The southwestern department of San Marcos at the Guatemala-Mexico border and the zone at the border with Belize are especially affected. All U.S. government personnel and family members are prohibited from traveling to Huehuetenango Department for personal travel, except for the city of Huehuetenango. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Full travel advice: Health. VACCINATIONS: Required: Honduras currently requires travelers arriving from or traveling to Panama and every nation in South America to present proof of yellow fever vaccine. Wait times may be long. Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game. If you are in Guatemala you should: Observe social distancing of at least 1.5 metres. A true case of jumping the gun. If a U.S. citizen exceeds the period of authorized stay, a fine of 15 Guatemalan quetzals (GTQ) per day is imposed, and this fine must be paid to be permitted to depart Guatemala. Be vigilant of motorcyclists who weave unexpectedly across lanes of traffic and pedestrians who unexpectedly dart across roads due to the lack of defined crosswalks. These restrictions were intended to limit the effect of impurities in the CNG, such as hydrogen sulfide, on the structural integrity of the steel used in the manufacture of the cylinders. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. As a result, some may ask you to sit in the front seat to hide the fact that they are providing a rideshare service. Travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test to enter or leave the country. ), Patricia Trigueros takes you toRead More A Dose of Palm Trees: My Favorite Beaches in El Salvador. He lives in Escazu, Costa Rica. Guatemala - Department of Foreign Affairs You may request an extension of up to 90 days once a year. Unlicensed drivers often drive at excessive speeds. Travel in Guatemala Restrictions to prevent the spread of coronavirus are in place. Last Update: Reissued after periodic review without changes. Proof of full vaccination as outlined above (applicable to those aged 12 and over). President Giammattei already went out of his way last month to cozy up to the United States over Taiwan, and any action which makes it harder for Honduran migrants to pass through Guatemala on the way north might be another way to get on Uncle Sams good side. Immigration authorities will determine the length of the extension. By The New York Times. Quality of care varies greatly throughout public or rural facilities. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays. Outside of that, its up to each municipality and venue to enforce rules, and many dont. When traveling to Lake Atitln, use certified tourist providers and travel between villages on the lakeshore by chartered boat, as perimeter paths pose a serious crime risk and are not easily accessible by emergency services. Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. Guatemala Travel Advisory - United States Department of State (And Which Parts Should I Visit and/or Avoid? While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. Eruptions every 15 minutes: Hikers return to Guatemala's most active Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickenss, and take precautions before you travel. Guatemala Republic of Guatemala Travel Advisory October 4, 2022 Guatemala - Level 3: Reconsider Travel C Reconsider travel to Guatemala due to crime. Check with the Guatemalan Public Health Ministry to ensure the medication is legal in Guatemala. Buses are frequently targeted by gangs, who may hurl grenades or fire shots as a way of ensuring compliance with their demands or to settle accounts. Read thecountry information pagefor additional information on travel to Guatemala. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, including taxi drivers. On its own tweet about the matter (see above), the Department of Immigration said it was posting the new rules because of the possibility of a massive group of migrants entering Guatemalan territory. prevention of international child abduction. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water. report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Childrens Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to criminal incidents resulting in a low arrest and conviction rate. Guatemala has a dedicated tourism assistance program (called PROATUR) whose sole mission is to assist and protect foreign tourists in Guatemala. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so. U.S. dollars may be exchanged for local currency at most major banks. PROVIAL, the government roadside assistance agency, patrols most of the major highways and provides updates on roads conditions. We overview the rules and offer a quick speculation as to why this is happening now. You cannot exchange Canadian dollars in Guatemala. From 10 January 2022, travelers entering Guatemala must show the following on arrival: Proof of a full course of COVID vaccination (two doses; or one for the Johnson and Johnson vaccine) or proof of a medical condition that prevents . This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving. Warm and waterproof attire is essential. PROVIAL can be contacted by calling +502-2422-7800. Is it safe to travel to Guatemala during the COVID-19 pandemic? Only limited exceptions apply. Reconsider travel to Guatemala due tocrime. There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country. Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Illegal roadblocks are also frequent. Crime:Theft, armed robbery, and carjacking are the most common crimes against U.S. citizens. Whether youre a business ownerRead More Vlogging to Better Your Brand in Central America, Pretty much every visitor toRead More Is Guatemala City Safe? Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities). Guatemala reopened its borders to international travel on September 18, 2020. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. It is not necessary to present a negative Covid test. Guatemala Directorate General of Migration Government of Guatemala (in Spanish). We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards. Boaters in the Rio Dulce area of Izabal have been the victim of violent armed attacks. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry, and avoid using mobile devices in public. Visitors should not leave drinks unattended in bars and restaurants and are advised to decline invitations from strangers to private parties or gatherings. U.S. citizens do not need a visa and are admitted to Guatemala for 90 days. Pickpockets and purse-snatchers are prevalent in major cities and tourist sites, especially the central market and other parts of Zone 1 in Guatemala City. They have been involved in cases of extortion, petty theft and other crimes. The content on this page is provided for information only. Guatemala: Authorities to tighten COVID-19-related entry restrictions Medical facilities in Guatemala City are adequate. Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. Customs: Guatemalan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Guatemala of items such as antiquities and other cultural property. The 90-day period begins at the first point of entry to any of the CA-4 countries. Mask usage in Guatemala is required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation. Requests should be directed to the attention of the Coordinator of the, The request should be submitted by mail, fax, or. Health Alert - U.S. Embassy in Guatemala Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about, Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about. contact relatives or friends with your written consent. Guatemalan law doesnt criminalize sexual acts or relationships between individuals of the same sex. There have also been numerous reports of violent criminal activity along Guatemalas main highways, including the Carretera a El Salvador (Inter-American Highway CA-2). There are now no more vaccine requirements or negative test proofs needed to enter Guatemala, only recommendations. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Then they changed it again, to January 10. New article about Northern Lights photography in M, Guatemala has reopened borders to tourists from these countries, Guatemala travel ban is in place for these countries, Check where to get a quick PCR test for travel near you. Visit our website forTravel to High-Risk Areas. Pack atravel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres. Victims have been violently assaulted when they resisted an attack or refused to give up money or valuables. Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. International Travel to and from the United States | CDC American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)is a risk in this country. For more info, visit our Affiliate Disclosure Page. Criminals perceive foreigners as wealthy. Telephone: +(502) 2354-0000 They do not typically enter into payment plan agreements, and they may decline to discharge you from the hospital if you owe money for treatment. Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(502) 2354-0000 Travelers may also call the police for roadside assistance by dialing 110 or 120, or the fire department by dialing 122 or 123; however, patrols are sporadic. Avoid non-essential travel to the following areas due to very high levels of violent crime: Within Guatemala City: Zone 3 Zone 18 Zone 19 Zone 21 Municipalities: Amatitln Chinautla Escuintla San Jos del Golfo San Raymundo Villa Nueva Departments: Chiquimula Jutiapa Zacapa Highways: RN-7E CA-11 CA-12 CA-13 PET-13 Back to top Safety and security There have been instances of narco-related homicides in this area, especially along CA-13. ), Patricia Trigueros takes you toRead More A Dose of Palm Trees: My Favorite Beaches in El Salvador. Of these three countries, only Honduras and Panama still have internal restrictions with any teeth. Guatemala has many different and firmly held local beliefs and customs. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, information, and general infrastructure, and common in lodging and communication. Ridesharing services drivers are sometimes targets of taxi drivers who oppose these services. Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section). Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions, Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. Since September 2020, Guatemala is receiving international travelers. Most of the time, they are recycled school buses mechanically unreliable. Theres a school of thought out there that much of this is, in some way, a form of appeasing the United States. For those aged 10 and over, proof of a negative test taken within three days before arrival, as outlined above. While the Guatemalan Health Ministry puts out a (now deleted) post saying Guatemala was only allowing vaccinated travelers in, an announcement corroborated by the U.S. Embassy, the immigration department says something else. INGUAT - The Guatemalan Tourist Institute. Guatemala Country Information and Travel Advisory Page, Enroll inSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates, Emergency Information for American Citizens, Health Alert New Entry Requirements for Travel to Guatemala on or after January 10, 2022. Before travelling, verify your destinations COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. There is no requirement to present certificates of vaccination/testing for COVID-19, or to complete a Passenger Locator Form. If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season: The rainy season extends from mid-May to mid-November. Avoid approaching or photographing children and women, especially in Indigenous communities. You may need a tourist visa to visit Guatemala. They have also been subject to armed assault and sexual assault, including rape. Health Alert New Entry Requirements for Travel to Guatemala on or after January 10, 2022. Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally. For emergency services in Guatemala, dial 110. Unless youre in a red area, where both mask mandates and social distancing remain. As governments across the world loosen coronavirus restrictions and shift their approach to accepting Covid-19 as a manageable . Use radio-dispatched taxis (Taxi Amarillo), INGUAT-approved taxis from the SAFE stand at the airport, hotel taxis, vetted private drivers, or Uber. In the event of an earthquake or volcanic eruption: Emergency services exist but may be subject to certain limitations. Incidents of armed robbery occur daily on public buses. Quebec overtook British Columbia as the second most common initial settlement location among this group, landing 68,685 immigrants in 2022, representing about 15.7% of all new immigrants. International travel is slowly opening in most countries around the globe. Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Guatemala. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. While there is no legal recognition of same-sex partnerships or marriages, private same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults is legal. Some criminals also pose as police officers. The Government of Guatemala announced new entry requirements that will be in effect as of January 10, 2022. You will be fined if you exceed the 90-day limit. Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Guatemala without restrictions. It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region. Country Summary:Violent crime such as extortion, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, narcotics trafficking and gang activity are common in Guatemala. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. Further information may be found on the FAAs safety assessment page. In case of emergency, dial: Guatemalan authorities provide information and assistance to tourists via their ASISTUR and DISETUR programs. Passengers who are neither Guatemalan citizens nor Guatemalan residents will be required to present both of the following: Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov. Vaccination to enter Guatemala is now mandatory for foreign (non-citizen/legal resident visitors from January 10, 2022. Customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning import or export of items such as antiquities and artefacts. While most roads in urban areas are in fair condition, travel on secondary streets and rural roads can be hazardous due to: Local drivers generally dont respect traffic laws. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease. pic.twitter.com/ev811IFmg4, Migracin Guatemala (@MigracionGuate) January 7, 2022. Guatemala travel restrictions To visit Guatemala by air or land, travelers age 12 and up must show proof of vaccination against Covid-19. The Cheapest Places to Fly From Each U.S. State - Travel Check if you need one below. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. El Salvador Travel Restrictions Guatemala Travel Restrictions Jamaica Travel Restrictions Mexico Travel Restrictions Puerto Rico Travel Restriction SXM Travel Entry Requirement U.S. Virgin Islands Entry Requirements Temporary Suspension of Dogs Entering U.S. Mudslides and flooding during the May to November rainy season often kill dozens of people and close roads. Latest Travel Restrictions. https://t.co/lgVJnpsK69, Central America Living (@VidaAmerica) December 24, 2021. Do not travel if you have any Covid symptoms. Guatemala Covid Entry Requirements Eliminated for Travelers Entering the Country by CA Staff August 15, 2022 Guatemala, News, Travel All Guatemala Covid entry requirements are now eliminated, effective August 12, 2022. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. (phone: 202-745-4953) or one of Guatemalas consulates in the United States for specific information. Vaccination to Enter Guatemala Mandatory | centralamerica.com International Travel Restrictions Guatemala's land, air, and sea ports of entry remain open to most passenger traffic. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Due to a lack of resources within the police force, arrest and detention rates are quite low. Rifles and handguns are very common. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Several municipalities lack police presence, and local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Guatemalas public hospitals frequently experience serious shortages of even the most basic medicines and equipment. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing.