Government
Nicaragua is a constitutional democracy with executive, legislative, judicial, and electoral branches of government. The President of Nicaragua is both head of state and head of government. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in the National Assembly. The judiciary and electoral powers are independent of the executive and the legislature. The magistrates of both the Supreme Court (CSJ) and the Supreme Electoral Council (CSE) are appointed by the President and ratified by the National Assembly.
Chief of state: President Daniel Ortega Saavedra (since 10 January 2007)
Vice President: Moises Omar Halleslevens Acevedo (since 10 January 2012)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president
Elections: president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for a five-year term election last held on 6 November 2011 (next to be held by November 2016)
Election results: Daniel Ortega Saavedra reelected president; percent of vote - Daniel Ortega Saavedra 62.5%, Fabio Gadea 31%, Arnoldo Aleman 5.9%, other 0.6%
Legislative Branch:
Unicameral National Assembly or Asamblea Nacional (92 seats; 90 members elected by proportional representation and party lists to serve five-year terms; 1 seat for the previous president, 1 seat for the runner-up in previous presidential election)
Elections: last held on November 2011
Election results: percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - FSLN 38, PLC 25, ALN 24, MRS 5; note - political parties have been reorganized to reflect the following seat distribution: as of 1 March 2011 - seats by party - FSLN 37, PLC 20, BDN 13, ALN 7, MRS 4, BUN 5, Independent 6
Judicial branch:
Supreme Court or Corte Suprema de Justicia (16 judges elected for five-year terms by the National Assembly); note - in 2010, President Ortega directly replaced seven justices on the Supreme Court
Major Government Offices in Detail
CONTRALORÍA GENERAL DE LA REPÚBLICA (CGR)
GENERAL CONTROLLERS OF THE REPUBLIC
The general accounting office of the republic is the supervisor institution of the control system of public resources. This institution is autonomous and independent to be able to supervise effectively the public function, goods and resources of the State. Also, CGR establishes, divulges and updates the procedures for the National Control System. Moreover, political figures and government employees present their Probity Declaration yearly to CGR. Then, this institution verifies the accuracy of these declarations and sues in case of illicit enrichment.
Their main office is located in front of the enterprise DICEGSA in John Paul II trail. You can call CGR to (505) 2265-2072. Also, they have offices in Chontales, Estelí, Chinandega, Bluefields and Puerto Cabezas. CGR must display to the public all their internal balances and the results of their supervisions to the Nicaraguan Government.
DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE ADUANAS (DGA)
GENERAL DIRECTION OF CUSTOMS DUTY
DGA is part of Earnings General Direction (DGI) and it administers customs duty to control and facilitate foreign commerce. Also, this institution administers the earnings in favor of the State that result from the international traffic of goods. Among their goals are to facilitate external commerce activities by giving agile services, to dictate the necessary dispositions to improve the control, collection and supervision of tariffs and taxes levied to external commerce. Moreover, they coordinate surveillances and auditory to importers, exporters and DGA auxiliaries. Their main goal is to prevent and punish illicit procedures and infractions.
Their main office is in Km 4 ½ on North Highway Managua. Their phone number is (505) 2248-2642. In their website, you can get the formats for international transport registration, customs agent, Custom Value Declaration (DVA—Declaracion al Valor Aduanero) and how to calculate taxes for different products.
DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE INGRESOS (DGI)
GENERAL DIRECTION OF EARNINGS
DGI handles everything related to tributary obligations and the administration of fiscal laws. This institution collects payments in favor of the government and internal taxes, such as IR—Tax over Rent; IVA—Tax Aggregate Value; ISC—Selective Consumption Tax; ITF—Tax Fiscal Stamp. Moreover, DGI is a fiscal entity in charge of determining collection policies, practicing liquidations, estimating exonerations and taxes and tariff payments and verifying tributary declarations’ veracity.
Moreover, every business needs a RUC (Unique Register of Contributors) number and DGI is the sole organization able to give them. Every business must deal with DGI or with the local Rents Administration which is where you pay taxes. Property taxes also are estimated and paid at DGI offices. Also, you might need a non contributor certification or property evaluation certification. Before engaging in any business, some investors might require a fiscal solvency, which is solely launched in any DGI offices. There are delegations in the entire country. Nevertheless, their main office is located behind the Cathedral of Managua; you can call at the number (505) 2278-8844.
EMPRESA NICARAGUENSE DE ACUEDUCTOS Y ALCANTARILLADOS (ENACAL)
NICARAGUAN ENTERPRISE OF AQUEDUCTS AND SEWER SYSTEM
ENACAL tries to satisfy the water and sanitary sewer needs of Nicaraguan population in quantity, quality and continuity. To do this, they employ their entire economic resources to guarantee the efficiency in the services mentioned before. They research and display all the information about the Ambience Health level, water provision and train information providers.
Moreover, ENACAL works with different organizations such as REPIDISCA (Red Panamericana de Información en Salud Ambiental), which is the Panamerican Network of Information in Ambience Health. Their main office is in Km 5 in the South highway in Managua. If you have any emergency, you can call to 177. If not, (505) 2266-7863 is the telephone number at their main office.
