U.S. Embassy In Nicaragua

Arrest of a U.S. Citizen

One of the highest priorities of the Department of State and U.S. embassies and consulates abroad is to provide assistance to U.S. citizens incarcerated abroad. The Department of State is committed to ensuring fair and humane treatment for U.S. citizens imprisoned overseas. We stand ready to assist incarcerated citizens and their families within the limits of our authority in accordance with international, domestic, and foreign law. More informaton available at Travel.State.gov.

Death of a U.S. Citizen

Costs for preparing and returning the body to the United States must be paid by next of kin or a legal representative. Nicaraguan law requires disposition of remains (either cremation or burial) within 24 hours unless the remains are to be shipped outside the country or embalmed. The following paragraphs explain the options you have for making your decisions.

Victims of Crime

Being the victim of crime in a foreign country can be a devastating and traumatic experience. While no one can undo the emotional trauma, physical injury, or financial loss you may have endured, the U.S. Mission in Nicaragua is ready to help with the legal process. We can assist you in managing the consequences of being a crime victim; provide you with information about accessing the local criminal justice system, and other resources for crime victims abroad and in the United States.

Emergency Financial Assistance

For information on services provided by the U.S. Department of State to assist destitute U.S. citizens abroad who need temporary financial assistance, please visit the Emergency Financial Assistance for U.S. Citizens Abroad and Sending Money to Destitute U.S. Citizens Overseas on the State Department website.

Veterans Affairs

Service members, Veterans, and their beneficiaries can apply for benefits services on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website at www.va.gov. The Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) can also be of assistance if Veterans and beneficiaries have questions about benefits and services.

Internal Revenue Service

If you are a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder), you are responsible for filing U.S. federal income tax returns while abroad. You will find useful information on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website, such as Frequently Asked Questions about taxes or how to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you are a U.S. government employee working overseas, you cannot claim the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. For additional information, visit the IRS website.

Selective Service

U.S. embassies and consulates overseas assist the Selective Service System with its registration program abroad.

Voting

Now all U.S. citizens can receive their blank ballots electronically. Depending on the state in which you are eligible to vote, you may get your ballot by email, fax, or internet download. To start, go to www.FVAP.gov to complete a new Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), print and sign the form then return it to your local election office in the United States. We recommend overseas U.S. citizens get in the habit of completing FPCAs each January. You should include your email address on the form so it’s easier for your election officials to reach you if there is a problem. If your state delivers ballots electronically by fax only, be sure to include your fax number. If you request electronic delivery and include your email address or fax number, you’ll receive your blank ballot 45 days before general and mid-term elections and generally 30 days before special, primary, and run-off elections for federal offices.