Discover Guatemala
Guatemala, the heart of the Mayan world, captivates with its ancient ruins like Tikal, vibrant markets, and volcanic landscapes. In 2025, travelers from over 80 countries enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days under the CA-4 Border Control Agreement or bilateral pacts, while others can obtain a visa on arrival or pre-apply at Guatemalan consulates, reflecting a balance of regional openness and controlled access.
Required Documents
Valid Passport
Must be valid for 6+ months beyond entry with 1 blank page.
Tourist Visa (if required)
Visa on arrival ($25 USD) or pre-apply at Guatemalan consulates; no online option.
Passport Photo
2 recent photos (2 x 2 inches, white background) for consulate visa applications.
Travel Itinerary
Proof of return or onward ticket, required at entry.
Accommodation Proof
Hotel booking or host details, recommended for entry and visa.
Travel Insurance
Recommended; covers medical emergencies (not mandatory).
Proof of Funds
Evidence of $50 USD/day (cash, card, or statement), may be requested at entry.
Visa Fee (if applicable)
Visa-free: Free; visa on arrival: $25 USD; consulate visa: $25-$50 USD.
How to Apply
Application Steps
Check Eligibility
Gather Documents
Apply for Visa (if needed)
Submit & Pay
Processing
Receive Visa
Enter Guatemala
Check Eligibility
Gather Documents
Apply for Visa (if needed)
Submit & Pay
Processing
Receive Visa
Enter Guatemala
1. Check Eligibility
Confirm if visa-free (e.g., USA, EU), visa on arrival (e.g., India), or consulate visa required (e.g., Cuba).
2. Gather Documents
Prepare passport, itinerary, funds proof, and photos if applying for a visa.
3. Apply for Visa (if needed)
Obtain visa on arrival with $25 USD or pre-apply at a Guatemalan consulate 2+ weeks prior.
4. Submit & Pay
Pay $25 USD for visa on arrival or $25-$50 USD at consulate; visa-free entry is free.
5. Processing
Visa on arrival: Immediate; consulate visa: 5-10 business days; visa-free: immediate at entry.
6. Receive Visa
Get visa stamped on arrival or collect from consulate; visa-free travelers enter directly.
7. Enter Guatemala
Present passport, visa (if required), and itinerary at entry; 90-day CA-4 stay granted.
Visa Fees
- Visa-free entry (90 days, CA-4): Free for 80+ countries (e.g., USA, EU, Canada)
- Visa on Arrival (90 days): $25 USD (e.g., India, Philippines)
- Consulate Visa (single-entry, 90 days): $25 USD
- Consulate Visa (multiple-entry, 1 year): $50 USD
- Extension (additional 90 days): Free within CA-4, apply at Migración
*Fees subject to change. Confirm details at migracion.gob.gt.
FAQ
Do I need a visa for Guatemala in 2025?
Over 80 countries (e.g., USA, EU) are visa-free for 90 days under CA-4; others get visa on arrival or consulate visa.
What’s the CA-4 agreement?
Visa-free travel for 90 days across Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua with one entry.
Can I extend my stay in Guatemala?
Yes, extend 90-day stay by another 90 days free within CA-4 at Migración y Extranjería.
What’s Guatemala’s passport rank in 2025?
Ranked 35th globally, with visa-free access to 134 destinations (Henley Passport Index).
Is a yellow fever vaccine required?
Yes, if arriving from risk countries (e.g., Brazil); certificate required at entry.
References
- Guatemalan Immigration (Migración): migracion.gob.gt
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs: minex.gob.gt
- Guatemala Tourism (INGUAT): visitguatemala.com