Dual Citizenship: Rules, Exceptions, and Impact
Nicaragua’s General Policy
Nicaragua, by default, does not allow dual citizenship for most naturalized foreigners since 2025/2026. This means that, except for specific exceptions, you would normally need to renounce your existing nationality to obtain Nicaraguan citizenship and a passport.
Latin American and Iberian Exceptions
However, Nicaragua does recognize dual citizenship with certain countries, based on treaties and regional agreements. If you are a citizen of Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Peru, or Spain, you are permitted to keep your original nationality while naturalizing in Nicaragua. This exception is crucial for many expats seeking a “second passport” without losing their first.
What If I’m Not From a Listed Country?
Citizens of countries outside this list—such as the United States, Canada, or most of Europe and Asia—must formally renounce their home citizenship. Nicaragua will ask for documented proof of this renunciation as part of the citizenship application.
Who Qualifies for Citizenship? Requirements and Paths
Residency Requirements
To apply for Nicaraguan citizenship, you must be a legal resident first. The typical routes include:
- Investor residency: Fastest path; after 2 years of legal residency if you have made a government-approved investment (often real estate, business, or productive projects).
- Other residency types (pensionado, rentista, or by family connection): Usually requires 4-5 continuous years of legal residency.
Integration Exam
No matter your country of origin, you must demonstrate basic proficiency in Spanish and knowledge of Nicaragua’s history, culture, and geography. This is usually verified by an oral or written integration assessment, as stipulated in Nicaraguan law.
Good Conduct and Financial Standing
Applicants must present police/background checks—both from their country of origin and Nicaragua—demonstrating a clean criminal record. Proof of legal income or financial solvency and a health certificate are also mandatory.
The Citizenship and Passport Application Process
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Key documents include:
- Certified birth certificate (apostilled and translated if foreign)
- Original and valid passport
- Residency card
- Police/background checks (foreign and Nicaraguan)
- Health certificate
- Proof of continuous residency (utility bills, contracts)
- Proof of renunciation (if required)
Step 2: Submit Application and Attend Integration Test
Apply at the Ministerio de Gobernación. You’ll be asked to take an oral or written test in Spanish, demonstrating knowledge about Nicaraguan society. If applicable, show official proof of renouncing your original citizenship—unless you are covered by the Latin American/Iberian exceptions.
Step 3: Approval, Naturalization, and Passport Application
If your application is approved and you are granted citizenship, you’ll receive a naturalization certificate and can apply for a national ID (cédula). With these documents, apply for your Nicaraguan passport at the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería, submitting passport photos, application forms, and paying the prescribed fees.
Key Takeaways
- Only citizens of Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Peru, and Spain can maintain dual citizenship with Nicaragua due to treaties.
- Others must prove renunciation of previous citizenship.
- All applicants must demonstrate Spanish language skills and knowledge of Nicaraguan culture and history via an integration test.
- Follow all official document, translation, and legalization requirements to avoid delays.
- Consult the Ministerio de Gobernación or a qualified immigration attorney for updates and exact procedures before starting your application.