Guatemalan visa resources
How to apply for a Guatemalan visa or residence
An overview of how visa and residence applications are made to the IGM and Guatemalan consulates, and the general order of steps.
Important
Guatemala classifies nationalities into three categories under its visa regulation. Category A nationals are exempt from a visa and receive an entry stamp on arrival. Category B nationals need a consular visa obtained at a Guatemalan embassy or consulate before travelling. Category C nationals need a 'consulted' visa, which requires prior authorisation from the IGM before it can be issued.
Consular visas (tourist/visitor, business, student, and consultation visas) are lodged at the Guatemalan diplomatic or consular mission covering your place of residence, using the IGM application form and supporting documents. For Category C nationalities the consulate forwards the file to the IGM for authorisation before the visa is stamped.
Residence (extranjería) applications — temporary residence, permanent residence and their extensions — are handled inside Guatemala through the IGM's Subdirección de Extranjería. Naturalisation is applied for separately through the civil/foreign-affairs process once the qualifying residence period is met.
Next steps
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.