Exercise increased caution in Guyana due to crime.
Violent crime, such as armed robbery and murder, is common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Guyana:
Six Months
One page for entry stamp
No
Suggested
None
None
100 Young & Duke Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Telephone: +(592) 225-4900/9
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(592) 623-1992
Fax: (592)-225-8497
Email: acsgeorge@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Guyana for information on U.S.-Guyana relations.
Visit the Embassy of Guyana website and the Ministry of Home Affairs website for the most current visa information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Guyana.
Information about dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs information can be found on our websites.
U.S. citizens should remain alert and exercise particular caution in the neighborhoods of Agricola, Buxton, Stabroek, and Bourda; in and around the National Park; and along the sea wall due to criminal activity. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid walking in Georgetown alone and after dark.
Crime: Criminal activity, including murder and armed robbery, is common in Guyana. Armed robberies can occur in businesses, shopping districts, and in hotels. If you are staying in a hotel, use caution when opening the room doors and keep all valuables in the hotel safe.
Petty crimes such as pick pocketing, purse snatching, assault, and robbery can occur in all areas of Georgetown, particularly, in the general area of Stabroek Market and behind Bourda Market. Safeguard your personal property when shopping in these markets.
While local law enforcement authorities are cooperative, they lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. U.S. citizens who are victims of crime should contact the local police and the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown.
Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. These goods are illegal in the United States and cannot be brought into the country.
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should contact the local police and the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown.
Report crimes to the local police at + (592)-225-2700, 226-4585 or + (592)-227-6123, and contact the U.S. Embassy at + (592)-225-4900/9. The local equivalent to the "911" emergency line in Guyana is 911.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:
LGBTI Travelers: The Constitution of Guyana defines marriage as a legal union between a man and a woman. There is no legal protection from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity under Guyanese law.
Consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Guyana for men, and it is not uncommon for the local police to use the law to intimidate men who are gay or perceived to be gay. There are no laws concerning same-sex sexual relations between women. Crossdressing is also illegal if done “for an improper purpose.” While this clause has not explicitly been defined by legislation or judicial decisions, the common understanding is that it refers to prostitution.
See our LGBTI Travel Information page and Section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: The Guyana Constitution mandates the state to take measures to protect persons with disabilities, but there is no law that mandates provision of access for such persons. There is also a lack of appropriate infrastructure that provides access to both public and private facilities.
Illegal Drugs: Travelers to the United States from Guyana have found narcotics planted in their luggage, both in bags registered under their names and in items they were carrying for others. U.S. citizens should carry items that are personally purchased and packed, and ensure that no additional bags are registered in their name. Drug laws in Guyana are strict, pre-trial detention can last for years, and final sentences are lengthy.
Drinking Water: The water supply system throughout Guyana may be contaminated. U.S. citizens should treat or boil water before consumption, or purchase bottled water.
Changing Currency and Credit Card Use: Credit cards are only accepted in limited locations in Georgetown. Stolen PIN data is common when credit cards or ATM cards are used. U.S. citizens should only exchange currency with banks, hotels, or licensed money exchange houses (“cambios”).
Firearms: Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection web site for information on importing firearms into the United States.
Wildlife: Many plants and animals in Guyana are globally threatened or are endangered species protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). An export permit is required by the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture in order to take an exotic animal or plant out of Guyana, and an import permit is required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in order to bring an exotic animal or plant into the United States.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Medical care in Guyana is sparse, low in quality, and inconsistent. Emergency care and hospitalization for major medical illnesses or surgery are limited due to lack of trained specialists and poor sanitation.
Ambulance service is limited to transportation without any medical care and is frequently not available for emergencies. In the event of an emergency, the number for an ambulance is 913, but this number is not always operational and an ambulance may not be available.
Travelers should carry and use CDC recommended insect repellents containing either 20 percent DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535, which will help diminish bites from mosquitoes as well as ticks, fleas, chiggers, etc., some of which may also carry infectious diseases.
