Skip to content

Residence & citizenship

Guatemalan Naturalisation (Guatemalan citizenship)

Acquiring Guatemalan nationality by naturalisation after qualifying residence, with a privileged regime for Central Americans, Ibero-Americans and Spaniards.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Book a consultation

Under review — check current rules

Exact residence-period exceptions, fees and the current procedural steps for naturalisation should be verified against the Nationality Law and current MINEX/Gobernación guidance.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Guatemala government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Nacionalidad guatemalteca por naturalización
Route type
Naturalisation / citizenship
General residence requirement
5 years as a registered domiciled foreigner
Privileged regime
Central American, Ibero-American and Spanish nationals

Who it is for

  • Long-term foreign residents of Guatemala meeting the qualifying residence period.
  • Central American, Ibero-American and Spanish nationals under the privileged regime.

Requirements

  • Registration as a domiciled foreigner for at least five years (certified by Migración/RENAP).
  • Valid foreign passport, criminal and police record certificates, and a migratory-movement certificate.
  • Evidence of a lawful profession or occupation and proof of the annual foreigner-fee payment.
  • Witnesses in support and a memorial addressed to the departmental governor, as required by the nationality law.

How to apply

  • Non-Central Americans: apply after meeting the residence requirement via the civil/governorate process.
  • Central Americans: begin the process directly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINEX).
  • Provide all certificates duly legalised or apostilled.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

Related Guatemalan visas

Book a consultation