
Immigration and Health Insurance Requirements in Guatemala
Immigration Requirements
Individuals must show proof of a permanent monthly income at least $1,250., are eligible to establish an indefinite domicile in Guatemala, and may even apply for permanent residence as an annuitant or pensioner.
The advantage of this type of residency status is that, unlike in neighboring countries, a local attorney or guarantor is not required. This simplifies the process substantially for those seeking to settle in Guatemala. Additionally, the possibility of living in Guatemala permanently, in a favorable tax regime, without the requirement to work or generate local income, makes residency as a “rentista” (those receiving regular rental or investment income) or residency as a “pensionado”, (those receiving regular pension and/or Social Security benefits) are both attractive options for those seeking a superior quality of life in this growing country.
This official government link in Guatemala provides the most updated requirements, but only in Spanish:
Health Insurance Requirements in Guatemala
Health insurance is not mandatory in Guatemala, but the government strongly recommends that all residents have international health insurance priced in USD or EUR to guard against rampant inflation and ensure access to local medical care.
State Health Insurance System in Guatemala
Today, the Guatemalan healthcare system is split into three separate divisions: Public, Private nonprofit, and Private for-profit sectors.
Within the public sector, there is the Ministry of Health and Social Security (MOH), the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS), and the Military Health Service.
This sector of the health care system formally covers about 88% of the population.
The private health insurance sector, accounts for about 12% of the population and includes many for-profit providers, non-profit entities, and traditional local providers.
The public sector works to provide healthcare through hospitals, health facilities, and various health centers, whereas the private sector allocates resources within private doctors offices, clinics, and hospitals. AccessHMO provides coverage at all of these facilities.
The advantages of having AccessHMO Health Insurance membership in Guatemala
Your freedom to choose any licensed doctor for treatment.
Peace of mind in having solid Medical Evacuation coverage to, in case of medical emergency, fly to the nearest, more medically advanced facility in a nearby country such as Costa Rica, Mexico or the U.S. This could mean all the difference with the current medical scarcities in Guatemala.
Access to private doctors and specialists including pediatrics
AccessHMO health insurance plans provide access to higher quality, English speaking medical facilities with board certified specialists.
Shorter waiting times for appointments and to schedule medical procedures
AccessHMO health insurance plans usually provide shorter waiting times for appointments and scheduling medical procedures. This saves our clients precious time to enjoy more of Guatemala.
Flexibility and Coordination
AccessHMO health insurance plans are tailored to the budget and needs of the individual clients which allows greater flexibility and choice of benefit and coverage levels.
In conclusion, while health insurance is not mandatory for residents in Guatemala it could save your life and most foreigners choose to have private health insurance for greater coverage and benefits. It is important to compare different insurance options to find the plan that best fits your budget and needs.
AccessHMO’s licensed professionals stand ready to answer your questions and address your individual needs to find the most suitable health insurance plan with options such as medical evacuation from Guatemala for medical treatment back in the U.S. and also available for Canada or Europe.