Managua, November 22 (EFE). The Nicaraguan government on Monday approved the “free visa” for Cuban citizens as a “humanitarian” measure for Cubans who have relatives in the Central American country.

The decision of the Nicaraguan Ministry of the Interior, which came into effect today and was issued tonight, aims to facilitate business trips and family tourism.

“In view of the number of applications submitted by brothers of Cuban citizens who have relatives in Nicaragua, and in order to promote trade exchange, tourism and human family relations, as of Monday, November 22, 2021, a free visa has been established for all Cuban citizens who wish to enter Nicaragua,” on In the words of the Ministry of the Interior.

With this decision, Cubans will no longer have to pay the equivalent of $17.85 for the consulted visa that extends Nicaragua to the island, which lasts for 30 days, extendable to 90 days.

The cancellation of a Cuba visa also means that islanders will not need to explain the reason for travel in order to obtain permission to travel to Nicaragua.

The Nicaraguan authorities have not informed whether Cubans must adhere to epidemic measures to enter Nicaragua, such as testing negative for COVID-19 for a maximum of three days, or pre-screening seven days in advance.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was common to see Cuban citizens crowded into Augusto C Sandino International Airport, lining up to return to Havana with their many shopping bags.

Nicaragua and Cuba have enjoyed close political relations every time President Daniel Ortega has ruled the Central American country, first between 1979 and 1990, and then since 2007.

Both countries are part of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of America – Peoples Trade Treaty (Alba-TCP). EFE

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