Whether you're planning a tourist visit to see Kaieteur Falls, coming for business in Guyana's booming oil sector, pursuing studies, or seeking employment, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Guyana's visa requirements, application procedures, and immigration policies for 2026.
Table of Contents
Official Government Links & Forms
Online Portals
Visa Application Forms (PDF)
Visa on Arrival Requirements
Types of Guyana Visas
Guyana offers several visa categories depending on your purpose of travel. Understanding the right visa type is crucial for a successful application.
Tourist Visa
For travelers visiting Guyana for tourism, vacation, visiting friends/family, or leisure activities.
Business Visa
For individuals traveling to Guyana for business meetings, conferences, negotiations, or exploring business opportunities.
Student Visa
For individuals accepted to study at educational institutions in Guyana.
Work Visa / Work Permit
For individuals who have secured employment with a Guyanese employer.
Visa-Free Countries (Complete List)
Guyana offers visa-free access to citizens of over 90 countries. The length of visa-free stay varies based on bilateral agreements. Below is the complete list organized by region.
CARICOM Advantage
Citizens of CARICOM member states enjoy indefinite visa-free stay in Guyana and can work without a permit under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) framework.
Caribbean (CARICOM Member States) - Unlimited Stay
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Haiti
- Jamaica
- Montserrat
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Suriname
- Trinidad and Tobago
North America - 90 Days
- United States
- Canada
- Mexico
Europe - 90 Days
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Germany
- France
- Netherlands
- Belgium
- Spain
- Portugal
- Italy
- Austria
- Switzerland
- Sweden
- Norway
- Denmark
- Finland
- Poland
- Czech Republic
- Hungary
- Greece
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Cyprus
- Slovenia
- Slovakia
- Estonia
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Croatia
- Bulgaria
- Romania
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
- Monaco
South America - 90 Days
- Brazil
- Venezuela
- Argentina
- Chile
- Colombia
- Peru
- Ecuador
- Uruguay
- Paraguay
- Bolivia
Central America - 90 Days
- Costa Rica
- Panama
- Guatemala
- El Salvador
- Honduras
- Nicaragua
Asia & Pacific - 90 Days
- Japan
- South Korea
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Hong Kong
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Fiji
- Philippines
- Israel
- United Arab Emirates
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Bahrain
Africa - 90 Days
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Ghana
- Nigeria
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Namibia
- Zimbabwe
- Zambia
- Rwanda
- Uganda
Important Note
Visa policies can change. Always verify current requirements with the Ministry of Home Affairs or the nearest Guyanese embassy before traveling. Countries not listed above generally require a visa.
Required Documents by Visa Type
Tourist Visa Documents
Tourist Visa Requirements
Business Visa Documents
Business Visa Requirements
Student Visa Documents
Student Visa Requirements
Work Permit Documents
Work Permit Requirements
Visa Fees and Processing Times
Visa Fees (2026)
| Visa Type | Single Entry | Multiple Entry | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | USD $25-50 | USD $100 | 3-7 business days |
| Business Visa | USD $50-100 | USD $150-200 | 5-10 business days |
| Student Visa | USD $50 + permit fees | N/A | 2-4 weeks |
| Work Permit | USD $200-500 (varies by duration) | 4-8 weeks | |
| Visa on Arrival | USD $25-50 | N/A | Immediate |
| E-Visa | USD $30-60 | USD $100-150 | 3-5 business days |
| Visa Extension | GYD $5,000-10,000 (~USD $25-50) | 1-2 weeks | |
Fee Notes
Fees are subject to change and may vary based on nationality (reciprocity). Some embassies may charge additional service fees. Payment methods include cash (USD), credit cards, or money orders depending on the embassy/consulate.
Processing Time Breakdown
| Application Method | Standard Processing | Expedited (if available) |
|---|---|---|
| Embassy/Consulate | 5-10 business days | 2-3 business days (+$50) |
| E-Visa Online | 3-5 business days | 24-48 hours (+$30) |
| Visa on Arrival | 15-30 minutes at airport | N/A |
| Work Permit | 4-8 weeks | 2-4 weeks (+$100-200) |
How to Apply
Option 1: Online E-Visa Application
Guyana's Immigration Support Services offers an e-visa portal for eligible nationals.
Visit the E-Visa Portal
Go to eservices.iss.gov.gy and create an account. You'll need a valid email address to register.
Complete the Application Form
Fill in all personal details, travel information, and purpose of visit. Double-check all information for accuracy.
Upload Required Documents
Scan and upload your passport bio page, photo, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, and any other required documents in PDF or JPEG format.
Pay the Visa Fee
Complete payment online via credit/debit card. Keep your payment confirmation receipt.
Receive Your E-Visa
Once approved (3-5 business days), you'll receive the e-visa via email. Print it out and carry it with your passport when traveling.
Official E-Visa Portal
Website: eservices.iss.gov.gy
Support Email: issupport@moha.gov.gy
Option 2: Embassy/Consulate Application
For those who prefer in-person applications or whose nationality isn't eligible for e-visa.
Locate Your Nearest Embassy/Consulate
Find the Guyanese diplomatic mission serving your country. See the contact information section below for major locations.
Download and Complete Application Form
Obtain the visa application form from the embassy website or in person. Complete all fields in black ink or type.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all required documents (see visa type requirements above). Make photocopies of everything.
Submit Application
Submit your application in person or by mail (if accepted). Pay the visa fee. Obtain a receipt.
Wait for Processing
Processing takes 5-10 business days. You may track status online or contact the embassy.
