, size and accessories)
  • Diplomatic personnel eligible for duty-free vehicle import
  • Vehicles subject to heavy taxes by treasury department
  • Documents must indicate automobile’s make, model, year and engine capacity
  • Vehicles more than 10 years old prohibited unless:
    • Shipper is returning native Nicaraguan who has been out of country for at least one year
    • Vehicle is being donated to fire brigades, Nicaraguan Red Cross, churches or other religious foundations
    • Vehicle is an antique or classic

If you’d like to successfully cross the Nicaragua border with your pet, then adhere to all of these regulations:

  • Veterinary health certificate -issued by vet in origin country less than 10 days prior to arrival at destination, must be notarized and submitted to Nicaraguan Consulate for authenticity
  • Certificate of vaccination -issued by veterinarian less than 30 days prior to arrival (includes rabies)
  • Import permit -original copy from Ministry and Agriculture
  • Invoice indicating value of animal
  • Pet owner must be present at customs clearance
  • Quarantine not required for dogs, cats and rodents coming from same continent
  • Birds may be subject to quarantine (because of Avian Flu threat)

In addition to import duty and taxes-which are due when both private individuals and commercial entities import goods-imports are subject to excise duties and sales tax. Customs duties are levied between rates of zero percent and 164 percent, but the average rate sits at about 15 percent. As for sales tax, imports are subject to a standard 15 percent value-added tax (VAT), which is levied on the sum of the duty, CIF value and excise, if applicable. Of course, some items are exempt from this VAT.

Beautiful and affordable: Is Nicaragua the right place for your relocation?

In Nicaragua, you will find the Pacific coast of Central America, rocky outcrops, the best surfing experience, and some of the most mesmerizing views in the world. So, if you are a person who loves natural beauty, this would be an ideal place for you to relocate.

Since Nicaragua is a developing tourist and retirement destination, many people take advantage of the low-cost real estate market and seek an early retirement. You can enjoy an ocean-view condo by investing anything around $100000 and a fully furnished apartment by paying something around $400 to $500 per month.

Nicaragua is still developing its infrastructure, but this provides an opportunity for expats to become pioneers and help shape the country’s future. With new government laws offering unparalleled tax benefits, forming corporations, and opening businesses in Nicaragua has never been easier. However, Nicaragua is not for everyone. It’s more primitive and wilder than other Central American countries and requires a certain level of flexibility and adaptability. Those who are young at heart and don’t mind occasional power outages or delayed guests will find it to be a paradise. It’s a place for people with a sense of adventure who want to create their ideal retirement and experience something new.

Let’s explore some of the important aspects of living in Nicaragua:

Public transport

If you are planning to use public transport in Nicaragua, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved. Public buses are a common mode of transport, but they are also often targeted by petty criminals. To stay safe, it’s important to keep a close eye on your personal belongings and exercise caution when traveling on buses or waiting at bus stations.

Taxis are another option, but they too come with their own set of risks. While registered taxis are generally safe, tourists have reported being overcharged. To avoid this, it’s a good idea to ask locals for an estimate and negotiate the fare before getting in the cab. It’s also recommended to book taxis through a hotel or other reputable source to avoid unregistered vehicles, which can be dangerous.

For a safer and more convenient option, consider booking a shuttle bus. These can be reserved and will pick you up and drop you off at your desired location. While slightly more expensive than public buses, the increased safety and convenience make them a popular choice for tourists and expats.

Healthcare

When it comes to healthcare in Nicaragua, the quality of medical care can vary greatly depending on where you are. In the capital city of Managua, there are numerous hospitals and pharmacies, including the highly regarded Vivian Pellas Metropolitan, which is considered one of the best in Central America. This hospital boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a team of English-speaking and American-educated doctors, making it a popular destination for medical tourists seeking top-notch care at affordable prices.

However, outside of Managua, the quality of medical care has dropped significantly. Visitors have reported that hospitals and clinics in rural areas often lack basic facilities, and even private clinics may not meet Western standards. So, while Managua may be a hub of world-class medical care, it’s important to do your research and carefully consider your options if you need healthcare outside the capital city.

Important preparations before the moving day

When planning to relocate to a new country, there are several important paperwork preparations you need to make. First and foremost, it’s crucial to consult with an immigration lawyer well in advance to gain a better understanding of any legal processing of paperwork before leaving your country of origin. Additionally, you’ll need to renew your passport and driver’s license and ensure that you have original copies of birth certificates or naturalization documents for each member of your family. Some of these documents may need to be certified or apostilled in your home country. It’s also important to have power of attorney for your legal matters back home, so you can leave a legal representative to handle your affairs in case of an emergency in your absence.

Finally, make sure to have your income tax paperwork for the last two years, a letter from your current bank stating how long you’ve been banking with them, and pension documentation if you’re a retiree. By taking these steps and adequately preparing your paperwork, you’ll be well on your way to a successful transition to your new home in the new country.

Moving Internationally to Nicaragua: Packing Tips

You can consider moving to Grenada for work or family reunification purposes. Grenada has different visa options. You can apply for a short-stay visa or visa on arrival if you will be staying in Grenada for not more than 90 days. Any stay that is longer than 90 days will need a temporary residency permit.

Pack appropriate clothes

In Nicaragua, you will experience a tropical climate, so it would be worthwhile if you pack breathable and lightweight clothes in your bags. Clothes made of natural fibers like linen, cotton, or rayon, along with a comfortable pair of shoes to walk on rough terrains will be highly recommended.

Pack a Spanish-English dictionary

Make sure you pack a Spanish-English dictionary in your moving boxes as this would be much needed in the new country. Spanish is the language of locals in Nicaragua; however, many people also speak English.

Pack electrical adapters

In Nicaragua people use only Type A and Type electrical outlets, which aren’t used in most countries. So, make sure you pack all your electrical adapters in the moving boxes and use your devices freely in the new country.

Keep your medicines

If you are taking any prescribed medicines, make sure you pack enough of them with you so that it lasts until you consult a doctor in the new country.

Relevant documents

Don’t forget to bring important documents such as your visa, passport, birth certificate, and insurance papers with you.

Pack some favorite snacks and comfortable items

Don’t forget to pack your favorite snacks, along with comforting items like blankets and books to help you settle into your new home.