According to the Nicaraguan newspaper La Prensa, despite North American sanctions on the businessmen behind the charters from Havana to Managua, thousands of Cubans continue to arrive in this Central American country. In addition, they detailed, a (somewhat new) entry requirement for international travelers, including Cubans.
The report indica that since the United States imposed visa restrictions on flight operators that collaborate with irregular migration, several airlines such as Conviasa and Aruba have published the flight schedule they will make between Cuba and Managua in January 2024.
These flights with Cubans are added to those of other companies that transport migrants, such as Albatros that flies to Managua from Curacao.
On the other hand, the Managua International Airport, Augusto C. Sandino, updated its website and in its English version it now shows the rates it charges for the different services it provides to private flights, including charter flights that carry passengers. Also a new payment requirement, upon entry to Nicaragua, which includes Cubans.
Cubans: entry requirement to Nicaragua
As is known, since the end of 2021, Cubans can travel to Nicaragua without needing a visa and take advantage of the Conviasa and Aruba flights that connect Havana with Managua.
This has caused an unprecedented wave of migration of Cubans seeking to reach the United States by land. Hundreds of thousands have achieved it since that date. Currently, the business has expanded to other countries such as Haiti, Africa and Asia.
On the other hand, Managua International Airport has updated its website in English and shows the prices of thirty services it offers to private flights, such as landing, parking, transportation, lighting, luggage, water and more .
In addition, he also reported a new requirement, since foreigners must pay a ten-dollar tourist fee when entering the country, except citizens of Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. So Cubans are required to pay this payment upon entry.
However, given the level of corruption, international sources speak of an illegal practice carried out at the Augusto C. Sandino airport, which is the charging of an arbitrary fee to migrants arriving in the country. According to two sources close to the place, travelers must pay between $150 and $200 to enter. In other words, they multiply the rate.
