How to Get a US Visa from Guatemala

The B1/B2 tourist visa is what most Guatemalans need to visit the United States. The entire process can be done without a lawyer — here’s exactly how.

Step 1: Fill Out the DS-160 Form Online

Go to ceac.state.gov and complete the DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application). This is the most time-consuming step — budget 1-2 hours.

Tips for the DS-160:

  • Have your passport, travel dates, US contact info, and employment details ready
  • Save your application ID — you can pause and return later
  • Upload a 5x5cm (2x2 inch) white-background photo
  • Double-check every field — errors cause delays
  • Print the confirmation page with your AA barcode number

Step 2: Pay the MRV Fee ($185 USD)

After completing the DS-160, pay the $185 Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee. In Guatemala you can pay at:

  • Banco Industrial — cash or debit
  • BAC Credomatic — cash or debit
  • Online via the ustraveldocs.com portal

Keep your payment receipt — you need the receipt number to schedule your interview.

New in 2025-2026: A $250 Visa Integrity and Border Security Fee was signed into law. This fee is paid only upon visa approval (not upfront). Implementation date TBD — check the embassy website for updates.

Step 3: Schedule Your Interview

Create an account at ais.usvisa-info.com and schedule your appointment at the US Embassy in Guatemala City.

You’ll need:

  • Your passport number
  • DS-160 confirmation number (starts with AA)
  • MRV fee receipt number

Current wait times vary from 2-6 weeks depending on demand. Summer and December are busiest.

Step 4: Attend Your Interview

The US Embassy is at Avenida Reforma 7-01, Zona 10, Guatemala City.

What to bring:

  • Printed appointment confirmation
  • DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
  • Valid passport (and any previous passports with US visas)
  • One recent photo (5x5cm, white background)
  • MRV fee receipt

Supporting documents (not required but strongly recommended):

  • Bank statements — last 3-6 months
  • Employment letter with salary and start date
  • Property deeds or vehicle titles
  • Business registration (if self-employed)
  • Travel itinerary or hotel reservations
  • Family ties documentation (if spouse/children stay in Guatemala)

Step 5: Interview Tips

The interview lasts 5-15 minutes. The consular officer wants to determine two things:

  1. Purpose of travel — Why are you going?
  2. Ties to Guatemala — Will you return?

Do:

  • Answer briefly and directly
  • Bring organized documents in a folder
  • Be honest — inconsistencies are red flags
  • Dress professionally but not overdressed
  • Arrive 15 minutes early

Don’t:

  • Memorize scripted answers
  • Bring family members into the interview window
  • Argue if denied — you can reapply
  • Lie about anything — the embassy database is permanent

Step 6: Pick Up Your Visa

If approved, your passport with the visa will be available for pickup at the embassy or DHL delivery point within 3-5 business days. You’ll get a notification via email or text.

Common Reasons for Denial (Section 214(b))

The most common denial is under INA Section 214(b) — the officer wasn’t convinced you have sufficient ties to Guatemala. This means:

  • Weak financial documentation
  • No clear employment or property ties
  • Vague travel purpose
  • Previous overstays in the US or other countries
  • Inconsistencies between your application and interview answers

If denied: You can reapply at any time with a new DS-160 and fee. Focus on what was weak — usually stronger financial docs or clearer ties.

Cost Summary

Item Cost When
DS-160 application (MRV fee) $185 USD Before interview (non-refundable)
Visa Integrity Fee $250 USD Upon approval (new, implementation TBD)
Photos Q25-50 Before application
DHL delivery (optional) Q50-75 After approval
Total if approved ~$435 USD

US Embassy Guatemala Contact

  • Address: Avenida Reforma 7-01, Zona 10, Guatemala City
  • Hours: Mon-Thu 7:30am-4:30pm, Fri 7:00am-12:00pm
  • Phone: 2326-4000
  • Website: gt.usembassy.gov
  • Appointments: ais.usvisa-info.com