HIV/AIDS: The HIV epidemic is disproportionate, with an elevated burden of disease among high risk populations such as commercial sex workers, men who have sex with men, and transgender persons. In addition, HIV continues to affect the productive sector of the population, with the highest number of reported HIV cases among persons 25-49 years old.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with medication, check with the Government of Guyana to ensure the medication is legal in Guyana. Always, carry your medication in original packaging and/or with your doctor’s prescription.
The following diseases are prevelant:
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions in Guyana differ significantly than those in the United States. U.S. citizens should exercise caution when driving in Guyana and avoid driving after dark. If an accident occurs, call 911 for the police and 913 for an ambulance. U.S. citizens are reminded that these numbers may not always be operational, that the police may be slow to respond, and an ambulance may not always be available.
For more information about traveling in Guyana, visit the Traffic Division of Guyana's National Police Force website.
Air Travel: Airlines typically operate based on demand and can, therefore, delay, reroute, or cancel flights without notice. U.S. citizens should carry medication, valuables, and perishables in carry on lugguage.
Travel in the Interior: The interior of Guyana is underpoliced, emergency services are generally not available, and there is no cellular phone reception in many places. Travelers visiting the interior should consider bringing their own safety gear, such as life jackets, first aid kits, and communications equipment, e.g., satellite phone.
Traffic Laws: The use of seatbelts is required by law. There are no laws concerning the use of child car seats. Anyone on a motorcycle must wear a protective helmet. Talking on the cellular telephone while driving without using a hands-free set is illegal.
Public Transportation: U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using mini buses due to several fatal accidents in recent years. While bandits are known to attack taxis, taxis are generally safer to use to get around town and also to/from the airport. U.S. government personnel may use taxis, but are restricted from taking taxis to/from the airport between 11:30 p.m. and dawn. U.S. citizens should use taxis that are connected to major hotels or are painted yellow, which are registered with the Government of Guyana's licensing office.
See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Guyana’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Guyana, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Guyana’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
100 Young & Duke Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Telephone: +(592) 225-4900/9
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(592) 623-1992
Fax: (592)-225-8497
Email: acsgeorge@state.gov
100 Young & Duke Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Telephone: +(592) 225-4900/9
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(592) 623-1992
Fax: (592)-225-8497
Email: acsgeorge@state.gov
For information concerning travel to Guyana, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Guyana.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
Guyana is not a signatory to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention), nor are there any bilateral agreements in force between Guyana and the United States concerning international parental child abduction.
Legal systems and laws pertaining to custody, divorce, and parental abduction vary widely from country to country. Parental abduction is a crime in Guyana. The Government of Guyana does not maintain a website specifically regarding custody, family law and visitation. Parents are encouraged to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law in Guyana and who can provide legal guidance that is specific to their circumstances.
The Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues provides assistance in cases of international parental child abduction. For U.S. citizen parents whose children have been wrongfully removed to or retained in countries that are not U.S. partners under the Hague Abduction Convention, the Office of Children’s Issues can provide information and resources about country-specific options for pursuing the return of or access to an abducted child. The Office of Children’s Issues may also coordinate with appropriate foreign and U.S. government authorities about the welfare of abducted U.S. citizen children. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance.
Contact information:
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's Issues
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-485-6221
Website: travel.state.gov
Email: AskCI@state.gov
Legal systems and laws pertaining to custody, divorce, and parental abduction vary widely from country to country. Parents are encouraged to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law in Guyana and who can provide legal guidance that is specific to their circumstances.
The Office of Children’s Issues may be able to assist parents seeking access to children who have been wrongfully removed from or retained outside the United States. Parents who are seeking access to children who were not wrongfully removed from or retained outside the United States should contact the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown, Guyana for information and possible assistance.
Neither the Office of Children’s Issues nor consular officials at the U.S. Embassy of Guyana are authorized to provide legal advice.
The U.S. Embassy of Guyana posts a list of attorneys who have identified themselves as willing to represent U.S. citizens.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included in this list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
In Guyana, informal mediation regarding family and child welfare is offered by the Social Welfare Division of the Ministry of Social Services, Community Development and Gender Affairs.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Guyana is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore, when the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force for the United States on April 1, 2008, intercountry adoption processing for Guyana did not change.
To bring an adopted child to United States from Guyana, you must be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. government. The U.S. government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
In addition to these U.S. requirements for adoptive parents, Guyana also has the following requirements for adoptive parents:
In addition to qualifying as an orphan under U.S. immigration law, the child must meet the following requirements imposed by Guyana:
Caution: Prospective adoptive parents should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are available for adoption. In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an orphanage or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, intending that the child return home when possible. In such cases, the birth parent(s) have rarely relinquished their parental rights or consented to the adoption of their child(ren).
GUYANA'S ADOPTION AUTHORITY
Adoption Board, Ministry of Labor, Human Services and Social Security
THE PROCESS
The process for adopting a child from Guyana generally includes the following steps:
NOTE: Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. Learn how.
5. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Adoption: After you finalize the adoption (or gain legal custody) in Guyana, the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) MUST determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be adopted (Form I-600). Learn how.
6. Bringing Your Child Home: Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for several documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S. Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-600 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
Note: Visa issuance after the interview and approval generally takes 24 hours and it will not normally be possible to provide a visa to adoptive parents on the day of the interview.
For adoptions finalized abroad: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
For adoptions finalized in the United States: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when the court in the United States issues the final adoption decree.
* Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.
Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Guyana. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.
To find information about obtaining a visa for Guyana, see the Department of State's Country Specific Information.
Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.
The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in Guyana, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Registration is free and can be done online.
What does Guyana require of the adoptive parents after the adoption?
What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Embassy in Guyana
99/100 Young & Duke Streets
Kingston, Georgetown
Tel: 592-225-7965; 592-225-7966
Fax: 592-227-0221
Email: visageorge@state.gov
Website: https://gy.usembassy.gov/
Guyanese Adoption Authority
Adoption Board, Ministry of Labor, Human Services and Social Security
1 Water and Cornhill Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Tel: 592-225-7450
Fax: 592-227-1308
Embassy of Guyana
2490 Tracy Place, NW,
Washington, D.C. 20008
Tel: 202-265-3834; 202-265-6900
Fax: 202-232-1297
Consulate General of Guyana
370 7th Avenue, Room 402
New York, N.Y. 10001
Tel: 212-947-5115; 212-947-5116
Fax: 212-947-5163
*Guyana also has honorary consulates in Los Angeles, Miami, East Chicago, and Waco(TX).
Office of Children's Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
Website: http://adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | One | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | One | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Please check back for update.
Available from the Registrar General's Office, G.P.O. Building, Georgetown.
Available. Requests for marriage records should be sent to: The Registrar General of Births and Deaths, G.P.O. Building, Georgetown, Guyana. In addition to the names of the parties and the date of marriage, the place of marriage should be included with the request as files are maintained by district. If no record is located, a letter to that effect will be issued by the Registrar.
Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Guyana.
Available from the Supreme Court Registrar, Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown.
Please check back for update.
Please check back for update.
Available. A certificate of character is available from the Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, for residents presently residing there and for past residents. Three passport size photographs, a valid Guyanaese passport and an original birth certificate are required.
Local military service records are available from the Administrative Officer, Records Branch, Guyana Defence Force, Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown. Military records for service in the British Armed Forces can be obtained from the corresponding service headquarters in London. Reference should be made to the detailed instructions for United Kingdom and Northern Ireland as shown under 9 FAM Part IV, Appendix C, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Please check back for update.
Not applicable.
Georgetown, Guyana (Embassy)
All visa categories for all of Guyana. Immigrant visas for nationals of Suriname and French Guiana are processed processed at Embassy Georgetown.
Washington, DC (202) 265-6900 (202) 232-1297
New York, NY (212) 947-5110 (212) 947-5111 (646) 915-0237
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
Six Months
One page for entry stamp
No
Suggested
None
None
100 Young & Duke Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Telephone: +(592) 225-4900/9
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(592) 623-1992
Fax: (592)-225-8497
Email: acsgeorge@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Guyana for information on U.S.-Guyana relations.
Visit the Embassy of Guyana website and the Ministry of Home Affairs website for the most current visa information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Guyana.
Information about dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs information can be found on our websites.
U.S. citizens should remain alert and exercise particular caution in the neighborhoods of Agricola, Buxton, Stabroek, and Bourda; in and around the National Park; and along the sea wall due to criminal activity. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid walking in Georgetown alone and after dark.
Crime: Criminal activity, including murder and armed robbery, is common in Guyana. Armed robberies can occur in businesses, shopping districts, and in hotels. If you are staying in a hotel, use caution when opening the room doors and keep all valuables in the hotel safe.
Petty crimes such as pick pocketing, purse snatching, assault, and robbery can occur in all areas of Georgetown, particularly, in the general area of Stabroek Market and behind Bourda Market. Safeguard your personal property when shopping in these markets.
While local law enforcement authorities are cooperative, they lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. U.S. citizens who are victims of crime should contact the local police and the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown.
Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. These goods are illegal in the United States and cannot be brought into the country.
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should contact the local police and the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown.
Report crimes to the local police at + (592)-225-2700, 226-4585 or + (592)-227-6123, and contact the U.S. Embassy at + (592)-225-4900/9. The local equivalent to the "911" emergency line in Guyana is 911.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:
LGBTI Travelers: The Constitution of Guyana defines marriage as a legal union between a man and a woman. There is no legal protection from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity under Guyanese law.
Consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Guyana for men, and it is not uncommon for the local police to use the law to intimidate men who are gay or perceived to be gay. There are no laws concerning same-sex sexual relations between women. Crossdressing is also illegal if done “for an improper purpose.” While this clause has not explicitly been defined by legislation or judicial decisions, the common understanding is that it refers to prostitution.
See our LGBTI Travel Information page and Section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: The Guyana Constitution mandates the state to take measures to protect persons with disabilities, but there is no law that mandates provision of access for such persons. There is also a lack of appropriate infrastructure that provides access to both public and private facilities.
Illegal Drugs: Travelers to the United States from Guyana have found narcotics planted in their luggage, both in bags registered under their names and in items they were carrying for others. U.S. citizens should carry items that are personally purchased and packed, and ensure that no additional bags are registered in their name. Drug laws in Guyana are strict, pre-trial detention can last for years, and final sentences are lengthy.
Drinking Water: The water supply system throughout Guyana may be contaminated. U.S. citizens should treat or boil water before consumption, or purchase bottled water.
Changing Currency and Credit Card Use: Credit cards are only accepted in limited locations in Georgetown. Stolen PIN data is common when credit cards or ATM cards are used. U.S. citizens should only exchange currency with banks, hotels, or licensed money exchange houses (“cambios”).
Firearms: Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection web site for information on importing firearms into the United States.
Wildlife: Many plants and animals in Guyana are globally threatened or are endangered species protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). An export permit is required by the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture in order to take an exotic animal or plant out of Guyana, and an import permit is required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in order to bring an exotic animal or plant into the United States.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Medical care in Guyana is sparse, low in quality, and inconsistent. Emergency care and hospitalization for major medical illnesses or surgery are limited due to lack of trained specialists and poor sanitation.
Ambulance service is limited to transportation without any medical care and is frequently not available for emergencies. In the event of an emergency, the number for an ambulance is 913, but this number is not always operational and an ambulance may not be available.
Travelers should carry and use CDC recommended insect repellents containing either 20 percent DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535, which will help diminish bites from mosquitoes as well as ticks, fleas, chiggers, etc., some of which may also carry infectious diseases.
HIV/AIDS: The HIV epidemic is disproportionate, with an elevated burden of disease among high risk populations such as commercial sex workers, men who have sex with men, and transgender persons. In addition, HIV continues to affect the productive sector of the population, with the highest number of reported HIV cases among persons 25-49 years old.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with medication, check with the Government of Guyana to ensure the medication is legal in Guyana. Always, carry your medication in original packaging and/or with your doctor’s prescription.
The following diseases are prevelant:
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions in Guyana differ significantly than those in the United States. U.S. citizens should exercise caution when driving in Guyana and avoid driving after dark. If an accident occurs, call 911 for the police and 913 for an ambulance. U.S. citizens are reminded that these numbers may not always be operational, that the police may be slow to respond, and an ambulance may not always be available.
For more information about traveling in Guyana, visit the Traffic Division of Guyana's National Police Force website.
Air Travel: Airlines typically operate based on demand and can, therefore, delay, reroute, or cancel flights without notice. U.S. citizens should carry medication, valuables, and perishables in carry on lugguage.
Travel in the Interior: The interior of Guyana is underpoliced, emergency services are generally not available, and there is no cellular phone reception in many places. Travelers visiting the interior should consider bringing their own safety gear, such as life jackets, first aid kits, and communications equipment, e.g., satellite phone.
Traffic Laws: The use of seatbelts is required by law. There are no laws concerning the use of child car seats. Anyone on a motorcycle must wear a protective helmet. Talking on the cellular telephone while driving without using a hands-free set is illegal.
Public Transportation: U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using mini buses due to several fatal accidents in recent years. While bandits are known to attack taxis, taxis are generally safer to use to get around town and also to/from the airport. U.S. government personnel may use taxis, but are restricted from taking taxis to/from the airport between 11:30 p.m. and dawn. U.S. citizens should use taxis that are connected to major hotels or are painted yellow, which are registered with the Government of Guyana's licensing office.
See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Guyana’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Guyana, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Guyana’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
100 Young & Duke Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Telephone: +(592) 225-4900/9
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(592) 623-1992
Fax: (592)-225-8497
Email: acsgeorge@state.gov
100 Young & Duke Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Telephone: +(592) 225-4900/9
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(592) 623-1992
Fax: (592)-225-8497
Email: acsgeorge@state.gov
For information concerning travel to Guyana, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Guyana.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
Guyana is not a signatory to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention), nor are there any bilateral agreements in force between Guyana and the United States concerning international parental child abduction.
Legal systems and laws pertaining to custody, divorce, and parental abduction vary widely from country to country. Parental abduction is a crime in Guyana. The Government of Guyana does not maintain a website specifically regarding custody, family law and visitation. Parents are encouraged to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law in Guyana and who can provide legal guidance that is specific to their circumstances.
The Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues provides assistance in cases of international parental child abduction. For U.S. citizen parents whose children have been wrongfully removed to or retained in countries that are not U.S. partners under the Hague Abduction Convention, the Office of Children’s Issues can provide information and resources about country-specific options for pursuing the return of or access to an abducted child. The Office of Children’s Issues may also coordinate with appropriate foreign and U.S. government authorities about the welfare of abducted U.S. citizen children. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance.
Contact information:
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's Issues
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-485-6221
Website: travel.state.gov
Email: AskCI@state.gov
Legal systems and laws pertaining to custody, divorce, and parental abduction vary widely from country to country. Parents are encouraged to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law in Guyana and who can provide legal guidance that is specific to their circumstances.
The Office of Children’s Issues may be able to assist parents seeking access to children who have been wrongfully removed from or retained outside the United States. Parents who are seeking access to children who were not wrongfully removed from or retained outside the United States should contact the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown, Guyana for information and possible assistance.
Neither the Office of Children’s Issues nor consular officials at the U.S. Embassy of Guyana are authorized to provide legal advice.
The U.S. Embassy of Guyana posts a list of attorneys who have identified themselves as willing to represent U.S. citizens.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included in this list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
In Guyana, informal mediation regarding family and child welfare is offered by the Social Welfare Division of the Ministry of Social Services, Community Development and Gender Affairs.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Guyana is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore, when the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force for the United States on April 1, 2008, intercountry adoption processing for Guyana did not change.
To bring an adopted child to United States from Guyana, you must be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. government. The U.S. government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
In addition to these U.S. requirements for adoptive parents, Guyana also has the following requirements for adoptive parents:
In addition to qualifying as an orphan under U.S. immigration law, the child must meet the following requirements imposed by Guyana:
Caution: Prospective adoptive parents should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are available for adoption. In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an orphanage or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, intending that the child return home when possible. In such cases, the birth parent(s) have rarely relinquished their parental rights or consented to the adoption of their child(ren).
GUYANA'S ADOPTION AUTHORITY
Adoption Board, Ministry of Labor, Human Services and Social Security
THE PROCESS
The process for adopting a child from Guyana generally includes the following steps:
NOTE: Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. Learn how.
5. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Adoption: After you finalize the adoption (or gain legal custody) in Guyana, the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) MUST determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be adopted (Form I-600). Learn how.
6. Bringing Your Child Home: Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for several documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S. Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-600 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
Note: Visa issuance after the interview and approval generally takes 24 hours and it will not normally be possible to provide a visa to adoptive parents on the day of the interview.
For adoptions finalized abroad: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
For adoptions finalized in the United States: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when the court in the United States issues the final adoption decree.
* Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.
Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Guyana. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.
To find information about obtaining a visa for Guyana, see the Department of State's Country Specific Information.
Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.
The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in Guyana, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Registration is free and can be done online.
What does Guyana require of the adoptive parents after the adoption?
What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Embassy in Guyana
99/100 Young & Duke Streets
Kingston, Georgetown
Tel: 592-225-7965; 592-225-7966
Fax: 592-227-0221
Email: visageorge@state.gov
Website: https://gy.usembassy.gov/
Guyanese Adoption Authority
Adoption Board, Ministry of Labor, Human Services and Social Security
1 Water and Cornhill Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Tel: 592-225-7450
Fax: 592-227-1308
Embassy of Guyana
2490 Tracy Place, NW,
Washington, D.C. 20008
Tel: 202-265-3834; 202-265-6900
Fax: 202-232-1297
Consulate General of Guyana
370 7th Avenue, Room 402
New York, N.Y. 10001
Tel: 212-947-5115; 212-947-5116
Fax: 212-947-5163
*Guyana also has honorary consulates in Los Angeles, Miami, East Chicago, and Waco(TX).
Office of Children's Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
Website: http://adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | One | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | One | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | One | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Please check back for update.
Available from the Registrar General's Office, G.P.O. Building, Georgetown.
Available. Requests for marriage records should be sent to: The Registrar General of Births and Deaths, G.P.O. Building, Georgetown, Guyana. In addition to the names of the parties and the date of marriage, the place of marriage should be included with the request as files are maintained by district. If no record is located, a letter to that effect will be issued by the Registrar.
Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Guyana.
Available from the Supreme Court Registrar, Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown.
Please check back for update.
Please check back for update.
Available. A certificate of character is available from the Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, for residents presently residing there and for past residents. Three passport size photographs, a valid Guyanaese passport and an original birth certificate are required.
Local military service records are available from the Administrative Officer, Records Branch, Guyana Defence Force, Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown. Military records for service in the British Armed Forces can be obtained from the corresponding service headquarters in London. Reference should be made to the detailed instructions for United Kingdom and Northern Ireland as shown under 9 FAM Part IV, Appendix C, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
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Not applicable.
Georgetown, Guyana (Embassy)
All visa categories for all of Guyana. Immigrant visas for nationals of Suriname and French Guiana are processed processed at Embassy Georgetown.
Washington, DC (202) 265-6900 (202) 232-1297
New York, NY (212) 947-5110 (212) 947-5111 (646) 915-0237
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.
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