Location: Guatemala
Subject: Health Alert – State of Prevention Imposes New COVID-19 Restrictions
The Government of Guatemala has announced a State of Prevention, in effect April 16-30, 2021, as a result of a substantial increase in COVID-19 infections in Guatemala. The State of Prevention restricts entry into Guatemala (with limited exceptions) individuals who have visited Brazil, the U.K., and South Africa, restricts public gatherings and internal movement, places limits on capacity and operating hours of public and commercial establishments, and enforces mask wearing in public spaces.
During the State of Prevention, the following restrictions are in place from April 16-30, 2021;
Entering Guatemala for those who have visited Brazil, U.K., South Africa:
Foreigners who have visited Brazil, the United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), or South Africa within the past 14 days are not permitted to enter Guatemala. Guatemalan nationals, permanent residents of Guatemala, accredited diplomats and airline crewmembers are allowed to enter, but are required to quarantine for a minimum of 10 days, in addition to existing testing requirements.
Public gatherings and movement:
- Open-air public or private gatherings are limited, as well as public demonstrations, and other events and demonstrations that affect free movement or public services. The use of virtual platforms is encouraged where possible.
- The authorities may request the dissolution, and may terminate by force if necessary, any meetings or public demonstrations that are unauthorized or take place without the necessary sanitary measures.
- Authorities may request those who travel internally within Guatemala to declare the nature of their travel, and present documentation related to their itinerary.
Mask-wearing and social distancing:
- Masks must be worn in public or governmental spaces and establishments, private spaces and establishments open to the public, and private entities offering restricted-access services, including any form of transportation or transit. Exceptions are granted only for children under age 2, and those with a certified medical exception. Non-compliance is subject to criminal penalty.
- Individuals must maintain social distancing of at least 1.5 meters.
Alcohol consumption and sale:
- The consumption of alcoholic beverages in commercial establishments, and in public spaces is prohibited between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- The sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Public and commercial establishments:
- Public spaces (public parks, municipal parks, beaches, lakes, rivers, tourist resorts, water parks and theme parks) may operate at 25 percent capacity, and must close at 7:00 p.m.
- Markets may operate at 25 percent of capacity between 05:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with special hours for those over age 60.
- Supermarkets, stores, shopping centers and malls may operate at 25 percent of capacity, and must close at 8:00 p.m., with special hours for those over age 60.
- All food in markets and supermarkets must be prepared “to go.”
- Bars and entertainment establishments may operate at 25 percent of capacity, and must close at 6:00 p.m.
- Home delivery services may operate without restrictions.
- Restrictions on funerals and mass burials remain in place, regardless of the cause of death.
Actions to Take:
· Check the Embassy’s COVID-19 Information Page for updated COVID-19 related information.
· Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States.
· Monitor the CDC website for latest guidance regarding testing requirements for entry into the United States.
· Click here for the Department of State’s COVID FAQs Search Tool.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Guatemala City https://gt.usembassy.gov/
Tel. (502) 2326-4000
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Guatemala Country Information and Travel Advisory Page
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates