If you plan to travel to this continent, this information may be important for you. Recently, they announced new entry and exit system for Europe. The European Union is about to introduce a major change to its borders with the implementation of the Entry and Exit System (SES). We will tell you all the details of this new modality so that you can take it into account for your next trip. Batteries then!

New entry and exit system announced for Europe, October 2024

This is the end of traditional passport stamping, a common practice at checkpoints that, on many occasions, generated delays and long lines. Instead, a fully digital system will be used that will collect travelers’ biometric information such as facial images and fingerprints, along with personal data such as name and passport details. This new approach will speed up border procedures and reduce waiting times to enter or leave the territory.

It is new digital system It will be operational from November 10, 2024 and will be applied in the countries that are part of the space Schengen. The main objective of SES is to improve border control, streamlining migration processes and strengthening security in Europe. The system was designed to more efficiently manage the flow of people entering and leaving the continent, especially travelers who are not citizens of the continent. European Unionlike the Guatemalans.

To implement the SESdigital kiosks will be installed at airports and other entry points, such as train stations and border crossings. These kiosks will allow travelers to scan their passport and record their biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images. This procedure will facilitate entry and exit, eliminating the need to physically stamp passports. Those who already have a visa will not have to provide their fingerprints again, as this information is collected when applying for the visa. This will reduce paperwork and simplify the process for those who regularly visit these countries.

The impact of this new system will be notable for citizens Guatemalans visiting Europe for tourism or business. In 2025, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is scheduled to launch, which will require prior authorization for visa-exempt travelers, similar to the United States system. Remember that this does not mean that you need a visa to visit the European continent, it is just a change in the visitor entry and exit registration system.

Countries to which Guatemalans do not need a visa to travel

Of the 206 countries in the world, these are some to which Guatemalans can travel without needing a visa. However, it is important to remember that the length of stay and permitted reasons for travel depend on the regulations of each country.

On the American continent, there are 15 countries in total that allow the entry of Guatemalan tourists without a visa: Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname and Uruguay.

You can find out the complete list of countries for which a visa is not required in the following note:

You can also check this page to find out what the situation is in Guatemala to enter other countries.

Did you know that the famous reality show Shark Tank coming to Guatemala? It will be the first country in Central America with its own version and it will definitely be the ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs to present their ideas to potential investors. Find out how to apply and all the related news in the Shark Tank special that we have prepared for you.