Mexico Tourist Visa

Visa de Visitante sin Permiso para Realizar Actividades Remuneradas · For Guatemala citizens

85%
approval
1-2 weeks
Processing
Free
Fee
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Verified Guide
· 4 official sources

Planning a trip to Mexico as a Guatemalan citizen? Good news: the tourist visa is free for Guatemalan nationals visiting for up to 180 days. This guide covers the application process, required documents, and how to schedule your appointment at the Mexican consulate.

Application Process

Guatemalan citizens must apply for a Mexican tourist visa at the Mexican consulate.1 The process involves three main steps:

1. Schedule an Appointment

Book your appointment through the MI CONSULADO portal at citas.sre.gob.mx.2 Each applicant must have an individual appointment. Appointments fill up quickly, so schedule as early as possible.

2. Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents including your passport, completed application form, photographs, and supporting documentation.1 All documents must be originals. Letters should have original signatures.

3. Attend Your Appointment

Bring all documents to your scheduled appointment at the Mexican consulate.1 A consular officer will review your application and may ask questions about your travel plans. If approved, your visa will be ready for collection within 1-2 weeks.

Fees

ServiceCost
Tourist Visa (up to 180 days)Free

The tourist visa is free for Guatemalan citizens.1 Other visa types may have associated fees. Payment is non-refundable if applicable.

What You Need to Prove

To qualify for a Mexican tourist visa, you must demonstrate:4

  • Legitimate tourism purpose for visiting Mexico
  • Sufficient financial means to cover your stay without working
  • Strong ties to Guatemala showing intent to return (employment, property, family)
  • Valid travel documents with your Guatemalan passport

Processing Times

Visa processing typically takes 1-2 weeks after your appointment.1 Factors that may affect processing time include:

  • Volume of applications at the consulate
  • Completeness of your documentation
  • Need for additional verification

Schedule your appointment well in advance of your planned travel date to allow sufficient processing time.

After Your Visa is Approved

Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. At the Mexican border or airport, you may be asked to show:

  • Return or onward travel arrangements
  • Proof of accommodation in Mexico
  • Evidence of sufficient funds
  • Details of your travel itinerary

Immigration officers will stamp your passport with the authorized length of stay, up to 180 days.

If Your Visa is Refused

If your visa application is refused:

  1. Ask for the reason so you understand what documentation was lacking
  2. Gather stronger evidence addressing the specific concerns raised
  3. Reapply with improved documentation when ready

There is no formal appeal process, but you can submit a new application at any time with better supporting documents.

Land Border Crossings

Guatemala and Mexico share a land border with several official crossing points:3

  • La Mesilla / Ciudad Cuauhtémoc (Huehuetenango)
  • El Carmen / Talismán (San Marcos)
  • Tecún Umán / Ciudad Hidalgo (San Marcos)

Present your visa at the immigration checkpoint when crossing. Border crossings can be busy, so arrive early and have all documents ready.

Common Rejection Reasons

Based on official refusal data for this corridor

35%

Insufficient Financial Documentation

Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate irregular financial patterns.

How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of bank statements with stable balance and regular income. Certified bank statements are preferred.

30%

Weak Ties to Guatemala

Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Guatemala, such as employment, property, or family obligations.

How to avoid: Provide employment letters, property documents, family certificates, or business registration to prove your ties.

20%

Incomplete Application

Missing required documents or incomplete application form.

How to avoid: Review all requirements carefully before your appointment. Bring originals and copies of all documents.

15%

Inconsistent Information

Information provided does not match across documents or seems implausible.

How to avoid: Ensure all information is accurate and consistent across your application, letter, and supporting documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I stay in Mexico on a tourist visa?

The Mexican tourist visa allows stays of up to 180 days. The exact duration will be stamped in your passport upon entry. Extensions are possible but require visiting an immigration office in Mexico.

Is the Mexico tourist visa free for Guatemalans?

Yes, the tourist visa (Visitante sin Permiso para Realizar Actividades Remuneradas) is free for Guatemalan citizens visiting Mexico for tourism purposes for up to 180 days.

Can I work on a Mexican tourist visa?

No, the tourist visa does not permit any paid employment in Mexico. If you need to work, you must apply for a different visa type that authorizes paid activities.

How long does Mexico visa processing take?

Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks after your appointment at the Mexican consulate. Appointment availability varies, so schedule as early as possible.

Do I need to book an appointment?

Yes, all visa applications require an appointment. Schedule through the MI CONSULADO portal at citas.sre.gob.mx. Each applicant needs an individual appointment.

Can I travel to Mexico by land?

Yes, Guatemala shares a land border with Mexico. You can cross at official border points like La Mesilla or El Carmen. You will still need to present your visa at the immigration checkpoint.

What if my visa is refused?

If refused, you will receive an explanation of the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns. There is no waiting period between applications.

Do I need a visa if I already have a US visa?

If you hold a valid US visa, you may be eligible to enter Mexico without a separate Mexican visa. Check with the Mexican consulate to confirm current requirements for visa holders.

Sources