Guatemala: COVID-19 restrictions remain largely unchanged as of Feb. 26, though entry requirements have been revised /update 28

Event

Authorities in Guatemala are likely to continue enforcing some degree of restrictions on businesses and international travel protocols through at least March as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. Standard nationwide requirements, including the requirement to use facemasks while in public, will remain in place indefinitely. Individuals are also urged to continue compliance with social distancing and adequate hygiene protocols. The following additional measures are in place:

Domestic Measures
As of Feb. 26, business operating requirements that were slightly loosened in early February remain largely unchanged. Markets may operate 0500-1900, with special hours for people over the age of 60. Bars, nightlife establishments, and restaurants outside of shopping malls must close by 2100. Shopping centers, supermarkets, convenience and other stores, and restaurants may operate at any time subject to health protocols. The sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited in commercial establishments 2100-0600 daily.

In addition to the overarching nationwide measures, 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 Feb. 26, most municipalities are at the yellow level.

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.

Officials are enforcing pre-arrival requirements for entry. Passengers arriving by air are required to complete an online Health Pass before arrival. Travelers are also required to select one of the following pretesting requirements to be permitted entry:

• Travelers aged 10 and over must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or antigen test taken up to 72 hours before travel.

• Travelers who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the previous three months may provide proof of treatment and confirmation of recovery at least 10 days after being diagnosed.

• Travelers who have been administered a COVID-19 vaccine may present proof that they have received two doses, the last of which must have been administered a minimum of two weeks before departure.

International air travelers who do not have proof of a negative COVID-19 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. These travelers will be tested upon arrival at La Aurora International Airport (GUA) and must remain in the airport while awaiting results. 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 may be denied entry into Guatemala.

All measures are subject to amendment at short notice.

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