🇬🇹 Guatemala Investor Residency Checklist

Overview

Guatemala offers two main investment-based residency pathways designed to attract foreign capital while supporting local economic growth. Both options provide foreign investors with the right to live in the country long-term and, after several years, the potential to apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Option 1 — Standard Investor Residency

This route is suitable for investors who place capital in Guatemalan enterprises, create local employment, or invest in government-approved projects.

Minimum Investment: USD $100,000 (approx.) in capital contributions or business assets.

Eligible Investments Include:

• Equity participation in Guatemalan companies
• Establishment of new business operations
• Investment in agriculture, manufacturing, or tourism sectors
• Participation in public–private partnerships or government-certified projects

Residency Validity: 2 years, renewable for additional 2-year terms.

Path to Permanent Residency: Eligible after 5 years of continuous legal stay.

Option 2 — Permanent Residency via Real Estate or Bank Deposit

This option is designed for investors seeking a more passive, asset-based path to long-term residency. It provides faster access to permanent residency status if the qualifying investment is maintained.

Minimum Investment: USD $200,000 (approx.)

Qualifying Investments Include:

• Purchase of real estate in Guatemala (titled property only)
• Fixed-term deposit in a Guatemalan bank under the investor’s name
• Investment in approved national development bonds or equivalent instruments

Residency Validity: Immediate Permanent Residency upon approval.

Holding Period: Investment must remain in place for a minimum of 5 years.

📋 Required Documentation

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Police clearance certificate from country of residence
• Certified proof of investment source and amount
• Bank statements showing available funds
• Certified copy of property title or deposit certificate (for Option 2)
• Passport-sized photos
• Medical certificate issued in Guatemala
• Application forms submitted to the Guatemalan Migration Institute (IGM)

⏱ Process & Timeline

1. Gather required documents and obtain apostilles/legalizations.
2. Submit application to the Guatemalan Migration Institute (IGM) with investment evidence.
3. Background checks and verification by the Ministry of Economy and the IGM.
4. Approval notice issued — obtain residency card.
5. Register address and maintain annual compliance (tax filings, renewals where applicable).

Typical processing time: 3–6 months depending on documentation completeness.

💡 Key Benefits

• Right to live and work in Guatemala full-time
• Freedom to repatriate profits and capital under Guatemala’s investment laws
• Access to property ownership and business establishment rights
• Eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after qualifying period
• Ability to include dependents (spouse and minor children) in the same application

⚠️Responsibilities & Tips

• Keep your investment active and documented throughout the residency term.
• File annual tax declarations, even if zero income is reported.
• Maintain valid health insurance and a Guatemalan address.
• Always use a local immigration attorney familiar with investment-based filings.
• Renew documents at least 30 days before expiry to avoid fines or residency suspension.

🧾 Typical Costs

• Legal fees: USD $2,000–$4,000 (depending on complexity)
• Government application fees: USD $300–$600
• Document authentication and translation: USD $200–$500
• Real estate registration and notary fees (if applicable): 1–2% of property value

📜 Regulatory Notes

Guatemala’s investment residency programs are overseen by the Ministry of Economy and the Guatemalan Migration Institute (IGM). Regulations are aligned with the Immigration Law Decree 44‑2016 and its 2023 reforms, which streamlined investor visa processes and increased digital submission options.

Legal Disclaimer

This document is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Regulations and requirements may change. Always consult a licensed Guatemalan attorney or immigration specialist before applying for residency or making any investment.