Planning a trip to Guatemala? By the end of this guide, you’ll understand who needs a visa, how to apply, your rights under the CA-4 Agreement, overstaying penalties, e-visa options, health requirements, rules for minors and travelers with criminal records, and where to turn if you need consular help.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Guatemala?
Guatemala offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 80 countries for stays up to 90 days. If your nationality isn’t on the exempt list, you must obtain a tourist visa in advance.
- Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry.
- Present a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds (about US $100 per day).
The CA-4 Agreement
Guatemala participates in the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement with El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua. A single entry stamp grants up to 90 days across all four countries—you won’t need a new visa when crossing internal borders.
Required Documents and How to Apply
Whether you apply at a consulate or online, you’ll typically need:
- Scanned passport data page
- Recent passport-style photo
- Proof of hotel reservation or invitation letter
- Return/onward flight itinerary
- Bank statement or credit card copy
E-Visa Option
Nationals of select countries can apply for an electronic tourist visa, speeding up processing and avoiding embassy visits. You submit documents online, pay fees with a credit card, and receive an e-visa by email.
Fees, Processing Times and Extensions
- Standard tourist visa fee: US $25–$40, depending on nationality.
- Processing at a consulate: 5–10 business days.
- E-visa processing: 3–5 business days.
If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you can request a single 90-day extension at the Dirección General de Migración in Guatemala City. Extensions carry a fee of about US $30 and are granted at officials’ discretion.
Overstaying Penalties and Transit Rules
Overstaying your permitted period incurs fines of roughly Q25 (about US $3.25) per day. Severe overstays may lead to a temporary ban on re-entry.
If you’re only transiting through Guatemala en route to another country and remain airside for under 12 hours, you typically don’t need a visa. Always confirm with your airline.
Health and Vaccination Requirements
Beyond COVID-19 screening, travelers arriving from countries where yellow fever is endemic must show proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Special Rules for Minors and Travelers with Criminal Records
Minors traveling alone or with one parent need:
1. A notarized consent letter from the absent parent(s)
2. A copy of the birth certificate
Applicants from certain countries must present a police-record certificate showing no criminal convictions within the past five years. Check with your nearest consulate.
Consular Support When You’re Abroad
If you lose your passport, fall ill, or face legal trouble, Guatemalan embassies and consulates can:
– Issue emergency travel documents
– Provide lists of local lawyers and doctors
– Assist with repatriation arrangements
Locate the nearest mission via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs site.
Your Grand Finale
Now you know how to secure a Guatemala tourist visa, navigate the CA-4 Agreement, handle health rules, and avoid fines. With this roadmap, you’re set to enjoy volcanoes, colonial towns and Mayan ruins without visa headaches. Safe travels!