Guatemala visas
Whether you need a visa for Guatemala depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip: nationals of many countries enter visa-free as tourists, while others must obtain a consular or consulted visa before travelling. Guatemala's migration system is administered by the Instituto Guatemalteco de Migración (IGM), which issues entry visas, residence permits and extensions, while naturalisation is handled through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and civil authorities. Always confirm the current rule for your nationality and category with the IGM before you travel or apply.
Guatemalan visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Guatemala — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.3 visas
- Work visasComing to Guatemala to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Guatemala — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Guatemala.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Guatemala as a highly skilled individual.3 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Guatemala long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.3 visas
Guatemalan visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Guatemala — key facts
- Visa authority
- Instituto Guatemalteco de Migración (IGM)
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ)
- Time zone
- Central Standard Time (UTC−6)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.