Navigating the COVID-19 Test Requirements for Children to get into Nicaragua by air - Updated September 2022
Throughout the pandemic, Nicaragua has been known for its strict COVID-19 test requirements in the region. Until recently, every air traveler had to present an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of flight.
As of mid-2022, fully vaccinated individuals no longer have to present a test and can simply show their digital or physical COVID-19 vaccine card. For reference, here is the Ministry of Tourism site with the most updated information: Visita Nicaragua Site
Many travelers ask, what does this mean for children who may not be eligible for vaccines yet or may not be vaccinated for other reasons? The short answer is that every unvaccinated person, kids included and regardless of age, needs to present an RT-PCR test at check-in, or boarding will be denied.
But what if my unvaccinated child is under age 2? Or under 6 months old? YOUR CHILD STILL NEEDS A PCR TEST!
COVID-19 Test Logistics for Kids Entering Nicaragua
Here's a step by step of how to go about the testing process with unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children, for traveling to Nicaragua, as of September 2022:
Step 1: Identify a testing location in your area that can turn around the result in 24-48 hours.
Step 2: Take your child to get the test. Bring stickers or other distractions! That nasal test is no fun.
Step 3: Receive the (hopefully negative) result within 24-48 hours and PRINT IT OUT!
Step 4: Bring the printed test to the airport with you and present it at check-in.
Step 5: Board the plane and fly to Nicaragua! I wish you a happy flight with no meltdowns.
Step 6: After deplaning in Managua, you need to have each passport, customs form (one per person now, even for kids), and test or vaccine card ready to show to the Ministry of Health officials. They will be standing at the top of the stairs before you go down to the immigration area. Make sure the fill out the back of the customs form declaring that you and your child(ren) have no respiratory symptoms.
Congratulations! If you made it this far, that means you made it to Nicaragua with kids during (phase two) of the pandemic requirements.
FAQ About COVID-19 Testing and Children to Enter Nicaragua
Here are a few frequently asked questions about the new guidelines, released in June 2022 by the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health:
Are all vaccines accepted? Yes, all vaccines authorized by the World Health Organization are accepted for entry into Nicaragua.
Does it matter when I got the vaccine? No, the year of application does not matter.
How long before my flight do I need to test? You need to test 72 hours before entry (the plane landing) in Nicaragua. Do not calculate the 72 hours from take off. If you can take the test and get results back within 24 or 36 hours, I recommend taking the test closer to the flight time, in case of a delayed flight.
I can't get an RT-PCR test. Will they accept another type of test? No - it needs to be a nasal RT-PCR test.
Do I need to get a QR code on my test? It certainly wouldn't hurt, but I have never had the QR code checked upon entry.
What does the government define as "fully vaccinated"? A two-dose sequence, with the exception of the J&J and Sputnik Lite vaccines that are single dose only.
Do we still need to send the tests to MINSA beforehand? NO! You just show the tests or vaccine cards at check-in. This is a HUGE relief for those of us who traveled during the beginning of the pandemic. Ojo: There is a separate form that needs to be filled before travel, but it does not involve submitting a test.
Here are frequently asked questions, specifically about kids:
What if my child is partially vaccinated? You need to present a negative RT-PCR test for the child.
My child is under six months old and there are no vaccines available yet for that age group. Does my baby really need a test? YES! All travelers, including babies, need to present a negative RT-PCR test to board the airpline.
Where to Get a COVID-19 Test in Nicaragua
What if you need a COVID-19 test while in Nicaragua?
The only authorized location to get an RT-PCR test in Nicaragua is run the Ministry of Health and located in Bolonia, Managua. There is an online registration form, but given that very few people are now using the service, it's not really necessary - you can just show up and do everything, including payment, at MINSA. For reference, this is the MINSA website. The test will set you back $150 USD.
Although there is a thriving market for antigen tests on Facebook Marketplace, the Nicaraguan government does not authorize rapid or antigen tests (like the Abbott BinaxNOW test) for use in Nicaragua.
Conclusion
In summary, the most common question about entering Nicaragua with children is, do my kids need a test? The answer is, if they are fully vaccinated, NO, and if they are not fully vaccinated, YES - regardless of their ages.
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