Guatemala City Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, serves as the primary entry point for international travelers visiting the country. La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is the main gateway, handling the majority of international flights. Guatemala maintains a relatively open visa policy for tourists, with many nationalities enjoying visa-free access for short stays. The country is part of the Central America-4 (CA-4) Border Control Agreement, which allows free movement between Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua for tourism purposes. The immigration process at Guatemala City's airport is generally straightforward, though wait times can vary depending on flight arrivals. Travelers should be prepared to present valid travel documents, proof of onward travel, and demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay. Immigration officers may ask questions about the purpose and duration of your visit. It's important to note that Guatemala requires passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. Before traveling to Guatemala City, ensure you understand the specific requirements for your nationality, have all necessary documentation prepared, and are aware of current health regulations. Currency can be exchanged at the airport, and ATMs are readily available. The official currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ), though US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Always keep your immigration stamp and tourist card safe, as you'll need to present them when departing the country.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Guatemala offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries for tourism purposes. The visa policy is generally welcoming to international visitors, with most tourists from developed nations able to enter without prior visa arrangements for stays up to 90 days within the CA-4 region.

Visa-Free Entry

90 days within the CA-4 region (Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua combined)

Citizens of these countries can enter Guatemala without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

United States Canada United Kingdom All European Union member states Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Switzerland Norway Israel Argentina Brazil Chile Costa Rica Mexico Panama Uruguay South Africa Singapore Malaysia

The 90-day period applies to the entire CA-4 region, not each country individually. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be required.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type, typically 30-90 days for tourist visas

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must obtain a visa before traveling

Includes

Afghanistan Bangladesh China (PRC) Cuba Eritrea Ethiopia Ghana India Iran Iraq Jordan Kenya Lebanon Nepal Nigeria North Korea Pakistan Palestinian Territories Somalia Sri Lanka Syria Vietnam Yemen

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Guatemalan embassy or consulate in your country. Applications typically require a completed form, passport photos, valid passport, proof of accommodation, return ticket, bank statements, and visa fee payment. Processing time is usually 5-15 business days.

Requirements vary by nationality. Some countries may be eligible for visa on arrival in special circumstances. Always check with the Guatemalan embassy or consulate in your country for the most current requirements and fees.

Special Cases

90 days within the CA-4 region

Holders of valid US, Canadian, UK, EU Schengen, or Japanese visas

How to Apply: Citizens of visa-required countries who hold valid visas from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union (Schengen), or Japan may be eligible for visa-free entry to Guatemala

The visa must be valid and may need to be a multiple-entry visa. This policy can change, so verify with Guatemalan immigration authorities before travel. Passport must still be valid for 6 months beyond entry.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, travelers will proceed through immigration and customs. The process is typically efficient, though lines can be longer during peak arrival times. Have all documents ready and be prepared to answer questions about your visit.

Disembark and Follow Signs

After landing, follow signs to 'Migracion' (Immigration). The airport is well-marked in Spanish and English.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, completed immigration form (usually provided on the flight), and any required documents. The officer will stamp your passport and may issue a tourist card. They may ask about your accommodation, length of stay, and purpose of visit.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Carts are available for a small fee or free depending on the terminal area.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if you have items to declare. Proceed through the customs area where you may be randomly selected for bag inspection (often via a traffic light system - green means pass, red means inspection).

Exit to Arrivals Hall

Once cleared, exit to the main arrivals hall where you'll find currency exchange, ATMs, tourist information, taxis, and car rental services.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Guatemala. Should have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Guatemala or the CA-4 region. This can be a flight, bus, or other transportation ticket. Immigration may request to see this.

Immigration Form

Usually distributed on the flight or available at immigration. Fill out completely and accurately before reaching the immigration counter.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, hostel booking, or letter of invitation if staying with friends/family. May be requested but not always required.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but good to have available.

Customs Declaration Form

Required if you're bringing items that need to be declared, such as amounts over the duty-free allowance or restricted items.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching immigration. This speeds up the process significantly.