INSTITUTO NACIONAL FORESTAL (INAFOR)
NATIONAL FORESTAL INSTITUTE
Even though it has functional, technical, and administrative autonomy, it is linked to the Farming and Forestal Ministry. Also, INAFOR priorities are to protect forests and the different species living in them through reforestation. They inspect that wood companies follow their quotas and the hygiene and security measures. Moreover, they place special emphasis in managing Hydrographic Basins.
Furthermore, INAFOR is in charge of the Genetic Improvement Center and the Forest Seeds Bank. Through them, this institution tries to improve genetically Nicaraguan flora and products. Any permission to work or invest in forests is given by INAFOR. Moreover, if you want genetically-improved seeds to plant, you can request them at INAFOR.
Also, if you are interested in financing any campaign to protect forests, INAFOR signs agreements with different public and private enterprises to accomplish this. Furthermore, this institute manages plagues. They have a map library that includes forests and plagues. There are ten INAFOR offices but their main office located in Km 12 ½ North Highway in Managua, next to MARENA.
INSTITUTO NACIONAL TECNOLOGICO (INATEC)
NATIONAL TECHNOLOGICAL INSTITUTE
This institute is the rector and supervisor of Professional formation in Nicaragua. INATEC directs social programs dedicated to train poor people in technical jobs. Also, they accredit other institutions to be able to give classes at a cheap price to help Nicaraguans get out of poverty and unemployment. Moreover, they constantly are signing brotherhood contracts with other countries to continuously improve their efficiency. Also, they have training programs for 2% of employees in any enterprise. If you are interested in sponsoring INATEC or need information related to technical schools accreditation or technical programs, you can visit them at the Civic Center, U module or call to (505) 2254-4382.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE FOMENTO MUNICIPAL (INIFOM)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF MUNICIPAL FOMENT
This institute motivates and assists small entrepreneurs to develop their business ideas in the 153 municipalities of the country. The finality of this institute is to promote the institutional development of municipalities in general, the strengthening of local governments and municipal public administration. Also, INIFOM promotes citizens participation to decentralize and develop at a local level.
Among their functions is to assist in land divisions, investments and to help City Halls organize their budgets. Even though there are delegations of INIFOM throughout the country, their main office is located in Managua in the main entrance to “Los Arcos” Residential in the highway to the refinery. Also, you can call them at (505) 2266-6050.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE ENERGIA (INE)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF ENERGY
To guarantee the continuity, quality and quantity necessary of electricity and hydrocarbons derivatives is the main function of this institute. They supervise the enterprises which generate, transmit, distribute and commercialize electricity and hydrocarbons for Nicaraguans. Moreover, they vie for fair but sustainable prices in the long run. Their most important goal is to achieve the economic sustainable development of the energy sector in the country. However, they seek an eco-friendly and efficient development to guarantee Nicaraguans progress. You can contact them at (505) 2222-4864 in their main office located at Saint Dominique Barrio, from Loyola School 2 blocks west.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE ESTUDIOS TERRITORIALES (INETER)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF TERRITORIAL STUDIES
This institute is the technical and scientific entity of Nicaragua. They offer society basic cartographic, meteorological, hydrological and geological information. Also, they study and research the entire Nicaraguan environment, so they can help the social-economical development and reduce the vulnerability of natural disasters and permanently watch natural dangerous phenomena.
Moreover, they offer information about earthquakes, volcanoes and hurricanes. INETER’s main office is located in front of Metropoli Xolotlan Hospital. Their phone number is (505) 2249-2746.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE APOYO A LA PEQUEÑA Y MEDIANA EMPRESA (INPYME)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE TO SUPPORT SMALL AND MIDDLE ENTERPRISE
This institution is committed to the strengthening of competitiveness of INPYME, promotion and development for new projects. They execute policies, programs and projects oriented to small and medium enterprises. INPYME assists various sectors such as manufacturer, tourist, agro industry and technology and communications.
If you are starting a small business, you may want assistance from INPYME. They give technical support and development, they investigate markets and commercialization. They have delegations in the entire Pacific zone, Chontales, Boaco, Matagalpa, Jinotega, Estelí and Bluefields. You can contact them at (505) 2278-7836.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE SEGUROS Y REASEGUROS (INISER)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF INSURANCE AND RE-INSURANCES
INISER is an autonomous institution from the Estate. The Bank Superintendence allows this institute to provide insurance policies for people, construction and physical goods. Moreover, they act as reinsurer for other enterprises. Their main office is located in Camino de Oriente, Managua; their phone number is (505) 2267-2021.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE TECNOLOGÍA AGRARIA (INTA)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF AGRARIAN TECHNOLOGY
INTA is an institution of research and technological innovation that contributes to reduce poverty, alimentary and nutritional security of rural families. They place special emphasis in productive chains and in the integration and development of Caribbean Coast. Their main function is to generate, adapt and transfer farming and Forrestal technologies to Middle and Small producers, ethnic communities and Indian towns. Moreover, INTA fights to preserve land, water and forest through programs aiming women and young people in the country side. Their main office is in Central American Colony in Managua, next to the fifth police station. Also, you can contact them at (505) 2278-0469.
