Nicaragua 1987 Constitution (reviewed 2014) - Page 4 of 12

Table of Contents

TITLE III. NICARAGUAN NATIONALITY

SOLE CHAPTER

Article 15

Nicaraguans are either nationals or nationalized individuals.

Article 16

Nationals are:

Those born in the national territory, with the exception of children of foreigners in diplomatic service, children of foreign officials serving in international organizations or of individuals sent by their government to work in Nicaragua, unless they opt for the Nicaraguan nationality;
The children of a Nicaraguan father or mother;
Those born abroad to fathers or mothers who originally were Nicaraguan, if and when they apply for Nicaraguan nationality after reaching legal age or independence;
Infants of unknown parents found in Nicaraguan territory, subject to corrections which may become necessary once their true descent becomes known;
Children born to foreign parents on board Nicaraguan aircrafts or vessels, if and when they apply for Nicaraguan nationality.

Article 17

Native born Central Americans who reside in Nicaragua have the right to opt for Nicaraguan nationality and may apply for it before the competent authority without having to renounce their prior nationality.

Article 18

The National Assembly may grant nationality to foreigners who have distinguished themselves through extraordinary service rendered to Nicaragua.

Article 19

Foreigners may be nationalized on application to the competent authority after having renounced their nationality, subject to the fulfillment of the requirements and conditions established by the applicable law.