Guatemala
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
Get alerted when this changesLawLert pings you if Guatemala's laws change. Free.Get the free appMedications
Carry prescription medication in original packaging with your prescription and confirm legality with Guatemala's Ministry of Public Health; counterfeit medication is common, so buy only from trusted places.
§ US State Dept — GuatemalaCustoms & Cash
Guatemala sets no cap on currency entering or leaving, but if you are carrying USD 10,000 or more you must identify the source of the money and its purpose.
§ US State Dept — GuatemalaDriving
A valid US driver's licence is accepted in Guatemala for the first 30 days of a visit and an International Driving Permit is needed for longer stays; it is illegal to use a phone while driving.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs means arrest and possible jail; after an accident causing injury you can be held until an investigation or payment of damages is completed, no matter who is at fault.
§ US State Dept — GuatemalaLGBTQ+ Safety
Same-sex sexual activity is not illegal in Guatemala, but no law guarantees freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and same-sex marriages are not recognised.
§ UK FCDO — GuatemalaPublic Conduct
If you are charged with a crime in Guatemala you may be banned from leaving the country until the case is resolved, and after a traffic accident causing injury you can be held regardless of who was at fault.
Travel ban until the case resolves; detention until an investigation completes or damages are paid.
§ US State Dept — Guatemala