INTA studies different processes in agriculture to make sure that the final product is free from insecticides and other harmful products for health. Moreover, they carry the statistics on healthy products and efficient production. Also, this institute gives workshops and training to farmers on how to improve their quality.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE TURISMO (INTUR)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF TOURISM
INTUR’s main goal is to promote the sustainable development of the touristic sector for its importance for the national economy. Moreover, INTUR balances the human, ambient and economic aspects of the country to attract new tourists and to improve businesses competitiveness. This ministry especially emphasizes small and middle enterprises. All this has the purpose of diminish poverty levels and to improve quality life from all Nicaraguans.
For those investors interested in Nicaraguan tourism, INTUR is the first step in the process. INTUR handles the permissions for touristic businesses and gives information related to tourism. Moreover, they grant Operational Licenses for Tourist Enterprises and Activities. Furthermore, INTUR must assure that businesses established in Nicaragua follow the Behavior Conduct.
Also, they must carry all the statistics about tourist activities in the country. It has delegations in Chinandega, León, Managua, Granada, Masaya, Carazo, Rivas, Estelí, Somoto, Jinotega, Nueva Segovia, Matagalpa, Juigalpa, Rio San Juan, Bluefields and Puerto Cabezas. However, their main office is located from Hotel Crowne Plaza 1 block south and then 1 block west in Managua. Their phone number is (505) 2254-5191. Nevertheless, each delegation executes different programs throughout the country’s delegations to train people, to make people conscience about sustainable tourism to attend and to protect the tourist. Moreover, INTUR helps prevent sexual tourism. Most importantly, it must register, monitor and make sure Nicaraguan tourist quality continually improves.
MINISTERIO AGROPECUARIO Y FORESTAL (MAGFOR)
FARMING AND FORRESTAL MINISTRY
The main mission of MAGFOR is to formulate, monitor and evaluate the Forrestal and Farming policies to promote and assure the social, ambient, economic and productive improvement of Nicaraguan society. Moreover, they place special attention on medium and small producers and to national and international investors by implementing programs and projects that allow the sustainable development of the sector.
To contact them, you can call MAGFOR main office in Managua at (505) 2276-0200; this office is located in the Km 8 ½ in the Masaya-Managua highway. There are delegations in every department of Nicaragua. They are located in the departmental heads. Among their functions, there is to plan strategically the rural development. This includes the establishment of commerce policies, farming sanity and alimentary safety. Then, MAGFOR executes different programs such as the alimentary safety, territorial programming and production support.
Moreover, MAGFOR must take care of animals’ safety, vegetal and seeds sanity and control farming tools and prevent the use of toxic substances. They can handle all these programs in every delegation. Moreover, they work in conjunction with the Nicaraguan Institute of Farming Technology and with the National Forestry Institute, INTA and INAFOR respectively.
MINISTERIO DEL AMBIENTE Y RECURSOS NATURALES (MARENA)
MINISTRY OF AMBIENCE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
MARENA is in charge of the conservation, protection and adequate use of natural resources and environment. Also, it administers the National System of Protected Areas and coordinates with the National Ambience Information System, SINIA. This organization (SINIA) systematizes and divulges all the ambience information. Furthermore, MARENA works together with SINAPRED (National System of Disaster Prevention, Mitigation and Attention) to prevent disasters, emergencies or ambient contingencies. They also coordinate the planning and policies for the use of land, mines and quarry; hydrocarbon and geothermic; estate lands and forests; fish and superficial and underground resources.
MARENA offices are spread throughout the country but their main office is in Managua, in Km 12 ½ north highway. Certainly, there is one office in every department capital. In any MARENA’s office, you may apply if you want to hunt, denounce infractions against natural resources and any authorization that concerns the environment. Also, permissions for businesses that relate with the environmentare requested at MARENA. Furthermore, MARENA must give information to the public about marine turtles and other flora and fauna in the country.
Moreover, MARENA works with PIMCHAS (Integral Project of Hydrographic Basins, Water and Cleaning Management) to promote the sustainable use of natural resources and the provision of water and the cleaning of water sources.
MINISTERIO DE FOMENTO, INDUSTRIA Y COMERCIO (MIFIC)
MINISTRY OF ENCOURAGEMENT, INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE
This ministry is in charge of foreign commerce such as exports, imports, free trade zones. Their goal is to promote exports and bring imports for a fair price. They must also seek and attain foreign investment that would bring progress to Nicaragua. Most importantly, they handle the Free Trade Agreements with US and other countries. They have the Unique Investment Window, where they guarantee a fast and clear business creation, offering the investor a personalized high-quality service. Through this VUI (Unique Investment Window) they also help the investor in the acquisition of goods and services.
MIFIC gives free counseling to enterprises about required documentation, legal references, other institutions, contacts and liabilities. Moreover, they process complaints on the velocity or efficiency of MIFIC system. Most importantly, this ministry guides PYMES (Small and Medium enterprises) in an open market economy. To assist PYMES, the ministry of Foment, Industry and Commerce constantly reviews the Foment policies, coordinates, supervises and divulge the public and private efforts. They want competitive, high-quality PYMES to expand through the Free Trade Agreements with other countries.
