Central America
Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, and more
Countries
Latest Updates
Nicaragua waives visas for HKSAR holders as Hong Kong reciprocity starts Aug. 26
Hong Kong passport holders can now enter Nicaragua without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The agreement also grants Nicaraguan nationals reciprocal visa-free access to Hong Kong, simplifying travel for nomads and expats moving between these regions.
Guatemala air passengers must file the free DJRV within 72 hours of travel
Travelers to Guatemala must now complete a mandatory digital regional traveler declaration before entering or leaving the country. The updated guidance also warns of potential travel disruptions near the Mexican border following a July 17 earthquake.
Guatemala deploys 65 officers for Aug. 1 police escorts from El Salvador
Guatemala has launched a special border assistance plan for the Fiestas Agostinas, featuring monitored travel routes and police-supported safe passage from the Salvadoran border. The initiative includes themed tourism routes and increased security presence to facilitate regional travel for expats and visitors.
Costa Rica officers grant up to 180 days but limit extensions to 90 total
Spain's updated travel advisory confirms that Spanish citizens can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days without a visa, provided they present proof of onward travel. Travelers should exercise increased caution due to rising dengue cases and specific safety risks for women.
Costa Rica volunteers lose support as Global Vision International (GVI) enters liquidation
The sudden liquidation of international travel company GVI has resulted in the immediate cancellation of all conservation programs in Costa Rica. This impacts long-stay travelers and volunteers who relied on these structured programs for housing, community integration, and visa support.
Costa Rica cuts DIMEX backlog 85% with simplified residence rules
Foreign residents in Costa Rica continue to experience significant processing backlogs for residency applications and DIMEX card renewals. These delays impact legal status and day-to-day compliance for expats and digital nomads living in the country.
Nicaragua sets residency thresholds at $600 for Pensionado and $750 for Rentista
Foreigners seeking residency in Nicaragua must meet specific monthly passive income or investment minimums to qualify for the Pensionado or Rentista programs. The requirements include authenticated background checks and health certificates for all applicants.
El Salvador reaches Level 1 safety rating for U.S. nomads and tourists
The U.S. Department of State now advises normal precautions for El Salvador following a sustained decrease in violent crime. Travelers should remain aware of the ongoing State of Exception and strict zero-tolerance DUI laws that impact daily movement.
State Department warns foreigners of residency loss in Nicaragua
The U.S. State Department warns that Nicaragua is arbitrarily enforcing laws to revoke residency and seize property from foreign nationals. Travelers and residents face increased risks of entry denial, detention, and sudden changes to their legal status.
El Salvador international arrivals jump 36% as 4.2 million visitor target nears
El Salvador recorded 473,000 international visitors in April, continuing a significant growth trend that is driving rapid expansion in local tourism infrastructure. The surge signals improved accessibility and services for digital nomads and expats considering the country for long-term stays.
Panama Stopover program allows 15 days at no extra airfare
Transit travelers can now spend up to 15 days in Panama without paying additional airfare when flying with Copa Airlines. This expansion allows digital nomads and tourists to explore the country for two weeks before continuing to their final destination.
Costa Rica expands Liberia airport and reforms coastal permits for nomads
The new tourism chief is prioritizing 24-hour operations at Liberia airport and expanded direct routes from the U.S. and Europe. These infrastructure improvements and streamlined permitting are designed to ease access for digital nomads and expats settling in the Pacific south and coastal zones.
JetBlue ends all Belize flights and JFK nonstop service on May 21
JetBlue is suspending its non-stop service between New York JFK and Belize City, reducing direct flight options for East Coast expats and nomads. This follows a similar suspension by Southwest Airlines, potentially increasing airfare and travel time for those relocating to Belize.
Costa Rica tourism surge tightens nomad lodging through late May
Costa Rica is reporting record-breaking visitor arrivals as it prepares to host Expotur. For digital nomads and long-term travelers, this trend indicates tighter availability and higher prices for short-term rentals and boutique lodging in popular hubs.
Panama requires $36,000 income for the 18 month Visa de Corta Estancia
New direct flight connections to Panama City are launching from major international hubs, reducing travel time and costs for remote workers. These routes strengthen Panama's position as a regional base for expats utilizing the country's friendly residency programs.
Nicaragua’s entry rules are split by traveler type
Nicaragua has formalized the requirement for all visitors to submit an online immigration form at least seven days before arrival. Failure to complete this digital pre-screening can result in denied boarding or significant delays at land borders and airports.
Roatán’s security grid keeps expanding
Honduras is reporting record-breaking tourism growth, prompting the government to implement new security measures in popular expat hubs like Roatán and Copán Ruinas. Travelers can expect increased police presence and safety protocols designed to protect the growing influx of international visitors.
Request the Copa Airlines Stopover during booking or lose your 15 days in Panama
Copa Airlines is extending its Panama Stopover program to allow travelers up to 15 days in the country at no extra airfare cost. This provides a low-cost opportunity for digital nomads to scout the local lifestyle before committing to the Panama Digital Nomad Visa.
What El Salvador's 90-Day Stay Rule Means for Temporary Residents
New amendments require temporary residents to remain in El Salvador for at least 90 days per year, either consecutively or cumulatively. Failure to meet this requirement may result in the cancellation of residency status unless a force majeure exception is granted.
How Nicaragua's Visa Ban on Cuban Citizens Works
The Nicaraguan government has suspended the visa exemption policy for Cuban nationals, now requiring them to obtain a visa for entry. While primarily targeting migration routes, this represents a significant shift in regional border policy and entry requirements for travelers within the Caribbean and Central America.