Families are seen completing remittances transactions at one of the many stores that offer Remittance services from the United States to Guatemala, in San Martin Jilotepeque, Chimaltenango, in the western Guatemalan highlands. Services for migrant families include, in addition to sending and receiving remittances, video calls to communicate with their loved ones who have migrated and are working in the United States. Despite easy access to the internet and mobile devices around the world, in some parts of Guatemala, people must hire video calling services due to their lack of income to purchase a smartphone with internet access. Remittances play a significant role in the Guatemalan economy, contributing a substantial portion of the country's GDP. In 2023, Guatemalan received $19.804 billion in remittances. This represents a significant increase over the years, with the recent peak in 2023 being nearly 19% of GDP. Remittances are a major source of foreign income for Guatemala, surpassing foreign direct investment and official development assistance. They are a crucial source of income for many Guatemalan households, particularly those in poverty. Remittances represent a large portion of Guatemala's GDP, indicating their vital role in the national economy. Remittances contribute to reducing poverty and improving living standards, particularly in areas like housing, education, and healthcare. A large number of Guatemalans living abroad, especially in the United States, contribute to the significant remittance inflows. Guatemalan immigration to the US has a complex history, with a significant increase in migration since the 1960s, driven by factors like civil unrest, economic hardship and criminal violence. While some immigrants arrive legally through visas like the H-2 program for temporary work, a substantial portion of Guatemalans in the US are undocumented. The US Census data shows a notable increase in the Guatemalan population in the US over the years, indicating a rise in overall migration, even if legal immigration may have slowed. Gang violence in Guatemala is a major factor contributing to migration in the past 20 years, with many seeking refuge in the United States. In the past 20 years, there has been a significant flow of Guatemalan immigrants to the United States, with about 1.1 million immigrants in 2019 and 2021. Deportations from the U.S. to Guatemala have also increased, with an estimated 1,000 people deported per week in 2022. In 2022, Guatemala received around seven deportation flights a week, with the government stating it could accommodate a maximum of 20 weekly flights.
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