MINISTERIO DE EDUCACIÓN (MINED) —MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
The continual improvement of the educative system is the purpose of the Ministry of Education. Productive, competitive and ethical citizens are our final task to contribute to our society. Moreover, through the current educational curriculum, we want to form independent Nicaraguans with the skills necessary to face globalization. Our goal is to provide students with civic, moral and cultural values and with a strong sense of national identity.
Since MINED handles educational issues, they extend the titles for elementary and high school and for undergraduate. If you need a validation of any title you acquire abroad from Nicaragua, you must go to MINED because they are the sole institution in charge of it.
MINISTERIO DE HACIENDA Y CRÉDITO PÚBLICO
MINISTRY OF FEDERAL INCOME AND PUBLIC CREDIT
The main goal of this ministry is to maintain macroeconomic stability by redistributing governmental income to government expenses in social programs that benefit Nicaraguans. Moreover, they must follow the National Plan of Human Development in an equal and transparent way. They are the government accountants. Their functions include the guarantee tributary policies coherent with economic growth, administration and control of the Internal and External Governmental Debt, administration of SIGADE (Negotiation System of Internal and External Public Debt), establishment of policies and procedures for governmental contracts and human resources. Moreover, they must administer the Integrated System of Administrative, Finance and Auditing Negotiation (SIGFA).
This ministry must solve administratively any claim or complaint about properties. Also, they are in charge of Customs and Budget Fiscals Policies in Nicaragua. Also, General Direction of Earnings and General Direction of Custom, DGI and DGA respectively, are part of this ministry.
MINISTERIO DE SALUD (MINSA)
MINISTRY OF HEALTH
MINSA’s main goal is to guarantee the free universal access to health services to all Nicaraguans. To accomplish this, the Ministry of Health promotes healthy lifestyles and practices. MINSA is in charge of public hospitals, health center and health posts. Through them, they freely give vaccines for children and treatments for several illnesses such as tuberculosis, HIV and flu. Moreover, they supervise private hospitals, health clinics and laboratories to assure the quality of their services.
Also, the sanitary department inspects different businesses such as restaurants, bars, hotels. These inspections guarantee that every commercial establishment follows sanity rules. Hence, if you are starting any business, you must get MINSA’s approval or training. They offer workshops on health measures for businesses. Their main office is located in the west side of May 1st Colony in Managua. You can contact it at (505) 2289-4700.
MINISTERIO DEL TRABAJO (MITRAB)
MINISTRY OF EMPLOYMENT
The main goal of this ministry is to empower the country and city workers to improve their working conditions by guaranteeing their rights and developing their labor and productive skills. As a consequence of this training, both businesses and employees will benefit economically. Moreover, MITRAB also determines the hygiene and security of workers, production and environment in general.
MITRAB supervises that enterprises in every sector follow the Worker’s Code. Hence, if you have a business of any type, you will certainly be visited by MITRAB inspectors. Moreover, employees submit their complaints, denounces and comments to this ministry. There are offices in every departmental head of Nicaragua. However, their main office is located from the National Stadium in Managua 300 meters towards north. For more information, you can contact (505) 2222-2115.
MINISTERIO DE RELACIONES EXTERIORES
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
As its name indicates, this ministry handles foreign affairs. They accredit ambassadors and international missions. Also, they select Nicaraguan representatives to speak to the world. Moreover, they deal with consulates and international missions and they sign cooperation agreements with other countries. Their main office of this ministry is located on Bolivar Avenue, from Gonzalez Theater 1 block south. Also, you can call at (505) 2244-8000.
MINISTERIO DE TRANSPORTE E INFRAESTRUCTURA (MTI)
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The main goal of MTI is to serve society and other economic sectors through the formulation of transportation and construction policies. Their role is to set standards, plan, execute, evaluate and control the activities related to vital infrastructure and transportation means to satisfy population and guarantee an efficient service.
Thus, MTI handles traffic issues: such as vehicles plaques, construction of new highways or streets and permissions for affecting regular traffic, both marine and land. Hence, MTI through the DGTT (General Direction of Terrestrial Transportation) issues certifications and permissions for new and former transport cooperatives. They set tariffs, traffic routes for buses and cars.
Moreover, if you are planning on building new houses or developing in urban zones, you must go to MTI. This is because MTI grants permissions, regulates and supervises the construction. They also check the quality of the building materials. Other departments of MTI are the General Direction of Construction Norms (DGNCTU) and the Vial General Direction (DGV). Their main office is located in front of the National Stadium in Managua; their phone is (505) 2222-5111.
In addition, DGTA (General Direction of Aquatic Transportation) is the maritime authority in Nicaragua but it is part of MTI. DGTA gives different courses on ocean survival, first aids, fire fighting, personal security and social responsibilities. They investigate marine accidents and incidents. Also, they give certifications for national and international ships. Most importantly, they look for the safety in ports and aquatic transportation.
PROCURADORIA PARA LA DEFENSA DE LOS DERECHOS HUMANOS
PROCURATOR FOR HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENSE
This institution fights for human rights. They make sure that every enterprise, business and sector of Nicaraguan society follows the international code of rights. The procurators handle any demand or complaint of rights violation. These violations can be against women, children and adolescence, people in jail, disabled people, ethnicities and seniors. You can contact calling to (505) 2266-0597 or going to their main office, from the Central Station of Firefighters 1 block west in Managua.
Chief of state: President Daniel Ortega Saavedra (since 10 January 2007)
Vice President: Moises Omar Halleslevens Acevedo (since 10 January 2012)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president
Elections: president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for a five-year term election last held on 6 November 2011 (next to be held by November 2016)
Election results: Daniel Ortega Saavedra reelected president; percent of vote - Daniel Ortega Saavedra 62.5%, Fabio Gadea 31%, Arnoldo Aleman 5.9%, other 0.6%
Legislative Branch:
Unicameral National Assembly or Asamblea Nacional (92 seats; 90 members elected by proportional representation and party lists to serve five-year terms; 1 seat for the previous president, 1 seat for the runner-up in previous presidential election)
Elections: last held on November 2011
Election results: percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - FSLN 38, PLC 25, ALN 24, MRS 5; note - political parties have been reorganized to reflect the following seat distribution: as of 1 March 2011 - seats by party - FSLN 37, PLC 20, BDN 13, ALN 7, MRS 4, BUN 5, Independent 6
Judicial branch:
Supreme Court or Corte Suprema de Justicia (16 judges elected for five-year terms by the National Assembly); note - in 2010, President Ortega directly replaced seven justices on the Supreme Court
Major Government Offices in Detail
CONTRALORÍA GENERAL DE LA REPÚBLICA (CGR)
GENERAL CONTROLLERS OF THE REPUBLIC
The general accounting office of the republic is the supervisor institution of the control system of public resources. This institution is autonomous and independent to be able to supervise effectively the public function, goods and resources of the State. Also, CGR establishes, divulges and updates the procedures for the National Control System. Moreover, political figures and government employees present their Probity Declaration yearly to CGR. Then, this institution verifies the accuracy of these declarations and sues in case of illicit enrichment.
Their main office is located in front of the enterprise DICEGSA in John Paul II trail. You can call CGR to (505) 2265-2072. Also, they have offices in Chontales, Estelí, Chinandega, Bluefields and Puerto Cabezas. CGR must display to the public all their internal balances and the results of their supervisions to the Nicaraguan Government.
DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE ADUANAS (DGA)
GENERAL DIRECTION OF CUSTOMS DUTY
DGA is part of Earnings General Direction (DGI) and it administers customs duty to control and facilitate foreign commerce. Also, this institution administers the earnings in favor of the State that result from the international traffic of goods. Among their goals are to facilitate external commerce activities by giving agile services, to dictate the necessary dispositions to improve the control, collection and supervision of tariffs and taxes levied to external commerce. Moreover, they coordinate surveillances and auditory to importers, exporters and DGA auxiliaries. Their main goal is to prevent and punish illicit procedures and infractions.
Their main office is in Km 4 ½ on North Highway Managua. Their phone number is (505) 2248-2642. In their website, you can get the formats for international transport registration, customs agent, Custom Value Declaration (DVA—Declaracion al Valor Aduanero) and how to calculate taxes for different products.
DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE INGRESOS (DGI)
GENERAL DIRECTION OF EARNINGS
DGI handles everything related to tributary obligations and the administration of fiscal laws. This institution collects payments in favor of the government and internal taxes, such as IR—Tax over Rent; IVA—Tax Aggregate Value; ISC—Selective Consumption Tax; ITF—Tax Fiscal Stamp. Moreover, DGI is a fiscal entity in charge of determining collection policies, practicing liquidations, estimating exonerations and taxes and tariff payments and verifying tributary declarations’ veracity.
Moreover, every business needs a RUC (Unique Register of Contributors) number and DGI is the sole organization able to give them. Every business must deal with DGI or with the local Rents Administration which is where you pay taxes. Property taxes also are estimated and paid at DGI offices. Also, you might need a non contributor certification or property evaluation certification. Before engaging in any business, some investors might require a fiscal solvency, which is solely launched in any DGI offices. There are delegations in the entire country. Nevertheless, their main office is located behind the Cathedral of Managua; you can call at the number (505) 2278-8844.
EMPRESA NICARAGUENSE DE ACUEDUCTOS Y ALCANTARILLADOS (ENACAL)
NICARAGUAN ENTERPRISE OF AQUEDUCTS AND SEWER SYSTEM
ENACAL tries to satisfy the water and sanitary sewer needs of Nicaraguan population in quantity, quality and continuity. To do this, they employ their entire economic resources to guarantee the efficiency in the services mentioned before. They research and display all the information about the Ambience Health level, water provision and train information providers.
Moreover, ENACAL works with different organizations such as REPIDISCA (Red Panamericana de Información en Salud Ambiental), which is the Panamerican Network of Information in Ambience Health. Their main office is in Km 5 in the South highway in Managua. If you have any emergency, you can call to 177. If not, (505) 2266-7863 is the telephone number at their main office.
INSTITUTO NACIONAL FORESTAL (INAFOR)
NATIONAL FORESTAL INSTITUTE
Even though it has functional, technical, and administrative autonomy, it is linked to the Farming and Forestal Ministry. Also, INAFOR priorities are to protect forests and the different species living in them through reforestation. They inspect that wood companies follow their quotas and the hygiene and security measures. Moreover, they place special emphasis in managing Hydrographic Basins.