Be honest and polite with immigration officers. Answer questions directly and confidently.

Keep your immigration stamp and tourist card safe - you'll need to present them when leaving the country. Losing them can result in fines and delays.

Download offline maps and have your hotel address written down in Spanish, as internet may not be immediately available.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate expenses, but better rates are usually available in the city.

Official airport taxis are safer than unofficial ones. Look for authorized taxi stands inside the arrivals hall.

If you're continuing to other CA-4 countries (El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua), remember that your 90 days covers all four countries combined, not each individually.

Take a photo of your passport information page and entry stamp as a backup.

Customs & Duty-Free

Guatemala's customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal imports while allowing reasonable personal items for travelers. All arriving passengers must complete a customs declaration form. Guatemala uses a random inspection system at many entry points - after declaring items, you may press a button or walk through an automated system that randomly selects passengers for bag inspection.

Alcohol

3 liters of alcoholic beverages

Must be 18 years or older. Bottles should be unopened for duty-free consideration.

Tobacco

80 cigarettes or 100 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only.

Currency

Amounts over US$10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Both cash and monetary instruments must be declared. There's no limit on how much you can bring, but amounts over the threshold must be declared on entry and exit to prevent money laundering.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and used items for personal use are generally exempt. New items up to approximately US$500 may be allowed

Items must be reasonable for the length of stay. Commercial quantities will be taxed. Electronics, cameras, and laptops for personal use are typically allowed.

Perfume

2 bottles of perfume or cologne (reasonable quantity for personal use)

Should be opened or clearly for personal use to avoid commercial classification.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Guatemala has strict drug laws with severe penalties
Firearms and ammunition - without prior authorization from Guatemalan authorities
Explosives and fireworks - strictly prohibited
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items, pirated media
Obscene or pornographic materials - subject to Guatemalan standards
Archaeological artifacts - Guatemala strictly protects cultural heritage
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals or plants under CITES
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and plant materials - agricultural restrictions apply
Meat and dairy products - from most countries due to disease prevention
Soil and biological materials - without proper permits

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only what you need with original packaging and doctor's prescription. Large quantities may require special documentation
Professional equipment - cameras, drones, and professional video equipment may require temporary import permits for commercial use
Pets - require health certificates, rabies vaccination records, and import permits (see Special Situations section)
Plants and seeds - require phytosanitary certificates from the country of origin
Certain foods - packaged and commercially sealed foods are generally allowed, but fresh items are restricted
Radio transmitters and communications equipment - may require authorization
Drones - recreational drones may be allowed but commercial use requires permits; restrictions apply near airports and government buildings

Health Requirements

Guatemala has specific health requirements for entry, particularly regarding vaccinations. While some vaccinations are mandatory only for travelers from certain regions, others are strongly recommended for all visitors due to health risks present in the country.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission (including transit stops over 12 hours). This includes many countries in South America and sub-Saharan Africa. Proof of vaccination (International Certificate of Vaccination) must be presented at immigration.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to food and water contamination risks
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Hepatitis B - Recommended for those who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Rabies - Recommended for travelers spending time in rural areas or working with animals
Routine vaccinations - Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines including MMR, DPT, chickenpox, polio, and yearly flu shot
COVID-19 - Recommended to be fully vaccinated and boosted according to current guidelines

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Guatemala City are adequate for routine care, but serious conditions may require medical evacuation. Ensure your insurance covers medical treatment, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation. Many hospitals require payment upfront or proof of insurance before treatment. US Medicare and Medicaid do not provide coverage outside the United States.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly, particularly regarding COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. As of late 2024, Guatemala has relaxed most COVID-19 entry requirements, but travelers should verify current regulations before departure. Check the official Guatemalan Ministry of Health website and your country's travel advisory for the latest information on testing, vaccination certificates, health declarations, or quarantine requirements. Consider malaria prophylaxis if traveling to rural areas below 1,500 meters elevation, though Guatemala City itself is not in a malaria zone.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Guatemala City for assistance with lost passports, emergencies, or citizen services

Register with your embassy's travel registration system before traveling. US citizens can use the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Keep embassy contact information readily available.

