Guatemala: Authorities tighten COVID-19-related international entry and restrictions and domestic measures until at least April 30 /update 31

Event

As of April 17, authorities have restricted entry for travelers who have visited Brazil, UK, or South Africa in the 14-days prior to their arrival in Guatemala in an effort to limit the spread of variant strains of COVID-19 present in those countries. The entry ban will apply until at least April 30. The entry restriction does not apply to Guatemalan nationals, permanent residents, diplomats, aircrews, and entries of an official humanitarian nature.

Guatemala's land, air, and sea ports of entry remain open to passenger traffic; however, a ban on all flights originating in or transiting through the UK and South Africa is still in force due to the detection of variant strains 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. Guatemalan nationals and residents, diplomats, and flight crew who have recently been in UK or South Africa are permitted to enter but must self-quarantine for 10 days after arrival.

All passengers arriving by air must complete an online Health Pass before arrival. Travelers must also 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.

The requirements to enter Guatemala through its land borders are the same as those for entry by air. While Guatemala's borders are open, Mexico's land borders with Guatemala have been closed to all nonessential travel since March 19. As of April 6, a set of special temporary restrictions that had been imposed in Guatemala to stem the spread of COVID-19 during the Easter holiday have expired and the nation's standard controls have gone back into effect. Nationwide restrictions in place include the requirement to use facemasks while in public. Individuals are also urged to continue compliance with social distancing and adequate hygiene protocols. Bars, nightlife establishments, and restaurants outside of shopping malls must close by 21:00. The sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited in commercial establishments 21:00-06:00 daily.

Domestic Restrictions
Authorities have declared a nationwide state of prevention until at least April 30. A number of sanitary measures will be enforced nationwide during this period. Public and private outdoor gatherings, including demonstrations, are prohibited. The use of face masks is mandatory in public spaces, state instutions, public buildings, and on public transportation. The sale, marketing, and on-site consumption of alcohol is prohibited daily 20:00-06:00. Shopping malls, markets, public parks, and national parks may only operate at 25 percent capacity and for reduced hours.

Guatemalan still employs a four-tier, color-coded system for classifying individual municipalities based on the local level of COVID-19 activity and imposing restrictions accordingly. The four tiers range from the red level, indicating the highest risk, to the green level, which indicates the lowest. As of April 17, 21 municipalities have moved to the highest level of restrictions (Red Alert) and another 21 to the second highest level (Orange Alert). The risk level descriptions are as follows:

Red Alert: 131 municipalities, including Chinautla, Chimaltenango, Huehuetenango, and Quetzaltenango; at this level, public transport is limited to 50-percent capacity. Markets, malls, restaurants can operate with capacity limitations; hotels must close common areas and cannot hold events. National and recreational parks must close; bars, event venues, gyms, cinemas, and theaters cannot operate. Festivals, fairs, and concerts are not allowed.
Orange Alert: 137 municipalities, including Guatemala City, Mixco, Antigua, San Pedro Carcha, Villa Nueva, and Coban; public transport is limited to 50-percent capacity; markets, malls, and restaurants can operate with capacity limitations. National and recreational parks, gyms, and entertainment businesses can reopen with capacity limits. Bars, cinemas, theaters and event venues must remain closed.
Yellow Alert: 72 municipalities, including Solola and Chichicastenango; public transport is limited to 75-percent capacity. Most businesses can operate with capacity limitations and social distancing in place. Cinemas and theaters may reopen; bars and event venues must remain closed.
Green Level: No municipalities; most restrictions lifted.

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.