Furthermore, INAFOR is in charge of the Genetic Improvement Center and the Forest Seeds Bank. Through them, this institution tries to improve genetically Nicaraguan flora and products. Any permission to work or invest in forests is given by INAFOR. Moreover, if you want genetically-improved seeds to plant, you can request them at INAFOR.
Also, if you are interested in financing any campaign to protect forests, INAFOR signs agreements with different public and private enterprises to accomplish this. Furthermore, this institute manages plagues. They have a map library that includes forests and plagues. There are ten INAFOR offices but their main office located in Km 12 ½ North Highway in Managua, next to MARENA.
INSTITUTO NACIONAL TECNOLOGICO (INATEC)
NATIONAL TECHNOLOGICAL INSTITUTE
This institute is the rector and supervisor of Professional formation in Nicaragua. INATEC directs social programs dedicated to train poor people in technical jobs. Also, they accredit other institutions to be able to give classes at a cheap price to help Nicaraguans get out of poverty and unemployment. Moreover, they constantly are signing brotherhood contracts with other countries to continuously improve their efficiency. Also, they have training programs for 2% of employees in any enterprise. If you are interested in sponsoring INATEC or need information related to technical schools accreditation or technical programs, you can visit them at the Civic Center, U module or call to (505) 2254-4382.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE FOMENTO MUNICIPAL (INIFOM)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF MUNICIPAL FOMENT
This institute motivates and assists small entrepreneurs to develop their business ideas in the 153 municipalities of the country. The finality of this institute is to promote the institutional development of municipalities in general, the strengthening of local governments and municipal public administration. Also, INIFOM promotes citizens participation to decentralize and develop at a local level.
Among their functions is to assist in land divisions, investments and to help City Halls organize their budgets. Even though there are delegations of INIFOM throughout the country, their main office is located in Managua in the main entrance to “Los Arcos” Residential in the highway to the refinery. Also, you can call them at (505) 2266-6050.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE ENERGIA (INE)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF ENERGY
To guarantee the continuity, quality and quantity necessary of electricity and hydrocarbons derivatives is the main function of this institute. They supervise the enterprises which generate, transmit, distribute and commercialize electricity and hydrocarbons for Nicaraguans. Moreover, they vie for fair but sustainable prices in the long run. Their most important goal is to achieve the economic sustainable development of the energy sector in the country. However, they seek an eco-friendly and efficient development to guarantee Nicaraguans progress. You can contact them at (505) 2222-4864 in their main office located at Saint Dominique Barrio, from Loyola School 2 blocks west.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE ESTUDIOS TERRITORIALES (INETER)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF TERRITORIAL STUDIES
This institute is the technical and scientific entity of Nicaragua. They offer society basic cartographic, meteorological, hydrological and geological information. Also, they study and research the entire Nicaraguan environment, so they can help the social-economical development and reduce the vulnerability of natural disasters and permanently watch natural dangerous phenomena.
Moreover, they offer information about earthquakes, volcanoes and hurricanes. INETER’s main office is located in front of Metropoli Xolotlan Hospital. Their phone number is (505) 2249-2746.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE APOYO A LA PEQUEÑA Y MEDIANA EMPRESA (INPYME)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE TO SUPPORT SMALL AND MIDDLE ENTERPRISE
This institution is committed to the strengthening of competitiveness of INPYME, promotion and development for new projects. They execute policies, programs and projects oriented to small and medium enterprises. INPYME assists various sectors such as manufacturer, tourist, agro industry and technology and communications.
If you are starting a small business, you may want assistance from INPYME. They give technical support and development, they investigate markets and commercialization. They have delegations in the entire Pacific zone, Chontales, Boaco, Matagalpa, Jinotega, Estelí and Bluefields. You can contact them at (505) 2278-7836.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE SEGUROS Y REASEGUROS (INISER)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF INSURANCE AND RE-INSURANCES
INISER is an autonomous institution from the Estate. The Bank Superintendence allows this institute to provide insurance policies for people, construction and physical goods. Moreover, they act as reinsurer for other enterprises. Their main office is located in Camino de Oriente, Managua; their phone number is (505) 2267-2021.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE TECNOLOGÍA AGRARIA (INTA)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF AGRARIAN TECHNOLOGY
INTA is an institution of research and technological innovation that contributes to reduce poverty, alimentary and nutritional security of rural families. They place special emphasis in productive chains and in the integration and development of Caribbean Coast. Their main function is to generate, adapt and transfer farming and Forrestal technologies to Middle and Small producers, ethnic communities and Indian towns. Moreover, INTA fights to preserve land, water and forest through programs aiming women and young people in the country side. Their main office is in Central American Colony in Managua, next to the fifth police station. Also, you can contact them at (505) 2278-0469.
INTA studies different processes in agriculture to make sure that the final product is free from insecticides and other harmful products for health. Moreover, they carry the statistics on healthy products and efficient production. Also, this institute gives workshops and training to farmers on how to improve their quality.
INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE TURISMO (INTUR)
NICARAGUAN INSTITUTE OF TOURISM
INTUR’s main goal is to promote the sustainable development of the touristic sector for its importance for the national economy. Moreover, INTUR balances the human, ambient and economic aspects of the country to attract new tourists and to improve businesses competitiveness. This ministry especially emphasizes small and middle enterprises. All this has the purpose of diminish poverty levels and to improve quality life from all Nicaraguans.
For those investors interested in Nicaraguan tourism, INTUR is the first step in the process. INTUR handles the permissions for touristic businesses and gives information related to tourism. Moreover, they grant Operational Licenses for Tourist Enterprises and Activities. Furthermore, INTUR must assure that businesses established in Nicaragua follow the Behavior Conduct.
Also, they must carry all the statistics about tourist activities in the country. It has delegations in Chinandega, León, Managua, Granada, Masaya, Carazo, Rivas, Estelí, Somoto, Jinotega, Nueva Segovia, Matagalpa, Juigalpa, Rio San Juan, Bluefields and Puerto Cabezas. However, their main office is located from Hotel Crowne Plaza 1 block south and then 1 block west in Managua. Their phone number is (505) 2254-5191. Nevertheless, each delegation executes different programs throughout the country’s delegations to train people, to make people conscience about sustainable tourism to attend and to protect the tourist. Moreover, INTUR helps prevent sexual tourism. Most importantly, it must register, monitor and make sure Nicaraguan tourist quality continually improves.
MINISTERIO AGROPECUARIO Y FORESTAL (MAGFOR)
FARMING AND FORRESTAL MINISTRY
The main mission of MAGFOR is to formulate, monitor and evaluate the Forrestal and Farming policies to promote and assure the social, ambient, economic and productive improvement of Nicaraguan society. Moreover, they place special attention on medium and small producers and to national and international investors by implementing programs and projects that allow the sustainable development of the sector.
To contact them, you can call MAGFOR main office in Managua at (505) 2276-0200; this office is located in the Km 8 ½ in the Masaya-Managua highway. There are delegations in every department of Nicaragua. They are located in the departmental heads. Among their functions, there is to plan strategically the rural development. This includes the establishment of commerce policies, farming sanity and alimentary safety. Then, MAGFOR executes different programs such as the alimentary safety, territorial programming and production support.
Moreover, MAGFOR must take care of animals’ safety, vegetal and seeds sanity and control farming tools and prevent the use of toxic substances. They can handle all these programs in every delegation. Moreover, they work in conjunction with the Nicaraguan Institute of Farming Technology and with the National Forestry Institute, INTA and INAFOR respectively.
MINISTERIO DEL AMBIENTE Y RECURSOS NATURALES (MARENA)
MINISTRY OF AMBIENCE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
MARENA is in charge of the conservation, protection and adequate use of natural resources and environment. Also, it administers the National System of Protected Areas and coordinates with the National Ambience Information System, SINIA. This organization (SINIA) systematizes and divulges all the ambience information. Furthermore, MARENA works together with SINAPRED (National System of Disaster Prevention, Mitigation and Attention) to prevent disasters, emergencies or ambient contingencies. They also coordinate the planning and policies for the use of land, mines and quarry; hydrocarbon and geothermic; estate lands and forests; fish and superficial and underground resources.
MARENA offices are spread throughout the country but their main office is in Managua, in Km 12 ½ north highway. Certainly, there is one office in every department capital. In any MARENA’s office, you may apply if you want to hunt, denounce infractions against natural resources and any authorization that concerns the environment. Also, permissions for businesses that relate with the environmentare requested at MARENA. Furthermore, MARENA must give information to the public about marine turtles and other flora and fauna in the country.
Moreover, MARENA works with PIMCHAS (Integral Project of Hydrographic Basins, Water and Cleaning Management) to promote the sustainable use of natural resources and the provision of water and the cleaning of water sources.
MINISTERIO DE FOMENTO, INDUSTRIA Y COMERCIO (MIFIC)
MINISTRY OF ENCOURAGEMENT, INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE
This ministry is in charge of foreign commerce such as exports, imports, free trade zones. Their goal is to promote exports and bring imports for a fair price. They must also seek and attain foreign investment that would bring progress to Nicaragua. Most importantly, they handle the Free Trade Agreements with US and other countries. They have the Unique Investment Window, where they guarantee a fast and clear business creation, offering the investor a personalized high-quality service. Through this VUI (Unique Investment Window) they also help the investor in the acquisition of goods and services.
MIFIC gives free counseling to enterprises about required documentation, legal references, other institutions, contacts and liabilities. Moreover, they process complaints on the velocity or efficiency of MIFIC system. Most importantly, this ministry guides PYMES (Small and Medium enterprises) in an open market economy. To assist PYMES, the ministry of Foment, Industry and Commerce constantly reviews the Foment policies, coordinates, supervises and divulge the public and private efforts. They want competitive, high-quality PYMES to expand through the Free Trade Agreements with other countries.
MINISTERIO DE EDUCACIÓN (MINED) —MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
The continual improvement of the educative system is the purpose of the Ministry of Education. Productive, competitive and ethical citizens are our final task to contribute to our society. Moreover, through the current educational curriculum, we want to form independent Nicaraguans with the skills necessary to face globalization. Our goal is to provide students with civic, moral and cultural values and with a strong sense of national identity.
