Guatemala: Authorities revise COVID-19 restrictions on business operating hours as of Jan. 28 /update 27

Event

Authorities in Guatemala are likely to continue enforcing some degree of restrictions on businesses and international travel protocols through at least February, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

As of Jan. 28, authorities have revised restrictions on business operating hours: markets may operate 0500-1700, with special hours for people over the age of 60, while shopping centers, supermarkets, and convenience and other stores may operate during the day until 1900, with special hours for people over the age of 60. Bars, nightlife establishments, and restaurants outside of shopping malls must close by 2100. These operating restrictions are in addition to the current pandemic-related domestic measures:

Domestic Measures
While most commercial activity is continuing subject to the newly announced operating hours requirements, as of late January, authorities are maintaining the existing four-tier virus risk classification system that stipulates pandemic-related protocols and capacity limits in each tier. This system divides the country according to the level of COVID-19 activity in each municipality, ranging from the red level, indicating the highest risk, to the green level, which indicates the lowest. As of Jan. 28, most municipalities are at the yellow level.

Some nationwide measures remain in place regardless of the risk classification. Individuals must continue to use facemasks while in public; failure to do so may result in a fine. Individuals are also urged to continue compliance with social distancing and adequate hygiene protocols. The sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited in commercial establishments 2100-0600 daily.

International Travel Restrictions
Guatemala's land, air, and seaports of entry remain open to passenger traffic; however, officials are maintaining the ban on all flights originating in or transiting through the UK and South Africa. The ban went into effect in late December 2020 due to the detection of a variant strain of COVID-19 in both countries. In addition, all foreign travelers who have been in the UK or South Africa in the preceding 14 days will be barred from boarding Guatemala-bound flights. It is unclear how long the measures will be in place. Returning Guatemalan nationals, residents, diplomats, and flight crew are permitted to enter but must self-quarantine for 10 days after arrival.

Passengers arriving by air are required to complete an online Health Pass before arrival. All travelers aged 10 and over must still present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or antigen test taken up to 96 hours before travel. International air travelers who do not have proof of a negative test may be permitted entry only if they have proof of having taken a test before travel and were not able to receive their results in time for their arrival, or if they can demonstrate the need to urgently travel to Guatemala. Travelers in these categories will be tested upon arrival at La Aurora International Airport (GUA) and must remain in the airport while awaiting results. With the exception of the two previously listed categories of travelers, Guatemalan citizens or residents who do not present the negative test, or those who have COVID-19 related symptoms will be taken to an isolation center for further screenings. Nonresident foreign nationals under the same circumstances will be denied entry into Guatemala.

All measures are subject to amendment at short notice. Authorities may reapply or further ease restrictions depending on COVID-19 activity. Transport and business disruptions are likely to persist amid the continued pandemic-related operating requirements.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all appointments and travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Alert Level by Region (Spanish)
Alert Level Measures (Spanish)
Traveler Health Pass