Visas for Guatemala
The nationals of 86 countries can stay in Guatemala for a maximum period of 90 days without a visa of any kind. If you are a passport holder of one of the countries which are not exempted from the necessity to present a visa when entering Guatemala, here is an overview of the main visas available to foreigners willing to travel to Guatemala.
Short-term visas for Guatemala
The most common visas used to enter the Guatemalan territory are short-term visas, valid 90 days.
Short-term visas come in two types: the tourist visa, granted for leisure and recreational purposes only, does not allow you to perform any work-related activities in Guatemala, while the business visa will let you do business in the country.
To apply for a tourist or business visa, reach out to the nearest consular or diplomatic mission of Guatemala with the following documents:
- A duly filled application form;
- a passport sized photo;
- a passport valid for the length of your stay, with a full blank page at least;
- evidence of a return ticket and of accommodation during your stay Guatemala;
- evidence of sufficient funds to cover expenses during your stay in the country;
- evidence of international travel insurance coverage valid in Guatemala for the duration of your stay; and
- personal or business references (like a letter from your employer, or an invitation from a Guatemalan company or organisation).
These short-term visas can be extended once for an additional 90 days, but the process involves a good deal of red tape.
Student visa
Once you have been admitted into a Guatemalan school or university, and if your study program spans more than 3 months, you should apply for a student visa in Guatemala by submitting the following documents to the nearest embassy or consulate of Guatemala:
- A visa application form
- Your passport, along with a certified copy
- A recent photograph
- A letter of authorisation from your parents if you are underage
- A letter of acceptance from your host school
- A clean police record if you are of age
- Evidence of sufficient funds
A handful of other specific visas (visas for diplomatic passport-holders, visas for spouses or civil companions of Guatemalan citizens, etc.) exist, contact the nearest consular or diplomatic mission of Guatemala for more detailed information.
Visa agreement between Guatemala and neighbouring countries
Guatemala was signatory to a 2006 immigration treaty with several neighbouring countries: El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Under this agreement, which creates a free travel zone, foreigners can use a single entry visa to explore all four countries for a total maximum duration of three months.
Useful links:
List of Guatemalan diplomatic or consular missions
Embassy of Guatemala in London
Consulate general of Guatemala in New York