Collect Your Visa
Pick up your passport with the visa stamp in person, or it will be mailed back if you included a prepaid envelope.
Option 3: Visa on Arrival
Available for citizens of certain countries at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (Georgetown).
Visa on Arrival Process
VOA Warning
Visa on arrival is NOT guaranteed. If your documents are incomplete or you cannot prove sufficient funds, entry may be denied. It's always safer to apply in advance when possible.
Visa Extension Process
If you need to stay in Guyana beyond your authorized period, you must apply for an extension BEFORE your current visa/stay expires.
Extension Requirements
Where to Apply for Extension
Overstay Consequences
Overstaying your visa is a serious offense. Consequences include:
- Fines (GYD $5,000+ per day of overstay)
- Detention
- Deportation at your own expense
- Future entry bans (1-10 years)
Apply for extension at least 1-2 weeks before expiry!
Yellow Fever & Health Requirements
Health requirements are an important part of Guyana's entry regulations, particularly regarding yellow fever vaccination.
Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements
| Arriving From | Yellow Fever Certificate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA, Canada, UK, EU | NOT Required | Recommended for health protection |
| Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela | REQUIRED | Endemic countries - must show certificate |
| Sub-Saharan Africa | REQUIRED | Endemic region - must show certificate |
| Transit through endemic country | REQUIRED | If transit was within 6 days of arrival |
CDC Recommendation
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends yellow fever vaccination for ALL travelers to Guyana, regardless of origin country. Guyana is in the yellow fever transmission zone, and the vaccine provides lifetime protection.
Other Recommended Vaccinations & Health Precautions
Health Checklist
Timing
Yellow fever vaccine should be administered at least 10 days before travel to be valid. Other vaccines may require multiple doses. Visit a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Contact Information
Guyana Government Immigration
Ministry of Home Affairs
Immigration Support Services (E-Visa)
Guyanese Embassies & Consulates
Embassy of Guyana - Washington, D.C. (USA)
Guyana Consulate - New York (USA)
Guyana Consulate - Miami/Fort Lauderdale (USA)
High Commission of Guyana - London (UK)
High Commission of Guyana - Ottawa (Canada)
Guyana Consulate - Toronto (Canada)
Foreign Embassies in Guyana
US Embassy Georgetown
British High Commission Georgetown
Canadian High Commission Georgetown
Ready to Visit Guyana?
Now that you know the visa requirements, start planning your adventure in South America's hidden gem!
Plan Your TripImportant Notes
Yellow Fever Endemic Zone
Guyana is located in the yellow fever transmission zone. Even if not required for entry from your origin country, the CDC and WHO recommend vaccination for all travelers. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
Do Not Overstay
Overstaying your authorized period is taken seriously. Penalties include fines, deportation, and multi-year entry bans. Always apply for extensions in advance if needed.
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Guyana. Ensure you have at least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
Currency
US Dollars are widely accepted in Guyana. The local currency is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD). As of 2026, USD $1 = approximately GYD $210. ATMs are available in Georgetown but limited in interior regions.
STEP Enrollment
US citizens should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and make it easier for the embassy to contact you in emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries can visit Guyana visa-free?
Over 90 countries enjoy visa-free access to Guyana, including all CARICOM members (unlimited stay), USA, Canada, UK, EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, and most Commonwealth nations. Most can stay 90 days for tourism or business.
How much does a Guyana visa cost?
Fees vary by visa type: Tourist visa costs USD $25-50 (single entry) or $100 (multiple entry). Business visa is $50-100. Student visa is $50 plus permit fees. Work permits cost $200-500 depending on duration. Visa on arrival is $25-50.
How long does it take to get a Guyana visa?
Processing times: Tourist visa 3-7 business days at embassies. Business visa 5-10 days. Student visa 2-4 weeks. Work permits 4-8 weeks. E-visa 3-5 business days. Visa on arrival is processed immediately at the airport.
Can I extend my visa in Guyana?
Yes, extensions can be requested at the Ministry of Home Affairs Immigration Department in Georgetown. Apply at least 1-2 weeks before expiry. Extensions cost GYD $5,000-10,000 (approximately USD $25-50) and are granted case-by-case.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination?
A certificate is required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days. Not required for direct arrivals from USA, Canada, Europe, etc. However, vaccination is strongly recommended as Guyana is in a transmission zone.
Does Guyana have an e-visa system?
Yes, Guyana offers e-visas through eservices.iss.gov.gy. It's available for nationals requiring visas. The online application takes 3-5 business days and you receive your visa electronically.
Can I work in Guyana on a tourist visa?
No, you cannot work on a tourist visa or visa-free entry. Employment requires a valid work permit sponsored by a Guyanese employer. Working without authorization can result in deportation and future entry bans.
What if my visa application is denied?
You may reapply after addressing the reason for denial (usually incomplete documents or insufficient funds). Wait at least 30 days before reapplying. You can also appeal the decision through the embassy/consulate that processed your application.
Can I enter Guyana with a criminal record?
Minor offenses may not prevent entry, but serious crimes (drug trafficking, violent offenses) can result in visa denial. You may be required to provide a police clearance certificate. Disclose any criminal history honestly on your application.
Is travel insurance required for Guyana?
Not legally required for entry, but strongly recommended. Medical facilities in interior regions are limited, and medical evacuation can cost $50,000+ without insurance. Choose a policy covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation.
Last updated: January 29, 2026. Visa requirements can change without notice. Always verify current requirements with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration E-Services Portal, or the nearest Guyanese Embassy before travel.
Need help planning your trip? Check our trip planning guide, explore things to do in Guyana, or contact us with questions.