Flores

Flores is a picturesque town located in the Petén department of Guatemala, known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. The town is situated on an island in Lake Petén Itzá and is connected to the mainland by a causeway. Flores is often used as a base for tourists exploring the nearby Mayan ruins of Tikal, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Central America. The town itself is small and walkable, with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local and international cuisine at the numerous restaurants and cafes that line the waterfront and the central plaza. The lake provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and watching beautiful sunsets. Flores is also a gateway to other attractions in the region, including nature reserves, additional Mayan ruins, and the vibrant markets of the surrounding towns. Despite its small size, Flores offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, historical significance, and natural beauty, making it a memorable destination for travelers.

PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
Get Quote

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.

PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Get Quote

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Guatemala involves several steps and the process can be considered average in terms of difficulty compared to other countries. The most common types of residency visas are the Pensionado Visa and the Rentista Visa. The Pensionado Visa is designed for retirees who receive a pension from their home country. To qualify, applicants must prove they receive a monthly pension of at least $1,000 USD, which is transferred into a Guatemalan bank. The Rentista Visa is for individuals who can prove a permanent income of at least $2,500 USD per month from investments, property rentals, or other sources outside of Guatemala. The application process for these visas typically involves gathering a series of documents, such as a valid passport, police clearance from the applicant's home country, health certificate, proof of income, and sometimes a birth certificate or marriage certificate if applicable. These documents often need to be apostilled or authenticated by the applicant's home country and translated into Spanish. Applicants must then submit their paperwork to the Guatemalan authorities, either in Guatemala or at a Guatemalan consulate abroad. After submission, the review process can take several months. Once approved, the applicant will receive a temporary residency card, which is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually. After several years of temporary residency, individuals may apply for permanent residency. Digital nomads often use the Tourist Visa, which allows them to stay in Guatemala for 90 days. This visa can be extended for an additional 90 days without leaving the country, but further extensions require the individual to leave Guatemala for at least 72 hours before returning. Overall, while the process is bureaucratic and requires various documents, it is manageable with proper preparation and, in some cases, the assistance of a local attorney or visa specialist. The Guatemalan government is generally open to expats who can financially support themselves and contribute to the local economy.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Flores is moderate, with affordable options for accommodation and dining, although prices can be higher than in other parts of Guatemala due to its popularity with tourists.

Weather

Flores has a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season, and temperatures are generally warm throughout the year.

❮

❯