Latin America Collection

As mentioned in previous chapters, Nicaragua has taken great
strides during the last decade to streamline its heavy bureaucracy.
And improvements continue, as the government works to attract
more foreign investment.
During a recent interview with the expat community living in
Granada, Mayor Alvaro Chamorro announced that he wants to
make Granada the city with the most efficient and speedy permit
processes in all of Latin America.
But, for now, getting things done here is still more complicated
than most are probably used to.
Similar to the rest of Latin America, Nicaragua is still plagued by
a top-heavy bureaucratic system that can be ­ at times ­
maddening. It is crucial to get a good lawyer to help you
navigate the red tape and paperwork, so as not to waste more
money and time than necessary.


The concept of time is much different here than it is in North
America or Europe. The term ahorita (which literally means
"right now") ironically often translates into "later," or ­ in some
cases ­ "the day after never." Many government bureaucrats can
appear lackadaisical or indifferent toward your plight. Expect
delays. Patience is a must. But so too is persistence and
knowledge.
The situation can be very frustrating to foreigners who are used
to fast, efficient service. It can be especially irritating if you don't
speak Spanish, and can't figure out what is expected of you. Since
very few people working in government offices speak English,
and most North Americans speak little else, it is advisable to
study basic Spanish and seek out a bilingual lawyer. Think of the
experience as an adventure, and take joy in minor miracles (like
instances of quick approval, or responsive and helpful
government agents). You can help your own case by not being a
pushing "ugly American." You are playing by someone else's
rules here. Learn what they are and figure out how to work the
system.
When applying for building permits, you are also advised to let
a Nicaraguan contractor or lawyer take care of that for you.
Showing your gringo face in the municipal government offices is
not always the best idea (see real estate section). Let a reputable
and knowledgeable Nicaraguan who is familiar with the system
help you through the process.
A few words of caution--there are some individuals who pass
themselves off as facilitators, or who may befriend you and offer
to help you cut through red tape, claiming they can short-cut the
bureaucratic system because of their contacts. As a general rule,
avoid such individuals or you may lose valuable time, run the risk
of acquiring forged documents, and most certainly lose money
and experience indescribable grief.


Since bribery and payoffs are common in most Latin American
countries, and low-ranking government employees are paid
meager salaries, some people advise paying them extra money to
speed up paper work or circumvent normal channels. This
bribery is illegal and is not recommended for foreigners; police
can actually arrest you for offering a bribe and you can be
deported for breaking the law. However, in some instances it may
be necessary to pay extra money ­ especially to non-government
people, such as contractors, builders, etc. ­ to get things done.
Use your own discretion in such matters. A tip here and there for
a small favor can accelerate some delays, but be smart about it.
U.S. citizens and other foreigners planning to live, retire or do
business in Nicaragua should know that the consulate sections of
their respective embassies can usually help with: Social Security
and Veterans benefits, notarizing documents, obtaining new
passports, registering births of your children, and getting a visa
for your spouse (if you choose to marry a Nicaraguan). They also
assist in obtaining absentee ballots for elections in your home
state, and ­ in some cases ­ can help provide income tax forms
and information (U.S. citizens living abroad are still required to
file income tax-return forms, but not required to pay unless their
income exceeds $75,000). If you get into any legal trouble in
Nicaragua, however do not expect preferential help from your
embassy.