Press release

Embassy Phone System Down

May 21, 2007

The U.S. Embassy in Managua informs the public that due to a lightning strike at approximately 7:15 p.m. on Thursday May 17, we are experiencing serious difficulties with our internal telephone system.  We expect the repair process to take a few more days, and ask the public for patience.  We regret any inconvenience this has caused.

The following six phone numbers for the general switchboard can take incoming calls.  Due to the limited capacity, the lines are likely to be busy, so please continue to call back if you have an emergency.  Please note that the operators cannot transfer calls within the Embassy, and can only take written messages to pass on.  Working phone numbers: 

266-6010     
266-2298                   NOTE:  these phone lines will only be answered
266-6012                             between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
266-6013     
266-6015
266-6016

Consular services: 

- We strongly encourage the public to use e-mail for consular inquiries by sending a message to:  consularmanagua@state.gov. 

- American citizens who need emergency assistance may call 266-9943. 

- Immigrant visa applicants may fax us their requests for appointments at:  266-6034.  The cover sheet should clearly indicate “consular - immigrant visa unit”.

- Routine information about visas, passports and other consular services is available online at nicaragua.usembassy.gov.

- We remind the public that the wait for a visa appointment is approximately three weeks, and that all application form MUST be filled out entirely in English.