A historical building with large domes and columns in Nicaragua is shown under a clear blue sky. The Nicaraguan flag flies on a pole in the foreground. The image includes the text "BizLatin Hub - Nicaragua," highlighting expertise in company formation in Nicaragua.

Company Formation in Nicaragua: A Six-Step Guide

Company formation in Nicaragua is the first step to entering this market with immense potential. In these six steps below, we’ll explain what investors need to do to establish their business in Nicaragua. From navigating the legal requirements to understanding the tax implications, our guide provides comprehensive assistance to ensure a smooth and successful incorporation process in Nicaragua.

Whether you are a local entrepreneur looking to expand your business or an international investor seeking new opportunities, Nicaragua offers a welcoming environment for growth and prosperity. It has steady economic growth, security and a strategic location. company formation in Nicaragua, with the right advice, can be a smooth process.

That’s where Biz Latin Hub steps in. We are experts in Latin America and the Caribbean, so we can help with company formation in Nicaragua or any other interests you may have in the region. Investors can take advantage of the growing middle class, thriving tourism and government incentives that boost various sectors.

Why is company formation in Nicaragua a good idea?

Nicaragua is a country that is looking to the future. It’s true that the country lags behind its neighbors on a number of economic indicators, but that is simply a sign of the wealth that awaits early adopters. After all, it has no fewer natural resources.

The country is ideal for nearshoring as company formation in Nicaragua means easy logistical connection to North America, South America and Asia. With wages remaining competitive as well, it’s clear to see the potential available in the country.

Infographic titled "Doing Business in Nicaragua" showcasing a map of Managua, the capital city. Highlights include a population of 6,948,392, GDP of 15.67 billion, GNI per capita of 14.5 billion, and FDI inflows of 8.3. Major exports: gold, knit T-shirts, insulated wire, coffee, frozen bovine meat.
Company formation in Nicaragua opens up this growing economy

How does company formation in Nicaragua work?

An infographic titled "6 Steps for Company Formation in Nicaragua" outlines: 1. Draft Act of Incorporation. 2. Buy Accounting and Corporate Books. 3. Submit Act of Incorporation at VUI. 4. Register as a Trader and Accounting Books. 5. Obtain the Single Registration Document (DUR). 6. Legal Representation, featuring BizLatin Hub branding and contact
6 steps of company formation in Nicaragua

To set up a company in Nicaragua you must follow these 6 steps:

  • Step 1 – Draft Act of Incorporation.
  • Step 2 – Buy Accounting and Corporate Books.
  • Step 3 – Submit Act of Incorporation at VUI.
  • Step 4 – Register as a Trader and Register Accounting Books.
  • Step 5 – Obtain the Single Registration Document.
  • Step 6 – Legal Representation.

Step 1: Draft Act of Incorporation:

The drafting of an Act of Incorporation requires at least two shareholders, either individuals or corporations and a minimum start-up capital of C$10,000 (approximately US$400). A legal representative with a Nicaraguan residency must be appointed. Additionally, the final act must be authorized and certified by a Nicaraguan public notary.

Step 2: Buy Accounting and Corporate Books:

These books are required for the registration of a company and may be acquired at local bookstores.

Step 3: Submit Act of Incorporation at VUI:

These documents are received at the Ventanilla Unica de Inversiones (Investment Service) and processed by the Commercial Registry. They require a payment of 1% of the company’s capital but up to a maximum of C$30,000 (approximately USD$1,200).

Step 4: Register as a Trader and Register Accounting Books:

Once the act of incorporation has been processed, one must register as a trader and also register the accounting books with the Commercial Registry. This procedure is also done at the VUI.

Step 5: Obtain the Single Registration Document: 

This procedure may be done simultaneously with the previous one. This document is completed and submitted at the VUI and through it the investor receives the Municipal License, the License of the Nicaraguan Social Security Institute (INSS, for its acronym in Spanish), and the Tax Payer Registration (RUC, for its acronym in Spanish) of the General Revenue Department. The DUR requires a payment of 1% of the company’s capital.

For a corporation, shareholders must appoint a legal representative, who must be a Nicaraguan Resident or Citizen residing in the country. Choosing a trusted individual is crucial. The representative’s powers may be limited by the Board of Directors as deemed reasonable.

Infographic titled "Managua, Nicaragua strategic location" with a map showing travel times by air to various cities: Guatemala City (1h 14m), Mexico City (2h 25m), San Salvador (55m), San José (55m), Panama City (1h 40m), and Bogotá (5h 7m). Includes data: FDI inflows: USD
Company formation in Nicaragua puts you in a strategic position

FAQs on company formation in Nicaragua

According to our experience, these are the most common questions and doubts of our clients when considering company formation in Nicaragua.

Can a foreigner have a business in Nicaragua?

Yes, foreigners can own and operate businesses in Nicaragua. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of businesses in Nicaragua.

What is the Nicaragua Company Tax ID?

In Nicaragua, for companies and individuals engaging in commercial activities, it is mandatory to register in the Single Registry of Taxpayers and acquire a Taxpayer Identification Number, commonly referred to as RUC (registro único de contribuyente) in Spanish.

How long does it take to register a company in Nicaragua?

The process of incorporating a company in Nicaragua, once the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws have been finalized and signed, typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. After this process, you can begin carrying out the various activities for which you established the company and apply for any applicable incentives.

What does “S.A.” mean in Nicaragua?

In Nicaragua, S.A. stands for Sociedad Anónima, which tis similar to an LLC. This legal structure separates the company from its shareholders, each of whom owns shares representing their ownership stake. The financial liability of shareholders is limited to the value of their shares.

What does “Compañía Colectiva” mean in Nicaragua?

This is is a partnership where there must be a minimum of 2 natural persons as partners. The business name of the Compañía Colectiva is a listing of the names of all the partners or some of them, with the addition of the words y Compañía. This legal entity offers limited liability to its shareholders, similar to S.A. companies, as long as the word limitada is added to the business name.

What types of entities offer Limited Liability in Nicaragua?

In Nicaragua, both S.A. (Sociedad Anónima) and Compañía Colectiva (Compañía Colectiva Limitada) are legal entity types that offer limited liability to their shareholders.

What are the Key differences between SA and CCL in Nicaragua?

CCLSA
ShareholdersMinimum of two shareholders; single-member companies are not allowed in Nicaragua.
ManagementManaged by one or more partners.Requires the election of a board of directors from among the shareholders.
LiabilityLiable only up to the monetary value of their contributions.Liable only up to the value of their shares.
Company SizeSuitable for smaller companies; partners’ identities are disclosed.Preferable for larger companies to safeguard shareholder and director anonymity.
Regulatory RequirementsClosely tied to the collective partners.More impersonal, often favoring management.

Biz Latin Hub can help with company formation in Nicaragua

At Biz Latin Hub, we offer a comprehensive range of market entry and back-office solutions in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

We have expertise in company formation/incorporation in Nicaragua, with legal services, accounting and taxation, hiring, and visa processing available. 

We retain a large presence in LATAM with strong partnerships throughout the region. This far-reaching network gives us lots of tools to help with international projects and entering new markets in different countries.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your business goals in Latin America and the Caribbean.

If this article on company formation/incorporation in Nicaragua grabbed your attention, check out the rest of our coverage of the region. Or read about our team and expert authors.

A visual listing the services provided by Biz Latin Hub. The services include Company Formation, Legal Services, Accounting & Taxation, PEO & Recruitment, Bank Account Opening, Tax Advisory, and Visa Processing. Contact information is shown at the bottom right.
Biz Latin Hub services can help with company formation in Nicaragua

The information provided here within should not be construed as formal guidance or advice. Please consult a professional for your specific situation. Information provided is for informative purposes only and may not capture all pertinent laws, standards, and best practices. The regulatory landscape is continually evolving; information mentioned may be outdated and/or could undergo changes. The interpretations presented are not official. Some sections are based on the interpretations or views of relevant authorities, but we cannot ensure that these perspectives will be supported in all professional settings.
Craig Dempsey
Craig Dempsey

Craig is a seasoned business professional in Latin America. He is the Managing Director and Co-Founder of the Biz Latin Hub Group that specializes in the provision market entry and back office services. Craig holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering, with honors and a Master's Degree in Project Management from the University of New South Wales. Craig is also an active board member on the Australian Colombian Business Council, and likewise also active with the Australian Latin American Business Council.

Craig is also a military veteran, having served in the Australian military on numerous overseas missions and also a former mining executive with experience in various overseas jurisdictions, including, Canada, Australia, Peru and Colombia.

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