Since MINED handles educational issues, they extend the titles for elementary and high school and for undergraduate. If you need a validation of any title you acquire abroad from Nicaragua, you must go to MINED because they are the sole institution in charge of it.
MINISTERIO DE HACIENDA Y CRÉDITO PÚBLICO
MINISTRY OF FEDERAL INCOME AND PUBLIC CREDIT
The main goal of this ministry is to maintain macroeconomic stability by redistributing governmental income to government expenses in social programs that benefit Nicaraguans. Moreover, they must follow the National Plan of Human Development in an equal and transparent way. They are the government accountants. Their functions include the guarantee tributary policies coherent with economic growth, administration and control of the Internal and External Governmental Debt, administration of SIGADE (Negotiation System of Internal and External Public Debt), establishment of policies and procedures for governmental contracts and human resources. Moreover, they must administer the Integrated System of Administrative, Finance and Auditing Negotiation (SIGFA).
This ministry must solve administratively any claim or complaint about properties. Also, they are in charge of Customs and Budget Fiscals Policies in Nicaragua. Also, General Direction of Earnings and General Direction of Custom, DGI and DGA respectively, are part of this ministry.
MINISTERIO DE SALUD (MINSA)
MINISTRY OF HEALTH
MINSA’s main goal is to guarantee the free universal access to health services to all Nicaraguans. To accomplish this, the Ministry of Health promotes healthy lifestyles and practices. MINSA is in charge of public hospitals, health center and health posts. Through them, they freely give vaccines for children and treatments for several illnesses such as tuberculosis, HIV and flu. Moreover, they supervise private hospitals, health clinics and laboratories to assure the quality of their services.
Also, the sanitary department inspects different businesses such as restaurants, bars, hotels. These inspections guarantee that every commercial establishment follows sanity rules. Hence, if you are starting any business, you must get MINSA’s approval or training. They offer workshops on health measures for businesses. Their main office is located in the west side of May 1st Colony in Managua. You can contact it at (505) 2289-4700.
MINISTERIO DEL TRABAJO (MITRAB)
MINISTRY OF EMPLOYMENT
The main goal of this ministry is to empower the country and city workers to improve their working conditions by guaranteeing their rights and developing their labor and productive skills. As a consequence of this training, both businesses and employees will benefit economically. Moreover, MITRAB also determines the hygiene and security of workers, production and environment in general.
MITRAB supervises that enterprises in every sector follow the Worker’s Code. Hence, if you have a business of any type, you will certainly be visited by MITRAB inspectors. Moreover, employees submit their complaints, denounces and comments to this ministry. There are offices in every departmental head of Nicaragua. However, their main office is located from the National Stadium in Managua 300 meters towards north. For more information, you can contact (505) 2222-2115.
MINISTERIO DE RELACIONES EXTERIORES
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
As its name indicates, this ministry handles foreign affairs. They accredit ambassadors and international missions. Also, they select Nicaraguan representatives to speak to the world. Moreover, they deal with consulates and international missions and they sign cooperation agreements with other countries. Their main office of this ministry is located on Bolivar Avenue, from Gonzalez Theater 1 block south. Also, you can call at (505) 2244-8000.
MINISTERIO DE TRANSPORTE E INFRAESTRUCTURA (MTI)
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The main goal of MTI is to serve society and other economic sectors through the formulation of transportation and construction policies. Their role is to set standards, plan, execute, evaluate and control the activities related to vital infrastructure and transportation means to satisfy population and guarantee an efficient service.
Thus, MTI handles traffic issues: such as vehicles plaques, construction of new highways or streets and permissions for affecting regular traffic, both marine and land. Hence, MTI through the DGTT (General Direction of Terrestrial Transportation) issues certifications and permissions for new and former transport cooperatives. They set tariffs, traffic routes for buses and cars.
Moreover, if you are planning on building new houses or developing in urban zones, you must go to MTI. This is because MTI grants permissions, regulates and supervises the construction. They also check the quality of the building materials. Other departments of MTI are the General Direction of Construction Norms (DGNCTU) and the Vial General Direction (DGV). Their main office is located in front of the National Stadium in Managua; their phone is (505) 2222-5111.
In addition, DGTA (General Direction of Aquatic Transportation) is the maritime authority in Nicaragua but it is part of MTI. DGTA gives different courses on ocean survival, first aids, fire fighting, personal security and social responsibilities. They investigate marine accidents and incidents. Also, they give certifications for national and international ships. Most importantly, they look for the safety in ports and aquatic transportation.
PROCURADORIA PARA LA DEFENSA DE LOS DERECHOS HUMANOS
PROCURATOR FOR HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENSE
This institution fights for human rights. They make sure that every enterprise, business and sector of Nicaraguan society follows the international code of rights. The procurators handle any demand or complaint of rights violation. These violations can be against women, children and adolescence, people in jail, disabled people, ethnicities and seniors. You can contact calling to (505) 2266-0597 or going to their main office, from the Central Station of Firefighters 1 block west in Managua.
