Guatemala Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian passport holders can visit Guatemala visa-free for up to 90 days under the CA-4 Central American Border Control Agreement, which also covers El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Great news! Canada passport holders can enter Guatemala without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa is required. Present your valid Canadian passport at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City or at any land border crossing. The CA-4 90-day limit is shared with El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, so track total days across all four countries. The 90-day period begins from first entry into the CA-4 zone. Extensions of up to 90 additional days may be requested from Guatemalan immigration.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Canada to Guatemala: What You Need to Know
Guatemala is Central America most culturally rich destination, home to well-preserved Maya ruins at Tikal and Quirigua, the colonial city of Antigua, the highland market town of Chichicastenango, and the stunning Lake Atitlan surrounded by volcanoes. The CA-4 agreement means that Canadians receive a single 90-day allowance shared across Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Exiting the CA-4 zone (e.g., to Belize or Costa Rica) resets the 90-day counter.
Practical Tips
Antigua is a great base for acclimatizing to altitude (1,500 m) before heading to higher areas. The Lake Atitlan region sits at about 1,560 m. Tikal in the Peten jungle requires either flying or a long overland journey from Guatemala City. Safety varies; exercise heightened caution in Guatemala City and on intercity bus routes. Use first-class shuttles or authorized taxis rather than local buses for longer journeys. The Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ) is the local currency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need a visa for Guatemala?
No. Canadian citizens can enter Guatemala visa-free for up to 90 days under the CA-4 Central American Border Control Agreement.
What is the CA-4 agreement and how does it affect my stay?
The CA-4 agreement is a border control treaty between Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Canadians receive a single 90-day allowance shared across all four countries. If you enter Guatemala and then visit Honduras, your days in Honduras also count toward the 90-day CA-4 limit.
What are the top attractions in Guatemala?
The highlights include Antigua (a beautifully preserved colonial city), Tikal (towering Maya pyramids in the jungle), Lake Atitlan (a stunning volcanic caldera lake), Chichicastenango market (one of the largest indigenous markets in the Americas), and Semuc Champey (natural limestone pools).
Is Guatemala safe for Canadian tourists?
Guatemala has areas with significant security concerns, including Guatemala City and some rural areas. Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and the tourist areas around Tikal are relatively safer. Use authorized shuttle services rather than local buses for intercity travel, and follow the Government of Canada travel advisory.