United States Visa RequirementsFor Guatemala passport holders
Guatemalan passport holders require a B-1/B-2 visitor visa to enter the United States. The application process involves an interview at the US Embassy in Guatemala City.
Guatemala passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply online at ceac.state.gov. Steps: complete DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form, pay the MRV fee of USD $185 online, schedule an interview at the US Embassy in Guatemala City (Zona 14), and attend the interview with required documents.
Required documents: valid passport (at least 6 months validity), DS-160 confirmation page, MRV fee payment receipt, appointment confirmation, recent passport photo, employment letter or proof of business/studies, recent bank statements (3-6 months), property ownership documents, family ties evidence, and any prior US visa history.
Processing times vary; the interview appointment wait time at the Guatemala City embassy fluctuates and can be several months during peak periods. Check the embassy's wait time estimate before applying.
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
Guatemala to United States: What You Need to Know
The United States requires Guatemalan citizens to obtain a nonimmigrant visa before travel. Guatemala is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program, meaning all Guatemalan travelers must obtain a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visa through the standard consular process, which includes an in-person interview at the US Embassy.
The United States is one of the most sought-after destinations for Guatemalan travelers, whether for tourism, family visits, medical purposes, or business. Major destinations include New York City, Miami, Los Angeles, Orlando (Walt Disney World), Las Vegas, and national parks such as the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone.
Approval rates for Guatemalan applicants vary. Consular officers assess each application based on the applicant's demonstrated ties to Guatemala (employment, property, family), financial sufficiency, and the perceived likelihood of returning home. A strong application significantly improves approval chances.
Practical Tips
Demonstrate strong ties to Guatemala clearly in your application: bring employment letters on company letterhead, recent bank statements, property deeds or lease agreements, and evidence of family responsibilities. Do not attempt to apply if you have any prior overstays or immigration violations in the US. If you have a valid Schengen visa, some consular officers may view it as evidence of travel history and visa compliance, which can help your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Guatemalan citizens need a visa for the United States?
Yes. Guatemalan passport holders are not part of the US Visa Waiver Program and must apply for a B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visa at the US Embassy in Guatemala City.
How much does the US visa cost for Guatemalans?
The nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee) is USD $185. This fee is non-refundable, even if the visa is denied. It must be paid online before scheduling the interview.
How long does the US visa process take for Guatemalans?
The process involves paying the fee, scheduling an interview, and attending in person. Interview wait times at the Guatemala City embassy vary from weeks to months depending on demand. Check current wait times at ais.usvisa-info.com/en-gt before applying.
What documents strengthen a US visa application for Guatemalans?
Evidence of strong ties to Guatemala is critical: employment letters, bank statements (3-6 months), property ownership documents, family ties (spouse, children), business registration, and prior international travel history with clean visa compliance records all strengthen an application.