Immigration Authority - Instituto Guatemalteco de Migración

Official immigration office for visa extensions, immigration questions, and official information

Located in Guatemala City. For visa extensions beyond 90 days or immigration status questions. Website: www.migracion.gob.gt

Emergency Services

Dial 110 for police, 122 or 123 for fire department, 125 or 128 for ambulance

INGUAT (Tourist Police) can be reached at 1500 or 2421-2810 for tourist-specific assistance. English-speaking operators may not always be available.

La Aurora International Airport

Airport information and services: +502 2332-6085

For flight information, lost and found, and airport services. Website: www.dgac.gob.gt

INGUAT (Guatemalan Tourism Institute)

Tourist information and assistance: 1500 (toll-free within Guatemala) or +502 2421-2800

Offices at the airport and in Zone 4 of Guatemala City. Provides maps, tourist information, and can assist with complaints about tourist services.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents may need additional documentation. If traveling with only one parent, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) in Spanish, including contact information and authorizing the child to travel. If the child is traveling with someone other than a parent, both parents should provide notarized consent letters. Birth certificates may also be requested. Guatemala takes child trafficking seriously, so be prepared for additional questions at immigration. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. These requirements are strictly enforced and failure to provide proper documentation can result in denied entry or exit.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) require several documents for entry: (1) International Health Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, (2) Rabies vaccination certificate showing vaccination at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry, (3) Certificate stating the animal is free from infectious diseases, (4) Import permit from Guatemala's Ministry of Agriculture (MAGA) - can be obtained in advance or sometimes at the airport. Pets must be inspected upon arrival. Airlines have their own pet travel requirements that must also be met. Some breeds may be restricted. Pet carriers must meet international standards. There may be fees for inspection and processing. Service animals have different requirements - contact the Guatemalan embassy for specific guidance.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas allow 90 days within the CA-4 region. To extend your stay, you have several options: (1) Apply for an extension at the Immigration Office (Instituto Guatemalteco de Migración) in Guatemala City before your 90 days expire - extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials and typically cost around US$20-50 for an additional 90 days, (2) Exit the CA-4 region entirely (to Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, or Panama) and return for a new 90-day period - however, immigration officials may deny re-entry if they suspect visa runs, (3) Apply for a temporary residence visa if you plan to stay longer term - this requires demonstrating economic solvency or purpose (work, study, retirement, etc.) and involves more extensive documentation. Overstaying your visa results in fines (approximately US$10 per month overstayed) and potential deportation or entry bans. For work, study, or business activities beyond tourism, you must obtain the appropriate visa before engaging in these activities.

Business Travel

Business visitors can enter on tourist visas for business meetings, conferences, and negotiations, but cannot engage in paid employment or provide services. For business activities, bring: (1) Letter from your employer explaining the purpose of visit, (2) Invitation letter from Guatemalan business partner or conference organizer, (3) Proof of business registration. If you need to work or provide services in Guatemala, you must obtain a work visa before arrival, which requires a job offer from a Guatemalan company and approval from immigration authorities. Business equipment may require temporary import documentation.

Students and Volunteers

Students planning to study in Guatemala must obtain a student visa before arrival or convert their tourist visa after entry. Requirements include: (1) Acceptance letter from a Guatemalan educational institution, (2) Proof of financial means, (3) Police clearance certificate, (4) Medical certificate. Volunteers should check if their activities require a work permit or can be done on a tourist visa - some volunteer work with registered NGOs may be permitted on tourist visas, but paid positions or long-term volunteering typically require proper visas. Contact the Guatemalan embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements based on your program.

Dual Nationals

If you hold both Guatemalan citizenship and another nationality, Guatemala requires you to enter and exit using your Guatemalan passport. This is strictly enforced. If you're a naturalized citizen of another country but were born in Guatemala, you may still be considered a Guatemalan citizen. Contact the Guatemalan embassy to clarify your status before travel. Dual nationals may face additional questioning about their citizenship status.